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1. Who needs to register their business?

All businesses in Utah are required by law to register with the Utah Department of Commerce either as a "DBA" (Doing Business As), corporation, limited liability company, or limited partnership. In addition, certain types of businesses need special licenses and permits in order to operate, i.e., insurance agents, contractors, doctors, and dry cleaners, etc. Businesses are also required to obtain a business license from the city or county in which they are located.

Business Licensing Page

2. Why are businesses required to register?

Registration ensures that the business name cannot be legally used by another business. The more you use the registered name and become known to the public by name, the more legal protection your name earns against "predatory encroachment" by other businesses. Registration is required so that a comprehensive state registry of all business and corporate information is available for public reference. This information is vital to an orderly legal system and marketplace. 

Without it, the public or other businesses may have no way of knowing the persons with whom they are doing business. In addition, registration is required by law to provide public notice as to who owns or stands behind a business entity. You cannot file a lawsuit in court as a business if your business is not registered. Registration enables careful business people to verify information about companies with whom they do business.

3. How can I register my business name?

You can register a business name through Utah's OneStop Online Business Registration website or Utah Division of Corporations and Commercial Code located:
160 E 300 S
2nd Floor
Salt Lake City, UT 84145-080

You may also call 801-530-4849 for more information.

4. How do I get a sales tax number?

You can call 435-251-9529, apply online through Utah's OneStop Online Business Registration Website or at Utah State Tax Commission located:
100 S 5300 W
Hurricane, UT 84737

5. Where do I get a business license application?

You can obtain applications at the Hurricane Business License Department which is located at the City office building at:
147 N 870 W
Hurricane, UT 84737
The office is located within the Planning and Zoning Department. You may download the forms.

For more information call 435-635-2811, ext. 112.

6. Can I operate a business from my home?

If your business meets the conditions outlined in Title 10-Chapter 42, it could be approved. The application process, requirements, and expiration are the same as commercial business licenses.

7. When does the license expire?

All commercial and home-based business licenses expire 365 days from the date of approval.

8. How do I renew my license?

Renewal notices for the following year are mailed by the business license office 45 days prior to expiration. Payments are due on or before 45 days after the expiration date.

9. What are the penalties if the payment is late?

Delinquent licenses are assessed a $20 late penalty after 30 days past the due date.

10. What if my business changes locations within the City Limits of Hurricane?

Business licenses are issued for a specific business address. Changes in an address require an application for the new location. There is a $25 processing fee that should be submitted with the application.

11. What if my business closes or moves out of Hurricane?

If your business status changes, please notify the business license department using one of the following methods: 

• Email Cindy Beteag the business name, license number, address, and date of closure.
• Complete the Business Closure section on the Business License Renewal Form (PDF) and return it to the Business License department. 
• Send a letter that includes the business name, license number, address, and date of closure to:
  City of Hurricane
  Attn: Business Licensing
  147 N 870 W
  Hurricane, UT 84737

12. Are licenses transferable?

A business license cannot be transferred from one person or business to another. A new license must be applied for when a change of ownership of the business takes place.

13. Will I need a background check?

Background checks are required for the following businesses:

• Any business dealing with minor children
• Entry to a private residence
• Firearm-related
• Massage therapy

14. Do I need a business license?

A valid Hurricane City business license is required for all businesses that are located within the Hurricane City limits. A business license is the means whereby Hurricane City grants permission to engage in a business activity at a specific location within the City. 

The definition of business includes all kinds of vocations, occupations, professions, enterprises, establishments, and all other kinds of activities and matters, whether full time or part-time, together with all devices, machines, vehicles, and appurtenances related thereto, any of which are conducted for private profit or benefit. A separate license shall be required for each type of business and for each place of business located within Hurricane City.