Start a Business in Baltimore

Permits, costs, timeline, and step-by-step requirements.

✔ 4 permits⏱ 2-6 weeks💰 $15–$150

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Overview

Starting a business in Baltimore requires a Business License through the Department of Finance, Business License Division. Base fee: $15–$150. Trade name registration required. No general state business license. Baltimore is independent city.

Required Permits

✓Federal: EIN from IRS (free, instant online)
✓State: LLC/Corp filing + seller's permit/sales tax registration
✓County: health department permit + fire inspection
✓City: business licence/tax certificate

Step-by-Step Process

1

Federal: EIN from IRS (free, instant online)

2

State: LLC/Corp filing + seller's permit/sales tax registration

3

County: health department permit + fire inspection

4

City: business licence/tax certificate

Costs

Estimated total: $15–$150 depending on permits and inspections.

General Business$15–$150
Restaurant$50–$500

Contact

Department of Finance, Business License Division

Phone: 410-396-4940

Apply Online →

Common Mistakes

⚠ Independent city — NOT in any county
⚠ Baltimore City Health Department (not county)
⚠ Trader's license system for some businesses
⚠ Enterprise zone tax credits available
⚠ Maryland requires trade name registration

Choose Your Business Type

RestaurantFood TruckBarber ShopRetail StoreCoffee ShopBar / NightclubGym / Fitness StudioNail SalonCannabis DispensaryDog GroomingBakeryCleaning ServiceDaycare CenterAuto Repair Shop

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