Start a Business in Brunswick County Checklist

Welcome to Brunswick County! Whether you’re interested in relocating a business or starting a new one, we’re here to help.

Each situation is different, with different requirements and variables. Before you build or rent a facility, we encourage you to contact us at 910-253-2025 or connie.marlowe@brunswickcountync.gov, so we can help you review area zoning, use-related building codes or requirements, and other unique factors.

If you need help with a business plan, identifying funding sources, or other aspects of starting a new business, you may contact Brunswick Business & Industry Development (BBID) or the Small Business Center at Brunswick Community College. 

The Small Business Center offers confidential counseling, seminars and workshops designed to answer questions about starting and running small businesses.

BBID encourages the development of new or relocating business and industry, and assists in the retention of existing business and industry. While it typically deals with larger companies, employees are happy to answer questions or help direct you to the right place.

The following checklist provides a very general, broad list of things to do when starting a business; it is meant to help you get started, but we still encourage you to contact us, so we can address your unique situation on an individual level!

When you’re getting started, don’t forget:

1. To contact Planning, so we can help you address zoning compatibility, renovations and construction, and Environmental Health requirements like carbon monoxide detectors or sanitation inspections.
2. Brunswick County does not require privilege licenses! But the state of North Carolina and individual municipalities might require some type of license or permit, so don’t forget to check with them.
3. Don’t forget your business personal property! Click here for more information about filing business personal property taxes.
4. Planning to use a “doing business as” name, or a name other than your own personal name? Don’t forget to register it with the Register of Deeds Office!
5. Don’t forget to talk to Utilities, to review your current water and wastewater capacities and any changes and associated impact fees you may need.