Start a Business in Tempe

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

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

Skip the research

Get your full roadmap instantly

Overview

Starting a business in Tempe requires a Business License through the Tax and License Division. Base fee: Varies by type. No state business license. AZ Business One Stop at businessonestop.az.gov.

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

Tax and License Division

Phone: 480-350-8241

Apply Online →

Common Mistakes

⚠ Maricopa County DEH for health permits

⚠ ASU campus area has specific zoning

⚠ Mill Avenue district restrictions

⚠ TPT license required

⚠ Arizona Transaction Privilege Tax license is required for most retail businesses

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

Get your full permit roadmap

Everything in the right order with links, fees, and timelines.

Get My Roadmap → $29

Read our complete Tempe business license guide →