Start a Business in San Antonio

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

✔ 4 permits⏱ 2-6 weeks💰 $0–$150

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Overview

Starting a business in San Antonio requires a No general business license — 53 industry-specific categories through the Development Services Department (DSD). Base fee: $0–$150. 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

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: $0–$150 depending on permits and inspections.

General Business$0–$150

Restaurant$50–$500

Contact

Development Services Department (DSD)

Phone: 210-207-0500

1901 S Alamo St, San Antonio, TX 78204

Apply Online →

Common Mistakes

⚠ NO general business license — but 53 industry-specific license categories

⚠ Restaurant faces 12 separate fees totaling ~$2,477

⚠ City website rated 2/5 for usability by independent study

⚠ CO only required for change of zoning use — same-use tenants may skip

⚠ Home-based businesses generally can operate without city permits

⚠ Peddlers/vendors need SAPD-issued ID badge

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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