Business Resources
Verify Zoning and Obtain a Business License
Buena Vista makes starting a business in the City easy, with just two simple requirements:
- Complete Business Zoning Verification: Determine whether your business location is zoned appropriately by completing the zoning verification process online. Simply visit our Online Portal [LINK] and submit your application. There is a nominal fee of ten dollars ($10.00) for verification.
If you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to reach out to the Department of Community Development. - Obtain a Business License: Once you’ve verified your zoning, it’s time to obtain your business license from the Commissioner of Revenue by visiting their office. Your business license fee will be calculated based on your first year’s anticipated revenue (gross receipts) and the rate for your specific business classification. The minimum license fee is $30.00.
Be sure to bring the following documents and information:
- Zoning verification
- Your name and the business name
- Business mailing address
- Business location address
- Business phone number
- Federal identification number (Virginia’s Business One Stop) or your Social Security number
- A realistic estimate of your gross receipts for the first year of business
- Photo identification
3. Know your business classification to determine your license fee. Rates vary depending on the nature of your business
| Business Type | Rate |
| Contractor | $0.16/$100 |
| Retail Sales | $0.20/$100 |
| Repair, Personal, Business, and Other Services | $0.36/$100 |
| Financial, Real Estate, and Professional Services | $0.58/$100 |
| Wholesale | $0.05/$100 |
| Telephone & Telegraph Service | $0.005/Gross Receipts |
| Carnivals | $250.00/per day |
| 1-3 Machines | $50.00 |
| Over 3 Machines | $100.00 |
| Peddlers; Itinerant Merchants | $500.00 |
| Tobacco | $10.00 |
| Pistol | $20.00 |
| Distiller, Winery, Brewery, and Beer Wholesaler | $500.00 |
| Wine AND Beer On Premises | $75.00 |
| Wine OR Beer On/Off Premises | $50.00 |
| Wholesale Wine Off Premises | $50.00 |
| Mixed Beverage, Wine, and Beer on Premises | $250.00 |
With these two straightforward steps, you’ll be well on your way to launching your business in Buena Vista, Virginia. If you have any questions or need further assistance, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to help you succeed!
Obtain necessary Permits or Requirements
Before you are finally ready to open your business, it’s essential to ensure that you have all the necessary permits and licenses in place. Below are permits and licenses to consider:
Building and Renovations
If you’re planning to build or renovate a space for your business, you’ll need to navigate the permitting process. This may involve obtaining zoning permits, building permits, signage permits, and other local approvals.
For a full list of required local permits, visit https://bv.sitevision.com/government/departments/community-development/permits/
Professional Licenses
Certain businesses, including contractors, barbers, cosmetologists, real estate agents, auctioneers, and more, are required to be licensed by the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Licenses (DPOR). It’s essential to check whether your profession falls under this category and obtain the necessary licensure before commencing operations.
Permits for Specific Industries
Depending on the nature of your business, you may need additional permits. Businesses are responsible for ensuring that all necessary permits and licenses are obtained. A few examples when additional permits may be required include:
- To serve food – Virginia Department of Health
- To sell or serve alcoholic beverages – Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control
- For child and adult daycare providers – Virginia Social Services Department
- Others to consider
– Virginia Department of Transportation
– Virginia Department of Labor and Industry
– DEQ for Businesses