You can find information from the City about:  

• How to start a new business
• Tips for opening your business 

The State of Minnesota also has information and requirements for trades licenses.  

See State of Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry (DOLI)

Meet with a Business Licensing customer service representative

Meet with a business licensing customer service representative to go over the requirements for your contractor’s license. You may not work in Minneapolis until you have your license.  

See how to get help at the City of Minneapolis service center

Obtain surety bonds

Surety bonds are a promise from a third-party company that if you do not fulfill your contract obligations, they will pay your client. Most public and many private construction contracts require surety bonds. You can obtain surety bonds by contacting a professional surety bond producer, or through the U.S. Small Business Association (SBA) if you qualify. 

See how surety bonds work

Minneapolis and the State of Minnesota require bonds.

• See if you need a City of Minneapolis bond
• Read State of Minnesota bond requirements

Apply for your Minneapolis competency card

A Certificate of Competency card is proof that the cardholder has the training, experience, and technical knowledge to install, alter, repair, and service equipment.  

City of Minneapolis competency cards

Get your insurance

Most trades contractors must have insurance before they can get a license.

See insurance certificate

Review the business license application

You must have a license to provide trade or skilled work services in Minneapolis.

See contractor license applications

Fee

Find your license fee

Submit all required documents and fees

Submit your application to Business Licenses & Consumer Services

If you have questions, contact:

• 311
• Business Licenses

Tell your new neighbors about your business

Contact your council member, neighborhood organization, and business association where your business will be located.

• Promote and create interest in your business
• Network with local residents and leaders
• Learn about resources they may offer small businesses

Send an email to your:

• City council member
• Neighborhood organization
• Business association

Expand your business

The City offers financing to help you cover costs of expansion, such as equipment.

• Contact the Small Business Team
• See City business programs

Renew your business license

Your business license must be renewed every December. We will send your renewal information in the mail 30 days before it is due.

View the City of Minneapolis Business Licensing Renewal Process video

Contact 311 if you have questions