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1. I know what kind of business I want to open. What do I do first?

Your first stop should be the Zoning Official's office, located on the lower level of the Town Hall, to register your business, secure a zoning certificate and to fill out a Certificate of Ownership to declare a trade name. Then visit the Town Clerk's office for all license forms and information on how to proceed. You may want to familiarize yourself with the common forms and overall process by visiting the Forms page of this website.

We've created a "New Business Process Map" to aid you in the process of starting your new business. New Business Process Map (PDF)

2. How do I obtain a Federal Tax ID number and a sales tax permit?

The Employer Identification Number (EIN), commonly referred to as a Federal Tax ID Number, is used to identify a business entity. Generally, businesses need an EIN. You may apply for an EIN in various ways, including online. This is a free service offered by the Internal Revenue Service. The EIN should be applied for early on in the process, as you will need to supply the number on various forms and applications. Contact the State of Rhode Island Division of Taxation to obtain a sales tax permit to make sales in Rhode Island. This should be done prior to obtaining business license applications. IRS website

3. When should I apply for my business license(s)?

Application should be made no later than three months in advance of the desired date for opening a business. All inquiries should be directed to the Town Clerk's office to determine if a license is required, if licensing board approval is required, if there is a need for a public hearing and what approvals are required from other town officials.

4. How do I find out if my future business location is in a properly zoned area?

The Zoning Official’s Office, located on the lower level of the Town Hall, maintains the maps showing the various business zones. The Town’s GIS (Geographical Information System) maps are a valuable tool and available online. Parcel maps, zoning areas, aerial views are all available, free of charge.

5. Must I incorporate before I complete a Certificate of Ownership? How do I do that?

If a business is to be incorporated, the process should be started before filling out the Certificate of Ownership. That will ensure the information provided on the Certificate of Ownership is accurate. Contact the Secretary of State's office-Corporations Division to get assistance with the process.

6. Do I need to obtain approvals from authorities before I appear before the Licensing Board?

If your application is one that requires Licensing Board approval, approvals of proper authorities are not required prior to appearance before the Licensing Board, but are required in order to receive your license.