HCCCState and Local Licensing and Permit Requirement
Michigan does not require a general business license; however, some types of businesses do require licensing, certification and or permits. Check first with the county/city or township in which you are looking to locate your business regarding licensing requirements. Find out about State licensing requirements at Michigan’s One Stop License Search.
Air, water and solid waste standards apply to certain types of businesses; contact the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality for detailed information.
Contact the Hillsdale County Building Inspector to assure compliance with regulations affecting construction to determine if the level of improvement you may be performing at your place of business requires a building, plumbing, mechanical or electrical permit or stamped drawings from an engineer or architect. Permits and stamped drawings are always required for new construction.
Before purchasing signage, check with your city/township or village to see if there is a sign ordinance; obtain a sign permit if required.
Before signing a lease or purchasing property or a building, check with the city/township or village Zoning Administrator to see if the chosen location is located in a zoning district that allows your specific type of business; obtain a zoning permit if required.
If you are constructing a new building or altering the size of an existing one, your project may require site plan approval by the Planning Commission in the city/township or village in which the project is located.
Check with your city/township or village to see if you must apply for an occupancy permit.