Opening a business is a multi-step process that, without proper planning, can often be complex and costly. Before you launch, it is a good idea to thoroughly research several aspects of your business, including but not limited to the following:

• Develop a marketable business concept
• Identify a target market, product or service customer group
• Determine business location
• Develop a marketing strategy
• Identify operational needs
• Project start-up expenses
• Create projected financial statements for three business years (realistic case, best case, and worst case)
• Research competition
• Select advisors (consultant, lawyer, CPA, etc.)

There are several low-cost or free resources available to assist entrepreneurs in the start-up process including:

• U.S. Small Business Administration: www.sba.gov
• Oklahoma Department of Commerce: www.okcommerce.gov/business
• Oklahoma Small Business Development Center: www.oksbdc.org
• Oklahoma City Score: www.oklahomacity.score.org 

Search for business name availability and register your business name and structure with the Oklahoma Secretary of State

Oklahoma Secretary of State: www.sos.ok.gov

Depending on the nature of your business, you may also consider register your trademark with the federal government.

U.S. Patent and Trademark Office: www.uspto.gov/trademark

Always consider tax implications and legal liabilities as you select the business structure that's right for your business. While it is not required, it is highly recommended that you consult an attorney and/or a CPA for advice as to which legal structure (sole proprietor, general partnership, limited liability company, etc.) best suits your needs. 

Several types of taxes may be levied on businesses including income tax, employment tax, sales tax, etc. For state taxes and to obtain a sales tax I.D. number, visit the Oklahoma Tax Commission. 

Oklahoma Tax Commission: www.ok.gov/tax

All forms of legal structure, except sole proprietors with no employees, must obtain a Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN). The FEIN is your federal tax I.D. number, and is administered by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). 

Internal Revenue Service: www.irs.gov

A new set of responsibilities arise when a business hires employees. The business must register as an employer with federal and state authorities, pay additional taxes, file new hire reports, withhold, match and submit employee withholdings, obtain workers' compensation insurance, and adhere to employee eligibility regulations. To learn more about these and other responsibilities, please contact:

Oklahoma Employment Security Commission: https://oklahoma.gov/oesc.html

When selecting a site, it is important to make sure the zoning is appropriate for your type of business and the site meets your business needs in terms of location, size, access, parking, etc.  If you need assistance finding a site or market data about your potential site, please contact the Community & Business Relations Division. 

If you will be constructing a new building, remodeling an existing building, or renovating a site, you will likely need to apply for a building permit. All work must conform to the current building codes and meet ADA standards. You may need to hire a licensed architect, engineer, and/or contractor with expertise in these areas. If the building will undergo a change a use, you will likely need to obtain a building permit and/or a certificate of occupancy. If you have questions about the development process in Norman, please contact the City of Norman's Development Services Division. 

The City of Norman's zoning code also regulates the types and sizes of permanent and temporary signs allowed within city limits. Please make sure to get the appropriate approvals before installing your signage. 

Below are several relevant links to the City of Norman Planning and Community Development Department. 

• Planning & Development General Information
• Code & Zoning Information
• Zoning Map
• Development Services
• Sign Permits

Obtain required licenses or permits from the agencies or governments that issue them as well as information on regulations and other operating requirements. The Oklahoma Department of Commerce has information on what is required for various industries: https://oklahoma.gov/business/operate/licenses-and-permits.html

Some businesses will require additional licenses from the City of Norman, the Oklahoma State Health Department, the Alcoholic Beverage Laws Enforcement (ABLE) Commission, Oklahoma Medical Marijuana Authority (OMMA) or other entities. Please contact the City Clerk's office below if you have questions or you can visit the Business Licensing page. 

Other Important Contact Information:

• Oklahoma State Department of Health, Licensing & Inspections:  https://oklahoma.gov/health/services/licensing-inspections.html
• Oklahoma ABLE Commission:  www.ok.gov/able
• Oklahoma Medical Marijuana Authority (OMMA):  www.omma.ok.gov

A building inspection may be required prior to opening your business.  If building and trade permits (electrical, mechanical, plumbing) are required, final approved inspections will be required in advance of obtaining your Certificate of Occupancy. For questions about building permits and inspections, please contact the City of Norman's Development Services Division.  Outside licensing agencies, such as the County Health Department and the ABLE Commission, will also likely need to complete a final inspection prior to opening day. 

Once these steps are completed and all of your final approvals are signed, you are ready to open for business. We wish you the best of luck on your new endeavor!

There are many greats resources in the Norman community to help your business grow and succeed. Please reach out to the City of Norman's Community and Business Relations Division if you need assistance or more information about local resources.