Your Nevada State Business License is not enough to operate. You also need a license from the local government where your business is located. In the Las Vegas valley, that is where many new owners get confused.
Step 1: find out who your local government is
A "Las Vegas" mailing address does not mean you are in the City of Las Vegas. Large areas like Paradise, Spring Valley, Enterprise, Winchester and Sunrise Manor are unincorporated Clark County. Your license depends on the jurisdiction:
- City of Las Vegas: businesses inside city limits
- City of Henderson and City of North Las Vegas: each has its own business license office
- Clark County Department of Business License: unincorporated areas of the county
The county's online parcel and address tools can tell you which jurisdiction your address belongs to.
Step 2: get your state registration first
Local offices usually ask for your Nevada business ID or State Business License number, so register with the Secretary of State first.
Step 3: check zoning and the type of business
- Home-based businesses are allowed in many areas but may have rules about clients, signs and employees at the home.
- Commercial locations may need zoning approval, inspections and a certificate of occupancy before you open.
- Regulated activities such as food, liquor, childcare, cosmetology or construction need extra permits or a state professional license.
Step 4: apply and renew
Each jurisdiction sets its own fees and renewal schedule, often based on the type of business and, in some cases, your gross revenue. Put the renewal date on your calendar next to your state Annual List.
Common mistakes we see
- Getting a City of Las Vegas license when the address is in Clark County
- Working from home without checking home-occupation rules
- Forgetting the professional license for licensed trades
- Letting the local license expire while the LLC stays active