Operating a Business in Stafford County

Congratulations, and thank you for choosing to do business in Stafford County! Before opening your doors or starting a home-based business, be sure to check in with these key departments.

Economic Development

[email protected]
540-658-8681

The Economic Development Department is your liaison for other county departments and state agencies. Depending on your industry, Economic Development can assist you with a tailored to-do list with the steps you need to open your business. In addition, Economic Development can assist with funding resources (grants & loans), searching for property, ribbon cutting services, continuing education, and networking opportunities.

Community Development Services Center (CDSC)

Development Services Department and Planning & Zoning Department
[email protected]
540-658-8650

Whether you are setting up shop in a commercial location or operating out of your home, there are permit and zoning requirements for both. All commercial properties must obtain a Certificate of Occupancy. All home-based businesses must have a Home Occupation/Business Permit. A Permit Technician can assist you with either of these permit types. An in-person visit is recommended when you’re ready to submit your application.

Commissioner of the Revenue (COR)

Register here: www.StaffordCountyVA.gov/COR
540-658-4132 – Choose Option 1

For local taxation compliance with the Commissioner of Revenue, owners must register the business and file annually on all business property, with filing due February 15th of each year (first half tax bills are mailed out in May and due June 5th, and second half tax bills are mailed out in November and due December 5th). If these criteria are met, the owner will receive a Business Registration Certificate, valid for one year. Business property is not prorated.

In addition to checking in with Economic Development, Community Development, and the Commissioner of the Revenue, you may be required to check in with these other departments/agencies:

Virginia State Corporation Commission (SCC)

Businesses wanting to establish or operate as a limited liability company (LLC), corporation, limited partnership, general partnership, registered limited liability partnership, or business trust must file with the SCC.

Virginia Department of Taxation

Businesses wanting to establish or operate as a sole proprietor, corporate entities, pass-through entities, and other entities such as non-profits, cooperatives, public service corporations, etc. must register with the VA Dept. of Taxation. If you plan to hire employees, you can register with the Virginia Employment Commission (VEC) at the same time.

Internal Revenue Service

Form your legal entity (LLC, partnership, corporation, or tax-exempt organization) through the Commonwealth before you apply with the IRS for a Federal Employer Identification Number, or EIN. Generally you need an EIN to hire employees, operate a partnership or corporation, pay sales and excise taxes, and/or change business structures or ownership.

Treasurer’s Office

Businesses must make payments for assessed business property or all applicable business taxes to remain in compliance with the county and continue to be eligible for their annual Business Registration Certificate. First half bills are mailed out in May and due June 5th. Second half bills are mailed out in November and due December 5th.

Stafford Fire Marshal’s Office (FMO)

As the primary agency enforcing the Fire Prevention Code, inspections and approvals by the FMO are required prior to a VDH food permit being issued for Commercial Kitchens and Mobile Food Units.

Stafford Commissioner of the Revenue (COR)

Code of Virginia Section 58.1-3833 and Stafford County Code, Chapter 23 Article VII, require all businesses in Stafford County that sell prepared food, collect a percentage of food and beverage tax from the consumer. The money collected is held in trust for Stafford County and may not be used for personal or business expenses. Filing and remitting this tax is due the 20th of every month and can be done online once a Business Account has been created.

Virginia Department of Health (VDH)

VDH has a food permit requirement for new or remodeled foodservice facilities or those transferring ownership, as well as mobile food units.

Correspondence with VDH confirming you meet their permit requirements is required to obtain a Home Occupation/Business Permit or a Certificate of Occupancy from Stafford County Community Development Services.

Virginia Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services (VDACS)

VDACS oversees food that is packaged and offered for sale in a home or commercial kitchen. In addition, VDACS oversees Virginia’s Home Kitchen Food Processing Exemptions (“Cottage Law”). Correspondence with VDACS confirming whether you are exempt or if you meet their permit requirements is required to obtain a Home Occupation/Business Permit from Stafford County Community Development. 
Contact: [email protected]

Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR)

Professions such as Engineers, Cosmetologists, Tradesmen, Nail Technicians, and many more require a license. Visit the website to view a list of regulated professions and occupations and their requirements.

Virginia Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services (VDACS)

Food establishments, including private homes, that manufacture, process, and package food for sale are subject to regulatory compliance from VDACS under Virginia Code 3.2-5130. In addition, VDACS oversees Virginia’s Home Kitchen Food Processing Exemptions (“Cottage Law”). Correspondence with VDACS confirming whether you are exempt or if you meet their permit requirements is required to obtain a Home Occupation/Business Permit from Stafford County Community Development.

Virginia Department of Education/Child Care VA

Center-based and home-based programs can find important resources and guidance through Virginia’s official child care website.

Virginia Motor Vehicle Dealer Board (MVDB)

MVDB is the state agency charged with the regulation and oversight of the new and used car and truck dealer industry. Effective July 1, 2015 the Virginia General Assembly unanimously adopted HB2189 which expanded the Board’s responsibilities to include the licensing and regulatory responsibility for recreational vehicles, motorcycles, and trailer dealers.

Small Business Development Center (SBDC)

The University of Mary Washington Small Business Development Center (UMW SBDC) inspires and enables entrepreneurs and their organizations to pursue economic growth through education, consulting, connecting, and supportive research.

*NOTE: This list is not intended to be comprehensive. To learn more about your industry’s specific needs, or for assistance, please contact Stafford County Economic Development.

Stafford is a one-stop-shop for doing business. The opportunities and challenges facing new businesses are many. An onsite team of experts helps businesses navigate this process. Whether businesses seek financing support or the energy of Stafford’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, connect with the team and like-minded community leaders.