THE CITY OF ALPHARETTA PRIDES ITSELF on the quality relationship that exists between local businesses and the community. An excellent example of such a relationship is evident in the Downtown Alpharetta Partner's Program.
WELCOME
How to Start a Business in Alpharetta
A Guide To Licensing, Permitting And Information Resources In Alpharetta
The City of Alpharetta’s Department of Community Development has worked diligently over the past several years to develop a userfriendly approach to the licensing and permitting process. It is our sincere desire to make the process of starting your business as simple as possible while also maintaining our commitment to protecting the aesthetic and economic wellbeing of Alpharetta in accordance with our community’s development plan. The City of Alpharetta prides itself on the quality relationship that exists between local businesses, our residents, and our leadership. The result of that pride and the commitment we have made to communicating it through our every action is evident in the quality businesses that have chosen to make Alpharetta home. We are excited that you have elected to invest your future in our community. This guide was developed in an attempt to aid you in starting your new business in Alpharetta. While it certainly does not answer all of the questions that you are sure to have over the next few months, it does provide information on who you can turn to to find those answers. Additionally, it will guide you through the process of obtaining the neccessary licenses and permits to operate in Alpharetta. Thank you for making your business investment here. If we can be of any assistance to you as you locate and operate your business, we hope that you will not hesitate to contact our Economic Development Coordinator at (678) 297-6075 or our main-line at (678) 297-6070.
Downtown Partners is a joint effort of the City of Alpharetta, First Colony Bank, and the Downtown Alpharetta Business Association with the objective to collectively contribute resources in order to improve the downtown business climate. A low interest loan program is also available for building improvements in the historic downtown district. (A separate Downtown Partners package is available upon request from the Community Development Department).
In addition, the Community Development Department offers a brochure entitled "How to Start a Business in Alpharetta." The brochure serves as an informational guide to small business start-up and includes processes, guidelines, and additional resources. To obtain a brochure, or for more information, please contact the Community Development Department at (678) 297-6070 or click here to download. Also you will find a web version below.
Yet another source of information is the U.S. Government's Small Business Administration which is an excellent resource for small businesses. Contact the SBA at (404) 347-2441 or via the Internet at http://www.sba.gov
Frequently Asked Questions
The Small Business Administration is an excellent resource for small businesses. Contact the SBA at (404) 529-9865 or www.sba.gov regarding these frequently asked questions.
- What legal aspects should I consider?
- How can I find qualified employees?
- What are the alternatives in financing a business?
- What do I have to do to get a loan?
- What financial statements will I need?
- What does marketing involve?
- What is my market potential?
- What about advertising?
- Are some locations better than others?
- Is it better to lease or buy my site or building?
Other good sources of information for business startups include the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce at (770) 993-8806 and the Small Business Development Center at (404) 651-3550.
Other Considerations
Some other questions to consider before starting your business include:
- Is the proposed site readily accessible?
- How is the circulation and traffic flow in the area?
- Are there similar businesses in the area?
- How is waste disposal handled?
- What source of income will I have through startup?
If you encounter questions during startup and need assistance, contact the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce at (770) 993-8806.
Download Business Licensing Procedure
Additional Resources
Business Licenses:
Alpharetta (678) 297-6086
Fulton County (404) 730-7602
Child Care Licensing (404) 657-5562
Other Licenses:
Food Service Permits
Fulton County Health Department (770) 640-3053
Alcoholic Beverage Licenses
Alpharetta (678) 297-6003
Fulton County (404) 730-7720
General Tax Information:
Alpharetta (678) 297-6056
Fulton County (404) 730-6400
General Information (404) 651-8651
Federal ID Number (404) 522-0050
Federal Tax Information (800) 829-3676
Internal Revenue Service (800) 829-1040
Payroll Tax:
State Withholding (404) 656-4071
Federal Withholding (404) 522-0050
Information Resources:
Small Business Administration (404) 529-9865
Small Business Development Center (404) 651-3550
Fulton County Planning Department (404) 730-8000
