2 guides
Opening & expanding
Step-by-step walkthroughs for opening a site, adding a location and crossing a jurisdiction line — written for operators doing it for the first time.
- 2026-07-14Opening a second location: what changes, and what does notYour second site is not a copy of your first. Entity registration usually carries over; every premises-bound permit starts again from zero.8 min read
- 2026-06-28What happens when a permit lapsesMost jurisdictions send no reminder, and many boards can revoke on the expiry date with no grace period. Here is what actually follows.6 min read
What our records show
Figures from the published records behind this site, last verified 2026-10-15. They update as records are re-checked.
| Permit type | Jurisdictions | Typical fee (middle half) | Median fee | Usual term |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| General business license | 308 in 51 states | $50–$225 | $100 | not applicable |
| Certificate of occupancy | 203 in 49 states | $75–$232 | $125 | issued once per qualifying occupancy |
| Sign permit | 213 in 50 states | $50–$281 | $100 | one-time, per sign |
| Sales and use tax permit | 57 in 51 states | $20–$50 | $50 | not applicable |