Start a Business in Boulder

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

4 permits2-6 weeks💰 $50–$500

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Overview

Starting a business in Boulder requires a Business License through the Tax & License Division. Base fee: $50–$500. No general state business license. Colorado has 70+ home-rule cities that collect their own sales tax separately from state. State license does NOT cover home-rule cities.

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: $50–$500 depending on permits and inspections.

Contact

Tax & License Division

Phone: 303-441-3050

Apply Online →

Common Mistakes

Home-rule city — own sales tax
CU Boulder campus
Pearl Street Mall — strict commercial standards
Boulder County Health
Outdoor recreation industry hub
Height restrictions — no tall buildings

Choose Your Business Type

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

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