Colorado Business License Renewal
The general city or county license (or business tax registration) most operating businesses must hold.
- Renewal cycle
- Usually annual (set by city or county)
Last reviewed 2026-05-24. Fees and dates change - confirm with the issuing authority before relying on them.
Who needs a business license?
Most cities and counties require any operating business - including restaurants and bars - to hold a general business license or business tax registration certificate.
This is separate from your food and alcohol permits. It is issued locally, so the exact name, fee, and rules depend on your city and county.
Colorado specifics
Colorado has no statewide general business license. Retailers need a state sales tax license (Department of Revenue), and many home-rule cities that collect their own sales tax require a separate city sales tax license or business license - contact each home-rule city where you operate.
Why a lapse hurts
Operating on a lapsed business license can mean late penalties, interest on unpaid business taxes, and in some cities an order to stop operating until you are current.
Because it renews locally and separately from your other permits, it is easy to overlook alongside your food and alcohol licenses.
How renewal works
Renew annually with your city or county, report gross receipts if your locality bases the fee on revenue, and pay the renewal fee or business tax.
Renewal dates are often fixed to a calendar-year cycle, so confirm the date your locality uses.
Never miss this renewal again
Add your business license and every other permit to Renovo and get automatic reminders before each one expires. Free for one business.
Frequently asked questions
How often do I renew a business license in Colorado?
General business licenses are usually renewed annually, but because they are issued by your city or county, the exact cycle and renewal date vary by locality within Colorado. Check with your local business licensing or tax office.
Is a business license the same as a food or liquor permit?
These are separate licenses. A general business license is distinct from your food service permit and liquor license, and a restaurant or bar typically needs all of them, each renewing on its own schedule.
How can I keep track of all my Colorado restaurant or bar license renewals?
List every license and permit with its expiration date in one place and set reminders ahead of each deadline. Renovo is a free tool for this: add your business license and other documents, and it sends automatic reminders before they expire.
Sources
This page is general information, not legal advice. License rules, fees, and deadlines vary by state and locality and change over time - always confirm current requirements with the issuing authority before relying on them.