Every business is different, and the requirements and steps necessary to ensure you are doing everything properly can be daunting. When you don’t know your DBA from your EIN or your permits from your sales tax you can lose your mind. Just remember, we’re here to help you get on the right track! Most businesses begin with a business plan. If you need help preparing one, here is a reference with an online tool to assist offered by the Small Business Administration. You can also find local resources in the SBA Alabama Resource Guide.
Each page in this section holds information related to the most commonly asked questions, starting from obtaining your Assumed Name or "Doing Business As" (DBA) to getting an Employer Identification Number (EIN, like a social security number for businesses) and why it’s important. We also include information regarding training, financial assistance, and finding other business resources. Just click on the tabs below to find helpful documents, resources, and tools needed to help you start your business.
Did you know there are two different types of business licenses depending on where you open your business? Business location in a traditional office space, storefront, or industrial area must obtain different approvals and submit a Non-Residential (Commercial or Industrial) Business License application. If you are opening a business that you will run from your residence, then you must complete the Home-Based Business License application. Click on the appropriate tab below to learn the steps involved.
Verify the zoning of the location you choose through our interactive GIS mapping portal. Also, verify the regulations for the industrial zone you want to locate. Then visit the Planning Department to ask any questions you may have about the proposed use. Then complete Step 2, BEFORE you enter a purchase or lease agreement for any property and submit to the Planning Department. If you don’t have a physical business location in Madison but have commercial dealings, please go to Step 3.
The Zoning Compliance Certificate application does not commit you to a business venture location but will provide you with confirmation the business can be operated at the location and what the development regulations and building requirements will be for that specific address. This is a required application approval for obtaining a new business license or a new location. The review includes Planning, Building, Engineering, Fire, and in some cases Madison Utilities. Some projects may require a site visit to better understand the project and identify compliance requirements prior to final approval. You can submit your application to the Planning Department to begin the process which takes about 3-days for approval.
Once Step 2 is complete, visit the Revenue Department to complete your Business License application and Supplement. Every business has a NAICS code and if don’t know yours, visit this link for the NAICS code Don’t forget to provide your public business phone number, website, and social media links so we can help you market your business! The Economic Development Department will assist you in promoting your business by ’Liking’ your social media links and sharing your events and promotions. We will also list your business on our Find More Madison website!
The Madison Industrial Development Board (IDB) can provide incentives to qualifying industries. To learn more, visit the IDB Incentives.
If you are modifying an existing building for your business, you can obtain your building permits either online or through the Building Department. If you are building a new building, please submit a site plan application and all associated documents for approval through the Planning Department.
Review the zoning ordinance article about home occupations to understand what is permissible for a home occupation.
If you are starting a home-based business, please submit this new Home-Business application and submit it to the Planning Department to begin the process. If you do not own the residence, you will be required to provide a signed letter from the property owner or leasing agent with your application that gives you permission to operate the requested business from the residence.
Visit the Revenue Department to complete your Business License application and Business Survey. Don’t forget to provide your public business phone number, website, and social media links! The Economic Development staff will assist you in promoting your business by ’Liking’ your social media links and sharing your events and promotions. Some home-based businesses will even qualify for spots on Find More Madison. Every business has a NAICS code and if don’t know yours, visit this link NAICS code?
Verify the zoning of the location you choose through our interactive GIS mapping portal. Also, verify the regulations for the commercial zone you want to locate. Then visit the Planning Department to ask any questions you may have about the proposed use. Then complete Step 2, BEFORE you enter a purchase or lease agreement for any property and submit to the Planning Department. If you don’t have a physical business location in Madison but have commercial dealings, please go to Step 3.
The Zoning Compliance Certificate application does not commit you to a business venture location but will provide you with confirmation the business can be operated at the location and what the development regulations and building requirements will be for that specific address. This is a required application approval for obtaining a new business license or for a new location. The review includes Planning, Building, Engineering, Fire, and in some cases Madison Utilities. Some projects may require a site visit to better understand the project and identify compliance requirements prior to final approval. You can submit your application to the Planning Department to begin the process which takes about 3-days.
Once Step 2 is complete, visit the Revenue Department to complete your Business License application and Business Survey Supplement. Every business has a NAICS code and if don’t know yours, visit this link NAICS code? Don’t forget to provide your public business phone number, website, and social media links so we can help you market your business! Planning will assist you in promoting your business by ’Liking’ your social media links and sharing your events and promotions. We will also list your business on our Find More Madison website!
If you are modifying an existing building for your business, you can obtain your building permits either online or through the Building Department. If you are building a new building, please submit a site plan application and all associated documents for approval through the Planning Department.