Maine Business License
Maine Small Business Information
Are you looking for answers to questions about your small business in Maine? If so, you'll find them through the state's Department of Economic and Community Development (DCED). Visit this agency's official website and then go to their "Business Answers" section. There you will find a searchable directory where you can enter a keyword to find out more about licenses and permits.
Another service offered by Maine's Small Business Development Centers and the DCED is Maine Business Works. Through this program, you'll find access to assistance in the area of business development.
On the Maine.gov website, you can navigate to the "Starting a Business" section. This section is full of useful links on small business subjects such as financing, planning, and startups.
What Business Licenses are Required?
In Maine, general licenses are normally needed in order to run a business. General licenses are issued in the city or town where you are located. Contact your local city government for assistance in this matter. If you need contact information, you can find it by visiting the Maine.gov website and then navigating to the Local Government page.
Licensing isn't all that's required for many Maine small business owners. Many of them must also register with the state's Bureau of Corporations, particularly if they are Limited Liability Companies (LLCs) or corporations.
Do I Need a Professional License?
There are three main questions you will need to answer before applying for your business license. First, will be whether or not you need a professional license?
Several different professions require licensing through the state of Maine. A few of those professions include doctors (medical, dentists, veterinarians, etc.); accountants, engineers, architects, nurses, and lawyers, among others.
There are many different types of business, and knowing whether or not you need a professional license is important. Be sure to do your research and know what is required of you to start a business in Maine so that you can get started on the right foot.
Assumed or Business Name Registration
The second question you need to ask before applying for a business license is whether or not you will be using your own name or creating a business name. It's not unusual for Maine business owners to operate a company under a name other than their own. Using a business name is quite common, and may also be referred to as an assumed, fictitious or trade name, as well as a "Doing Business As" (or DBA) name.
If you plan to use a name other than your own, you will need to register this name with the state. Additionally, some Maine corporations and LLCs may have originally registered with one name when their companies started. They are now doing business under another name and also need to register it with the state.
Trade Names and Trademarks
Lastly, the third question you will need to ask is if you have a trademark you need to register. Trademarks, trade names and service marks all play a very important role in protecting your business. Although each one is defined differently under the law, they nonetheless all have a similar function in that they are intended to uniquely identify your goods, services, and business.
In fact, service marks, trademarks, and trade names may even help identify your goods, business, and services from that of your competition or potential competition. Accordingly, it is important to protect your trademarks, trade name, or service marks by registering them with the Bureau of Corporations. This is a distinct process that is different from federal registration.
Conclusion
Before you start the process of acquiring your business license, you will want to answer these three questions. This will help streamline the process, saving you time and hassle. Know what type of business you will be starting and whether or not you need a professional license.
The license application process can be daunting. But with a little help, it doesn't have to be insurmountable. Here at the chamber of commerce, we are working to help you to start and operate your new business so you can pursue your entrepreneurial dreams.
Don't let the business license application process deter you from pursuing your dreams of owning your own business. Use the resources listed above to get started. As you start operating your business, the chamber of commerce is here to help you every step of the way.
FAQ
Does My Business Need a License?
All non-profits, along with for-profit corporations like limited partnerships, limited liability companies, and limited liability partnerships must have a business license in Maine. Businesses do not need a state license, as general business licensing is done at a local level. However, the state government regulates certain professions and occupations through special permits. These may be required by the state agency for professionals and businesses offering their services.
What Occupations Need Special Permits?
Maine requires licenses for several professions to be allowed to practice. This includes electricians, barbers, counselors, financial services providers, and marine harvesters to name just a few. A full list can be found at www.maine.gov/portal/business/professions.html.
What Are the Requirements for Local Licensing?
The requirements for business licenses vary depending on where you live. The cities of Bangor, Lewiston, and Portland all issue special occupational licenses that are specific to the services provided by the business. However, regulations for different types of businesses vary from one city to the next. All sole proprietors or general partnerships who operate under a different name than their own must file additional registrations with the city. This is not required in Lewiston. Local licensing requirements are set by city ordinances. It is important to verify that your business meets all applicable licensing requirements.
What Information Do I Need for Licensing Applications?
The information required will vary depending on which license you apply for. Applications almost always require the complete name of the company, its address and contact information, as well as the name and contact information of both the owner and, in the case of corporations, the names and contact details of all officers. You will need to give information about the products and services that your business offers and provide documentation for any city inspections.
