Permit & License Checklist
Navigate El Paso's permitting process with confidence. This comprehensive checklist covers all the permits and licenses you'll need to operate legally in El Paso, Texas.
General Requirements (All Businesses)
Business License
City of El Paso
Required for all businesses operating within city limits. Renewed annually.
Cost
$50-$200 depending on business type
Processing Time
2-4 weeks
Certificate of Occupancy
City of El Paso Planning & Inspections
Certifies that your business location complies with building codes and zoning regulations.
Cost
Varies by property size
Processing Time
4-6 weeks
Sales Tax Permit
Texas Comptroller
Required if you sell tangible goods or taxable services in Texas.
Cost
Free
Processing Time
Immediate (online)
Employer Identification Number (EIN)
IRS
Federal tax ID required for businesses with employees or certain business structures.
Cost
Free
Processing Time
Immediate (online)
Industry-Specific Permits
Food & Beverage
- Food Service Permit (El Paso Health Department)
- Food Handler Certification (all employees)
- Alcohol Beverage License (TABC - if serving alcohol)
- Health Inspection Certificate
- Fire Safety Inspection
Retail
- Retail Sales Permit
- Sign Permit (if installing signage)
- Fire Safety Inspection
- Building Permit (for renovations)
Construction & Contracting
- Contractor License (Texas Department of Licensing)
- Building Permits (per project)
- Electrical/Plumbing License (if applicable)
- Workers Compensation Insurance
- Surety Bond
Healthcare
- Professional License (Texas Medical Board)
- DEA Registration (if prescribing)
- HIPAA Compliance Certification
- Medical Waste Disposal Permit
- Facility License (Texas HHS)
Personal Services
- Cosmetology/Barber License (TDLR)
- Facility License
- Health Inspection
- Fire Safety Inspection
Home-Based Business
- Home Occupation Permit
- Zoning Compliance Verification
- HOA Approval (if applicable)
- Business License
Zoning Requirements
El Paso's zoning regulations determine what types of businesses can operate in specific areas. Verify your location's zoning before signing a lease or purchasing property.
Commercial (C-1, C-2, C-3)
Allowed Uses: Retail stores, offices, restaurants, and service businesses
Common Restrictions: Limited hours of operation in some areas, parking requirements
Industrial (I-1, I-2)
Allowed Uses: Manufacturing, warehousing, distribution centers
Common Restrictions: Environmental compliance, noise restrictions, truck access requirements
Mixed-Use
Allowed Uses: Combination of residential and commercial activities
Common Restrictions: Specific use restrictions, design standards, parking ratios
Residential (R-1, R-2, R-3)
Allowed Uses: Limited home-based businesses only
Common Restrictions: No customer traffic, no signage, no employees (in most cases)
Step-by-Step Application Process
Verify Zoning Compliance
Contact El Paso Planning & Inspections to confirm your business type is allowed at your chosen location.
(915) 212-1553
Obtain Federal & State IDs
Apply for EIN (IRS) and register with Texas Comptroller for state tax permits.
IRS.gov & Comptroller.Texas.gov
Apply for City Business License
Submit application to City of El Paso Tax Office with required documentation.
(915) 212-1040
Schedule Required Inspections
Arrange health, fire, and building inspections as needed for your business type.
Varies by department
Obtain Industry-Specific Licenses
Apply for professional licenses or specialized permits required for your industry.
Varies by industry
Display Permits & Licenses
Post all required permits and licenses visibly at your business location.
N/A
Important Contacts
City of El Paso Tax Office
Business licenses and permits
(915) 212-1040
Planning & Inspections
Zoning and building permits
(915) 212-1553
Health Department
Food service and health permits
(915) 212-6520
Fire Department
Fire safety inspections
(915) 212-5600