The City of Raleigh does not require a business license to operate a business within Raleigh City limits.
Depending on the size of your business, it may be best to consult with an attorney before getting started.
Any business that sells Beer or Wine within the Raleigh City limits must obtain a Beer/Wine License before selling any alcoholic beverages.
Please Note: beginning with the 2024/25 license renewal period, all applications and renewals will be processed online, and paper applications will no longer be accepted. All existing and new licensees will be required to create an online account AND apply for a Beer/Wine license for each business location. Please see the instructions below for how to log in to the Raleigh Permit and Development Portal and create the Beer/Wine account.
If you have any questions, contact Revenue Services at: RevenueServices@Raleighnc.gov or 919-996-3200
Register or login to your Permit and Development Portal account.
Apply for Beer/Wine license for each business location.
The Office of Special Events oversees the permitting process for private use of public spaces, outdoor seating, is a liaison to the nightlife industry to ensure a more vibrant and safe community and manages projects of high consequence and public significance requiring coordination with internal and external stakeholders.
Permits are required for all outdoor signs except directional signs, such as exit and entrance signs, and informational signs, such as signs designating restrooms and phones. A Sign Permit is required any time a business wants to display signage or hold an event that includes advertising visible from the public right-of-way.
Zoning regulates land use and development, and all properties in Raleigh are mapped with one or more zoning categories. If you are starting a business, you need to verify that the zoning permits you to operate your business legally on the property. If you operate in a zoning district where your type of business is not permitted, you will be in violation of the City of Raleigh Code of Ordinances and may be fined and required to cease operation.
It is recommended that you do your due diligence by contacting zoning staff on the front end to discuss any requirements. Persons wishing to open a business on a property that is not zoned for the proposed use have the option of petitioning the City for a rezoning. Questions regarding zoning and rezoning can be directed to Planning and Development at 919-996-2682. Additional information about the rezoning process and associated cost are available online.
The City permits you to run a business out of your home as either a Home Occupation or Live-Work accessory use.
A Home Occupation does not allow non-resident employees or customers to visit the premises. There can also be no change to the outward appearance of the home, including signage, and the use may occupy no more than 25% of the dwelling. While no permit is needed to establish a Home Occupation, you are required to adhered to all rules as set forth in Section 6.7.3.D. of the Unified Development Ordinance.
By contrast, Live Work permits up to two (2) non-resident employees and up to five (5) customers to be on the premises at any one time. In addition, changes to the exterior of the home and limited signage are allowed. A Miscellaneous Zoning Permit is needed to establish a Live Work accessory use. More information, including a list of allowable uses, can be found in Section 6.7.3.F. of the Unified Development Ordinance.
There are several different zoning districts which permit businesses. These include Legacy Zoning Districts, Overlay Districts and UDO Zoning Districts. Learn more at the City's zoning page.