Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs Related to New Business Permitting in York City
I am a sole proprietor, do I still need this permit?
Yes, anyone who does business - even if it is reported on your personal taxes is still required to have these permits.
I use this space as a satellite location, do I still need this permit?
Yes, anyone who operates a business in the City of York is required to have these permits. So even if you file your taxes in a different city or state, you must submit these applications.
How much is this going to cost me?
Depending on the type of business that you operate, you will need different permits. For most businesses, you are required to have a New Business Permit and a Certificate of Compliance (CoC). The New Business Permit costs $35 and must be filed and paid before you can file for your CoC. Your CoC is based on the square footage of your space, the fee starts at $120. Larger spaces may require higher fees as set by the City of York.
If you have questions about the fees and/or licensing you need, you will need to contact the York City Bureau of Permits and Inspections.
I've been operating my business for months/years, why do I have to do this now?
This is a license that all businesses should obtain prior to opening, or at opening. Your business may have been able to operate without this license because it was not known, but it is your duty as a business owner to obtain the proper licensing at all levels (City, State, Federal, etc.).
How often do I need to do this?
The New Business Permit and Certificate of Compliance (CoC) do not have expiration dates. You only need to apply for your New Business Permit once, and will never need to renew the permit.
While a CoC will never expire, if you undergo structural changes in your space (i.e. expansion that increases your occupant load) then you will need to have an updated CoC issued.
What will happen if I don't apply for the permits?
Like all licenses and permits (at the State, Local, and City levels) it is the sole responsibility of each business to apply and/or renew licenses and permits. With that being said, not obtaining the proper permits for your business could result in fines or harsher penalties. Not applying is up to you as a business, just be mindful of what could happen if a governing body (city, county, or state) responds to the lack of permitting.
What is a Certificate of Compliance?
A Certificate of Compliance is needed when a space is newly occupied, to ensure that the space is properly inspected for the intended type of use. For example, a restaurant will have different occupancy compliance requirements than a photography studio.
What should I expect for a Certificate of Compliance Inspection?
An in-person inspection by a City of York employee is required in order to obtain your final CoC. At a high-level, once you pay the fee for the inspection you will call in to schedule an inspection. CoC Inspections are never a surprise so you will have time to prepare your space.
If issues are identified at the time of your initial inspection, the inspection contact (you or your designee) will be provided with a written list of the issues that must be resolved. Some of the issues may be things that you must notify the building owner of so that it can be resolved. Other items may be related to the equipment you have in your space. (See the next question for common things to consider.)
Generally, you are issues a temporary CoC (usually for 30 days) in which you will have that time to resolve all issues. Once all of the issues are corrected, you will call the City again to schedule a re-inspection. There are fees that apply to re-inspection. You will be re-inspected and issued either a permanent CoC if no further issues are found, or another temporary CoC if more things are identified.
Every industry is different, but the best rule of thumb is to use your best judgement and common sense when preparing for a CoC inspection.
This part of the process is often the most frustrating, and rightfully so. However, this is to ensure that every business operating in York City is safe and up to code. As annoying as it may be, it is necessary. Other surrounding cities have experienced massive damage to businesses because the spaces were not up to code. Including roof collapses, electrical fires, water damage, etc.
How do I prepare for my Certificate of Compliance Inspection?
Preparing for a Certificate of Compliance (CoC) Inspection
1. Ensure Your Space is “Operational”
• Your business should be open for operation and set up exactly as it would be when serving clients.
2. Fire Safety & Emergency Preparedness
• Fire extinguishers (if required) must be in their designated location with visible signage.
• Emergency exit signs must be clearly marked and unobstructed. • Exits must be accessible without a key during operational hours.
• Don’t block breaker boxes, emergency lighting, emergency signage, or exits when placing furniture and décor.
• Smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and emergency lighting may all be required.
• If the space has 3 or more floors or multiple buildings, floor and/or building numbering will be required.
3. Electrical Safety
• All appliances must be plugged directly into an appropriate wall outlet (e.g., air conditioners, heaters, mini-fridges).
• Minimize the use of multi-taps (devices that turn 2 outlets into 4+), as they can easily overload circuits.
• Surge protectors should be used for low-voltage electronics (e.g., POS register, phone chargers).
• Any exposed wires must be properly capped, covered, or removed depending on their source.
• Any outlets near a water source (kitchen, bathroom, washer/dryer, outdoor bar, mop sink, etc.) must be GFCI protected.
4. Accessibility & Structural Safety
• Spaces where customers will walk must have a minimum clearance of 3 feet.
• Stairs often require handrails.
This is not an exhaustive list, but it serves as a strong starting point for preparing for a CoC inspection. For code-specific questions, reach out to the Bureau of Permits and Inspections. If you have concerns about your upcoming inspection, contact them as early as possible. Addressing questions and clarifications in advance can help ensure a smooth inspection process and reduce the need for reinspection.
Creative Catalyst Consulting, LLC
