Arizona doesn't require a state-level business license. However, you'll need to visit the city or county municipal office to register your company at the local level. You can also find out about occupational licenses and permits you might need depending on the type of business.
Maricopa County Mesa / County
A completed Business License Application is required for the following types of businesses: restaurant, medical office, general office, entertainment, auto service, consumer service, contractor, manufacturing, service, distributor, and retail sales.
Maricopa County does not issue or require a General Business license for unincorporated areas of the County. If you are located in an incorporated city or town, check with your municipality. For more information, the Arizona Department of Revenue provides a Licensing Guide for obtaining business licenses in Arizona.
You may need a food facility permit done through your county as well as a separate public health permit. Some areas allow for you to apply online, but these permits typically require restaurateurs to submit their detailed plans for the space for approval.
Mesa (/ˈmeɪsə/ MAY-sə) is a city in Maricopa County, Arizona, United States.
You might also be wondering, “How long can you operate a business without a license?” Judging by real-world examples, you could be shut down in as little as 60 days. In one instance, a legal entity missed the renewal notice for a seemingly minor business license.