Starting a Business

Starting a Business in Prince William County

Opening a new business is a significant investment of financial and personal resources. New businesses are important to the financial health of the County. The County wants to assist you through the regulatory process to ensure your business has a positive impact on the community/neighborhood, is safe to occupy, and opens as quickly as possible.

This Web page provides an overview of the various regulatory requirements to open your business. Since each business and its proposed location are unique, it is important to note that this is a general overview, and there will be variations among projects.

  • 1. Before Purchasing a Building or Signing a Lease
  • 2. Project Management
  • 3. Determine and Register Trade Name
  • 4. Business Licensing
  • 5. Planning/Zoning Approval
  • 6. Building Code Approval