Start a Business in Kansas City

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

✔ 4 permits⏱ 2-6 weeks💰 $50–$200

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Overview

Starting a business in Kansas City requires a Business License through the Revenue Division. Base fee: $50–$200. No general state business license. KC spans MO/KS border.

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: $50–$200 depending on permits and inspections.

General Business$50–$200

Restaurant$100–$500

Contact

Revenue Division

Phone: 816-513-1313

Apply Online →

Common Mistakes

⚠ Spans MO/KS border — PermitBoard covers MO side

⚠ Kansas City earnings tax (1%) on individuals and businesses

⚠ Two-state metro creates unique tax situations

⚠ KCMO Revenue Division handles business licenses

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 Kansas City business license guide →