Starting a Business

The City of Bella Vista does not issue or offer business licenses.However, prospective businesses should be aware of any state or other applicable agency requirements or prerequisites. Visit Owning a Business at this Arkansas.gov page for more information.

If your business plan includes adding on to an existing structure, or altering an existing structure or shell building in any way, you will need to follow the Commercial Certificate of Occupancy Procedure (page 3 of 10). If your plan includes developing a new building, contact a City Planner to learn more.

Some small businesses may be allowed to be operated within a primary residence, provided they meet all code requirements of a home occupation as required in Section 109-176. For further questions, contact a City Planner.

Please note that permanent signage is not allowed within residential zoning districts.

Here are some other helpful resources to make the process of starting your own business easier: