If you're starting or growing a business in Denver, use this guide to navigate the necessary licensing and permitting processes for small businesses, restaurants, and commercial projects.
Denver's Small Businesses and Entrepreneurs programs can offer guidance, funding opportunities, and resources to help new and existing businesses succeed. Whether you need financing, coaching, or networking support, this is your go-to resource for getting your business off the ground.
Small Business Resources
Review the various permits that may be needed to open your business, and what to do if you’re ready to submit a permit application.
- Zoning — The first step is to determine if the use you want to do is allowed at the property. Denver’s zoning code(s) and the specific zone district covering your property indicate what uses are allowed.
- Find your zone district by inputting your address on the Development Services map to find out the zone district, if your property is a landmarked structure or in a historic district, or is in a regulated floodplain.
- Then check the zone district to confirm what is allowed.
- Restaurants and Commercial Kitchen Permitting — Opening or modifying a restaurant or commercial kitchen in Denver requires multiple permits and approvals; review the guides to navigate zoning, building, fire, sewer/grease interceptor, and health regulations, ensuring your restaurant meets all city standards.
- Other existing commercial, industrial and mixed-use buildings and new large-scale developments — Review online guides from Community Planning & Development (CPD) for building and zoning plan reviews, and construction permits that may be necessary for your project.
- Sewer use and drainage permitting (SUDP) — The review and permit are for connections to sanitary sewers and pre-treatment devices such as grease interceptors, connections to storm sewers, site storm drainage, groundwater discharge, etc. and refers projects to other review entities within the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure (DOTI) when needed.
- Floodplain – If any construction, including an interior remodel, is within a regulatory floodplain, a floodplain permit will be required as part of the SUDP review. Additional requirements will be necessary.
- Right-of-Way Permits — If your business involves construction or operations in public spaces (sidewalks, streets, alleys), you will need Right-of-Way (ROW) Permits through the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure (DOTI). These permits regulate any work impacting public areas to ensure accessibility and safety.
- Outdoor Places Program — This allows businesses to utilize public spaces for seating, events, and activations. If you're looking to expand your restaurant or business into public spaces, this program provides guidelines and application details.
- Utility Plan Review – Your project may require approval and permits from Denver Water and/or Xcel Energy depending on the project scope. Visit these websites to learn more about what may be required, including standards, forms and applications, and other relevant information.
Submit a permit application for plan review
When you are ready to submit an application for plan review to secure the necessary permits to open your small business, you will need to submit all necessary information online.
Before operating in Denver, businesses may need various licenses depending on their industry — this includes food service, liquor, and marijuana. In addition to any necessary construction or zoning permits, most businesses must obtain a business license through the Department of Excise and Licenses.
We strongly encourage applicants to apply for business licenses concurrently with any other City permits (e.g., building, zoning, health, or right-of-way permits) to streamline the opening process.
If you have questions about which licenses you need or how to apply, our staff is available to help.
Schedule an in-person or virtual appointment
We also welcome walk-in visits at our public service lobby during normal business hours.
Check licensing requirements and apply online through our easy-to-navigate Business Licensing Center.