Permitting & Licensing
A Step-by-Step Guide for Business Registration & Compliance
Starting a business in Tooele County is a straightforward process with clear business registration, permitting, and compliance guidelines. Whether launching a new company, expanding an existing business, or relocating to Tooele, we help you navigate local regulations quickly and efficiently.
Follow this step-by-step guide to register your business, obtain necessary permits, and ensure compliance with local and state laws.
Step 1: Choose Your Business Structure
Before registering, determine your business entity type:
- Sole Proprietorship – A single-owner business with minimal regulatory requirements.
- Limited Liability Company (LLC) – Offers liability protection with flexible tax options.
- Corporation (C-Corp or S-Corp) – Best for larger businesses or those planning to raise investment capital.
- Partnership – Two or more owners sharing business responsibilities and profits.
Need help deciding? The Utah Small Business Development Center (SBDC) offers free business consulting to guide you through entity selection.
Step 2: Register Your Business with the State of Utah
All businesses in Tooele County must be registered with the Utah Division of Corporations and Commercial Code.
- Register your business name at [OneStop.Utah.gov](https://onestop.utah.gov/).
- Obtain a State Business License and Entity Number.
- Register for State and Federal Employer Identification Numbers (EIN) if hiring employees.
Step 3: Obtain a Tooele County Business License
Most businesses operating in Tooele County must obtain a county or city business license. The licensing process depends on your business location:
- Apply with the local city office where your business is located.
- Grantsville City
- https://www.grantsvilleut.gov/departments/business_licensing/index.php
- Tooele City
- Tooele County
Contact your city or county office to confirm specific requirements and application fees.
Step 4: Obtain Required Permits & Zoning Approvals
Depending on your business type, you may need additional permits to comply with local zoning laws, health regulations, or environmental guidelines.
- Zoning & Land Use Approval – Verify your business location is properly zoned for your operations through the Tooele County Community Development Department.
- Building Permits – If constructing or renovating a business space, obtain building and safety permits.
- Grantsville
- Tooele City
- https://www.tooelecity.gov/services/community_development/building_safety_division.php
- Tooele County
- https://tooeleco.gov/departments/development/building_permits.php
- Health & Food Permits – Required for restaurants, food service providers, and health-related businesses through the Tooele County Health Department.
- Fire Safety Inspections – Commercial buildings may require fire safety inspections and compliance approval from the local fire department.
Need assistance? Our Economic Development team can help you streamline approvals and navigate the permitting process.
Step 5: Understand Tax & Compliance Obligations
All businesses must comply with state and local tax laws. Ensure you are properly registered for:
- Utah Sales Tax License (if selling taxable goods/services) – Apply through the Utah State Tax Commission.
- Payroll & Withholding Taxes – Register with the Utah Department of Workforce Services (DWS) if hiring employees.
- Industry-Specific Licenses – Certain industries (e.g., contractors, alcohol sales, childcare) require additional state licenses.
Check with the Utah Department of Commerce if your business requires a special state license.
Step 6: Open Your Business & Stay Compliant
Once you’ve secured all necessary licenses and permits, you’re ready to open for business! To maintain compliance:
- Renew your business license annually as required.
- Stay updated on zoning changes that may affect your location.
- File state and federal tax returns according to business requirements.
Need ongoing support? Tooele County Economic Development provides resources, training, and networking opportunities to help your business grow and thrive.