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Starting a Business

How do I start a business in Fairfax County?
The Fairfax County Department of Tax Administration (DTA) has a terrific FAQ for new businesses on its Web site. You also may want to attend one of the FCEDA's monthly workshops -- "Entrepreneurship 101: Starting a Business in Fairfax County."

What licenses and permits are required to run a business in Fairfax County?
When you start a business in the county, you will need to obtain a business license -- which in Fairfax County is called a Business, Professional and Occupational License (BPOL). Contact the Fairfax County DTA at 703-222-8234 or visit the DTA Web site for details. Other permits and licenses also may be required, depending on what type of business you plan to run and whether or not you are operating under a trade name. You also must register your business with the state.

What are the state’s requirements for operating a business in Fairfax County?
Both new and existing business owners must register with the state for tax payment purposes. On the Web, visit the Virginia Department of Taxation’s VATAX Online Web site. Click on the “Businesses” portion of the state image and then choose the “Register a New Business Online” option. You'll be taken to iReg, the state’s online business registration system, where you can complete the necessary forms electronically.

What if I want to become an incorporated business in Fairfax County?
You will need to register and file the appropriate paperwork with Virginia's State Corporation Commission (SCC). For specifics, visit the Office of the Clerk's section of the SCC Web site, which discusses incorporation requirements.

I am interested in running a home-based business in Fairfax County. How do I go about getting licensed?
In addition to obtaining a BPOL license, businesses located at residential addresses must obtain a Home Occupation Permit or Non-Residential Use Permit from the Zoning Permit Review Branch of the Fairfax County Department of Planning and Zoning, Zoning Administration Division. Permits are issued after certain zoning requirements are met. For further information, contact the Zoning Permit Review Branch at 12055 Government Center Parkway, Fairfax, Virginia 22035, or telephone 703-222-1082.

Can I apply for a business license online?
No, you must apply in person or by mail. However, all the county forms you need are available for download in PDF format from the DTA Web site. Scroll down until you get to the section called "Business Tax Forms."

What are the tax requirements for a business in Fairfax County?
Visit the Tax page of this Web site for information on taxes.

How can the FCEDA help a small, start-up company?
We can provide information on how and where to get your business plan reviewed, provide a list of organizations that may be able to provide funding, provide class and seminar information for small businesses, and in some cases, introduce you to venture capitalists if your organization needs additional funds.

Where do I find more information on starting a business in Fairfax County?