City of North Las Vegas has distinct steps for creating a business

With an idea and business plan in hand, here is how to make a new business official in North Las Vegas:

-- First, request an application at North Las Vegas City Hall, 2250 Las Vegas Blvd. North, or via tinyurl.com/NLVbizz.

-- Know that it is unlawful to conduct business, even a home-based operation, in the city of North Las Vegas without a business license.

-- Businesses based in the city are required to obtain approval from the Planning & Zoning Department in order to verify if the location meets zoning requirements.

-- It is recommended to contact the Building Safety Division for other requirements related to the proposed business.

-- Any business selling or preparing food will need to apply for a health permit from the Southern Nevada Health District before obtaining a North Las Vegas business license.

-- Every business intending to sell tangible goods requires a State of Nevada sales tax permit from the State of Nevada Department of Taxation. Proof of the permit will be required with the North Las Vegas business license application.

-- Child care licenses are to include a background investigation and City Council approval in addition to city of North Las Vegas Business License Division approval.

-- Contractors must also obtain a Nevada State Contractor's Board license before receiving a North Las Vegas business license.

-- Nonprofit organizations do not need a business license but are asked to register with the city of North Las Vegas Business License Division.

-- Sale or service of alcohol requires a liquor permit.

-- A completed business license application can be submitted in person or by mail to North Las Vegas City Hall. Some applications are required to be delivered in person depending on license classification.

-- License fee is based on classification.

-- All business licenses issued by the city of North Las Vegas are renewed semiannually, and the six-month cycles vary based on classification.

-- Business licenses from previous tenants or owners do not transfer.

-- The Business License Division must be notified if the business' name, address, phone number, business activity or ownership change.

For more information, visit cityofnorthlasvegas.com or call 633-1520.

Contact Centennial and North Las Vegas View reporter Maggie Lillis at mlillis@viewnews.com or 477-3839.