Start a Business in Des Moines

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

✔ 4 permits⏱ 2-6 weeks💰 Varies by type

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Overview

Starting a business in Des Moines requires a Business License through the City Clerk's Office. Base fee: Varies by type. No general state business license.

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

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

Costs

Estimated total: Varies by type depending on permits and inspections.

Contact

City Clerk's Office

Phone: 515-283-4500

Apply Online →

Common Mistakes

⚠ State capital

⚠ Polk County health department for food permits

⚠ Insurance industry hub — specific financial services regulations

⚠ Iowa has no general state business license

Choose Your Business Type

Restaurant Food Truck Barber Shop Retail Store Coffee Shop Bar / Nightclub Gym / Fitness Studio Nail Salon Cannabis Dispensary Dog Grooming Bakery Cleaning Service Daycare Center Auto Repair Shop

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Read our complete Des Moines business license guide →