Licenses & Permits

Specialized Small Business Center Resources

• Small Business Resource Guide
  Prepared by the Memphis Chamber. This publication provides information and contact numbers that would be helpful to anyone interested in starting a business. In the Resource Guide, information on getting a Federal ID Number is found as well as sign ordinance regulations, health department requirements, and tax obligations of a new business.
• Steps to Starting a Business in Memphis & Shelby County
  This publication, compiled by the Shelby County Clerk's office, provides potential business owners with a list of the local government agencies they may have to contact to set up a new business.

WWW Resources

• Business.USA.Gov
  Business.usa.gov is the official business link to the U.S. Government. Included is information about grants and loans and other special topics. From this page there is also a link to licensing and permit requirements in Tennessee and other states, and a guide to regulations covering particular industries.
• Department of Commerce & Insurance - Regulatory Boards
  This website provides information on how to acquire and maintain a professional license. From accountants and hairdressers to private detectives and real estate appraisers, this website will outline the necessary steps and forms for those professions required to be licensed to do business in Tennessee. This department also regulates the licensed professions and will revoke licenses of businesses guilty of violating the laws that govern them. The website is searchable and an archive of disciplinary proceedings is maintained.