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

421 NW 13th Street, Suite 210

Oklahoma City, OK 73103

(405) 521-3912

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

2501 North Lincoln Boulevard

Connors Building

Oklahoma City, OK 73194

(405) 521-3160

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

(800) 829-1040

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 City's Retail Marketing Coordinator. 

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's Development Coordinator. 

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

Building Permits

Sign Permits

Zoning Map

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 at www.okcommerce.gov/business/licensing.

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. 

City of Norman, City Clerk's Office

201 West Gray Street

Norman, OK 73069

(405) 366-5386

Other Important Contact Information:

• Oklahoma State Department of Health, Licensing & Inspections

         1000 N.E. 10th Street

         Oklahoma City, OKC 73117

        (405) 271-5243

       https://oklahoma.gov/health/services/licensing-inspections.html

• Oklahoma ABLE Commission

         3812 N. Santa Fe, Suite 200

        Oklahoma City, OK 73118

        (405) 521-3484

         www.ok.gov/able

• Oklahoma Medical Marijuana Authority (OMMA)

         PO Box 262266

         Oklahoma City, OK 73126-2266

         Phone: (405) 522-6662

        Call Center Hours of Operation: Monday - Friday 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

        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's Permit Services Supervisor in the Development Services Divsion.  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.