Start a Business in Spokane

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 Spokane requires a Business License through the City of Spokane Business License Office. Base fee: Varies by type. Master Business License system is unique — one application for multiple registrations. But does NOT cover all city licenses.

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 of Spokane Business License Office

Phone: 509-625-6070

Apply Online →

Common Mistakes

⚠ WA Master Business License required at state level

⚠ Separate Spokane city business license also needed

⚠ Spokane Regional Health District for food permits

⚠ Eastern WA — different market than Seattle

⚠ Washington has no state income tax but requires a Business & Occupation (B&O) tax registration

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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