We help make it easier.
Bedford County’s Office of Economic Development is passionate about helping you succeed in starting your business. Whether you are just beginning to write your business plan or have already gotten off to a great start, we are here to assist you.
No business license needed in Bedford County!
Many business owners are surprised to learn that Bedford County does not require a business license. This is just another sign that Bedford County keeps things simple for business owners. If your bank or insurance company requests a copy of your business license, you may use this letter that explains the county’s “no business license” standard.
Though a business license is not required, a permit to operate your business in the County is required through the Department of Community Development. Please contact their office at (540) 586-7616 for more information on how to apply for the permit.
You must also register your business with the Commissioner of Revenue. Please contact their office at (540) 586-7621 to register and to receive additional information pertaining to local and state government guidelines for starting your business.
Businesses located within the Town of Bedford boundaries, Business Licenses are required and are issued by the Town. An annual business permit of $30 is required and renewal of business licenses should be done by the end of January every year. For more information on licenses and fees within the Town limits, visit the Town’s website.
Helpful Links
County offices to contact when starting a business
Need a business loan?
The Complete Guide to Getting Financial Help Through the Small Business Administration
Helpful Contacts:
Bedford County Commissioner of the Revenue’s Office
Tax Structure:
(540) 586-7621
Bedford County Community Development
Building Inspections:
(540) 586-7616
Zoning:
(540) 586-7616
Addressing:
(540) 587-5678
Bedford County Health Department
Environmental Services
(540) 586-7952
Bedford County Public Safety
Fire & Rescue
(540) 587-0700
U.S. Internal Revenue Service
Employer ID Number
1 (800) 829-1040
www.irs.gov
Virginia Department of Environmental Quality
Lynchburg DEQ Office
(434) 582-5120
www.deq.virginia.gov
Virginia Department of Taxation
Virginia Tax ID Number
(804) 367-8036
www.tax.virginia.gov
Virginia State Corporation Commission (SCC)
Certificate of Assumed or Fictitious Name
1 (800) 552-7945
www.scc.virginia.gov
Central Virginia Community College Workforce Solutions & Community Education
Customized training and other workforce needs
Small Business Development Center — Lynchburg region (your local SBDC)
http://sbdclyhr.org/
U.S. Small Business Administration
Resources to help women-owned businesses and more
U.S. Dept. of Agriculture
Agriculture and forestry laws and regulations
Virginia Dept. of Business Assistance
State incentives, financing and more
Virginia Small Business Development Center
Start your own business
Start Up Resources
SCORE has the largest network of free volunteer small business mentors in the nation.
