Apply for a business license

This applies to any individual or entity conducting business within Jersey City. It covers obtaining the required license to legally operate, with fees starting at $50 and varying by business type and size.. Any individual or entity conducting business activities within Jersey City must obtain a business license prior to commencing operations. Costs 50-500 and takes approximately Typically 7 to 10 business days after submission of a complete application. to complete. This guide covers requirements, documents needed, fees, timeline, and the complete application process.

Jersey City Business License Division Applies to all businesses operating within the city limits of Jersey City, New Jersey.
Cost
50-500
Estimated Effort
2-4
Monthly Volume

Ready to Apply?

Complete your application online through the official portal

Apply Now →

Eligibility

Any individual or entity conducting business activities within Jersey City must obtain a business license prior to commencing operations.

Required Documents

Completed Business License Application form
Proof of identification
Proof of business address
Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN) or Social Security Number
Certificate of Incorporation or Business Registration (if applicable)
Zoning approval or certificate of occupancy (if applicable)
Payment for applicable fees

How to Apply

1

Complete the Business License Application form online or at City Hall, submit it with required documents and payment, wait for review and approval, then receive your license certificate. Renew annually before expiration.

Important Deadline

Business licenses must be obtained before starting business operations and renewed annually by the expiration date.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Failing to submit all required documents, missing payment or incorrect fee amount, not renewing license on time, applying after business operations have started.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who needs a business license in Jersey City?

Any individual or entity conducting business activities within Jersey City must obtain a business license before starting operations.

How much does a business license cost?

Fees vary by business type and size, starting at a minimum of $50.

How long does it take to get a business license?

Typically 7 to 10 business days after submitting a complete application.

Contact Jersey City Business License Division

Have questions? Contact the issuing agency directly:

Phone
(201) 547-5040
Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM
Address
City Hall, 280 Grove Street, Jersey City, NJ 07302
Last updated: 2025-11-18

Are You a Local Permit Expert?

Claim this page and help your community while building your professional reputation.

Build Credibility

Establish yourself as the go-to expert for this permit in your area.

Get Visibility

Your profile and website link appear on this page for all visitors to see.

Help Your Community

Keep permit information accurate and up-to-date for local businesses.

Claim This Page →

Takes 5 minutes to apply • Free forever • Cancel anytime

Get Notified of Changes

PRO FEATURE

Never miss updates to requirements, costs, or deadlines for this permit. Get instant email notifications when anything changes.

Includes up to 10 permit alerts + CSV exports + Historic data
See all Pro features →

Change History

Last updated: 2025-11-18

Unlock 2+ Years of Change History

  • See exactly what changed and when
  • Track cost increases over time
  • Compare old vs new requirements
  • Export historic data to CSV

Learn more about Pro features