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Business Licenses and Permits
Prior to opening a business within the Town of Richmond, please contact the Zoning Department. Pursuant to Chapter 5.06 of the Town Code of Ordinances every corporation, partnership, limited liability company, sole proprietorship, or other business entity located in Richmond, whether wholesale, retail, commercial, or manufacturing, shall register with the town clerk. The business shall provide to the town clerk the name of the business, the name of the owner, the type of business or nature of the business, the mailing address, the physical address, the telephone number, and the e-mail address of the business. The information shall be submitted utilizing the Business License Application provided by the town clerk for that purpose. The license shall not expire and will need to be renewed annually by December 31st. There shall be a $25 one-time fee for the Business License.
The certificate required by this Chapter is also in addition to any license or permit required to operate or engage in a particular business activity. You may also be required to obtain business licenses in accordance with Title 5 of the Town Code of Ordinances.
For new businesses: Please utilize the Business License Application to apply for your Business License. This application provides contact information for departments necessary for approval.
Please also visit the Rhode Island Department of State Website for more information on how to start a business.
Trade Name Portal – database to check the availability of an unincorporated business name
RI Business Portal – database to check the availability of an incorporated entity name
News
- 2/11/2026: Small Business Energy Efficiency Grant Program starting on 2/17
- 12/4/2025: All trade name registrations and renewals will be done through the RI Secretary of State's Office. Learn more
- 10/9/2025: The Adult Use Retail Cannabis License Application Submission Portal is now open -- Learn more and view the checklist
Forms
- Business License Application
- Affidavit of Compliance
- Dog Kennel License
- Hawker-Peddler - Door to Door Salesperson License
- Holiday Sales License
- Indoor Entertainment License
- Liquor License - Club
- Liquor License - Corp
- Liquor License - Individual or Partner
- Liquor License - LLC
- Outdoor Entertainment License
- Private Detective License
- Refuse Collection and Hauling
- Seasonal Recreation Facility
- Second Hand Dealer - Junkyard - Flea Market
- Table Games and Game Rooms License
- Victualing License
- Victualing License - Additional Hours