• Not all businesses in Kentucky require a state business license.business is business - cliche image by Jeffrey Zalesny from Fotolia.com
  
  Starting a business requires you follow laws on a federal, state and local levels. In Kentucky, a business license is required to run a business. In some cases, a special business license may be needed. Kentucky does not have a statewide business license that applies to all types of businesses, but some businesses do require a special permit or license to operate.
  
  

Type of Business

• Kentucky does not have a statewide business license. Certain types of businesses will require licensing dependent on what field they are in. For instance, construction businesses would not apply for a business license, instead, they would apply for a contractor or construction license from the Kentucky Division of Housing. An animal facility would be licensed by the Board of Veterinary Examiners and be issued a veterinary certificate. Visit the license section of ThinkKenucky.com for information on the business you would like to open.
  
  

Registering a Business

• Even though a business does not have to be licensed, in many circumstances it must be registered with the state of Kentucky. Registration requires having a name for your business and deciding how your business will be structured. For instance, will it be a sole proprietorship or a limited liability company (LLC)? Once this is decided, go to the local county clerk to register your choice.
  
  

City or County Business License

• While there is no statewide business license that can be issued, most counties or cities will require you apply for a business license so you can pay the county or city taxes for your business. Check with the county or city clerk in your area to get proper application information.