Business license in New York, NY
New York doesn't require a general business license for most businesses — but specific activities and locations still need permits. No general license fee; fees vary by the specific DCWP or agency license required for your industry
No general city business license; industry-specific licenses from the Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP) and other city agencies. No general license fee; fees vary by the specific DCWP or agency license required for your industry
Home-based businesses
No general license for home-based businesses; check NYC zoning home occupation rules and whether your activity needs a DCWP or other agency license.
Other common requirements
- Industry-specific city licenses (use the NYC Business Step by Step tool / License Lookup)
- Business name certificate (DBA) with the County Clerk for sole proprietors/partnerships, or with NYS Department of State for entities
- NYS sales tax Certificate of Authority if selling taxable goods or services
- Certificate of Occupancy / zoning compliance for commercial space
Local rules depend on what you do and where. Use this as a starting point, then confirm with NYC Department of Consumer and Worker Protection / NYC Business (Small Business Services): official page.