First Steps in Business
Amherst County welcomes new businesses. We know that starting a business is exciting, but can also be overwhelming too. We are here to help your business succeed and want to link you with the resources you need.
When starting a new business in Amherst County you will need to work with three departments: Planning & Zoning Department, Building Department, and the Commissioner of Revenue.
Planning and Zoning
New businesses should begin at the Department of Planning and Zoning. Planning and Zoning help you determine what types of permits you will need for your business and determine any zoning issues. Home businesses are required to have a permit in Amherst County. Planning and Zoning: (434) 946-9303, 153 Washington Street, Amherst, VA 24521.
Is your business going to be located in the Town of Amherst?
If so, then begin at the Town of Amherst’s Town Hall, at 174 S. Main Street, (434) 946-7885
Building and Occupancy Permits
⮜ Learn more about Building & Occupancy.
Register your Business Name
The fee to register your business name is $10. Make sure that your name isn’t registered. You can do all of this online. However, in order to receive a business license, you must print a copy of the certificate to bring with you to the Commissioner of the Revenue.
Business License
Amherst County requires a business license, except for retail and wholesale businesses. Business licenses are issued through the Commissioner of the Revenue. Retail and wholesale businesses do not need to obtain a business license. Go to the Commissioner of the Revenue office to obtain and pay for your license. Fees can be found on the Amherst County website. Commissioner of the Revenue information: (434) 946-9310, 100 Goodwin Street, Amherst, VA 24521
Amherst County Business License Application Form
Applicants must submit their original form to the Commissioner’s office (not a copy), and must sign the document in the presence of a staff member in the Commissioner’s office.
Is your business going to be located in the Town of Amherst? Home businesses are required to have a permit in the Town of Amherst. The Town requires a business license. The form for the business license can be found on line at www.amherstva.gov. Gross receipts will be estimated for the first year in business. The Town Treasurer is located at 174 S. Main Street, (434) 946-7885, townhall@amherstva.gov.
Get Started
Other Licensure and Permits
Certain occupations and businesses are required to have specialty licenses and permits from the Commonwealth of Virginia. Such businesses and occupations would include construction, spas, hair salons, health and medical professions, and others. For comprehensive and up to date information see:
- Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation www.dpor.virginia.gov
- Virginia Department of Health Professions www.dhp.virginia.gov
- Virginia Department Agriculture and Consumer Services www.vdacs.virginia.gov
Alcohol Beverage Control
Other Important Contacts in Amherst County
(434) 384-1979
113 Phelps Rd, Madison Heights, VA 24572
Town Of Amherst Municipal Water & Sewer
(434) 946-7885, 174 S. Main Street
townhall@amherstva.gov.
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