North Little Rock business license guide
The zoning-first sequence North Little Rock businesses should follow before applying for a city business or privilege license.
Reviewed against official sources: September 5, 2026North Little Rock requires a city license
The City states that all businesses conducting business within its limits must obtain a business or privilege license. The required zoning certificate comes first—even for home-based and out-of-city applications.
1. Get the zoning certificate
Contact the North Little Rock Planning Department for the address. The city says the zoning certificate must be obtained before the business-license application and remains valid for 30 days. If it expires before the license is issued, another certificate is required.
2. Prepare the lease and supporting records
The city requires a copy of the residential or commercial lease between the property owner and tenant occupying the space. Ask whether entity records, professional licenses, inventory details, or other attachments apply to the business classification.
3. Add the home-occupation permit when applicable
A business operated from a North Little Rock home also requires a home-occupation permit. The zoning certificate is still part of the city’s process, so do not assume a low-traffic or online business is automatically exempt.
4. Submit the application before payment
North Little Rock says a new application or renewal invoice must be submitted and approved before payment can be made. The City Clerk’s office provides the current application forms and fee schedule and can give the final amount because variables may apply.
5. Keep the annual renewal and address rule on file
The business or privilege license renews annually. A move within the city requires a new zoning certificate and application, although the city currently says there is no additional fee for the address change.
Current city contacts
- Business-license questions: City Clerk and Treasurer, 501-975-8617
- Zoning questions: Planning Department, 501-975-8835
- License office: 300 Main Street, City Hall
- Confirm the current forms, attachments, fee, and renewal date directly with the city
Turn the general checklist into your checklist.
Answer a few questions about your Arkansas business and see the requirements most likely to need your attention.