Start a Business in Laredo

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

✔ 4 permits⏱ 2-6 weeks💰 $0 (no city business licence in most TX cities)

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Overview

Starting a business in Laredo requires a No general business license through the Community Development Department. Base fee: $0 (no city business licence in most TX cities). No state business license. No state income tax. Cities vary widely — some require licenses, some don't.

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: $0 (no city business licence in most TX cities) depending on permits and inspections.

Contact

Community Development Department

Phone: 956-795-2675

Apply Online →

Common Mistakes

⚠ US-Mexico border — import/export businesses have federal requirements
⚠ 95% Hispanic population — Spanish-language forms essential
⚠ Webb County for unincorporated areas
⚠ International bridge/customs brokerage businesses common
⚠ Texas has no state income tax but requires a franchise tax (margin tax) filing annually

Choose Your Business Type

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

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