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1. Is Open for Business a requirement to open my business?

No, this free service is not required to open a business in the City of Branson.

2. Who do I contact first?

Contact the Planning and Development Department at 417-337-8549 to visit with a staff representative who will be happy to assist in providing information about Open for Business. Staff will assist in answering questions and determine if an OFB meeting is right for you.

Click here for a contact information list.

3. How much does a business license cost?

Fees are based on the highest expected number of employees in the Branson business. The business license application registration fee is due at the time the application is submitted to the Finance Department.


For further assistance, contact 417-337-8553.

4. How can I find out if a location is zoned for my business?

Contact the Planning and Development Department at 417-337-8549 to speak with a Planner. They will be happy to assist you with questions pertaining to a preliminary site plan, parking, setbacks, and easements.

5. I am opening a new business. Can I have banners or signs that announce that my business will be opening soon, and do I need a permit?

Yes, with an approved permit.

Your business is allowed a banner, yard or a-frame sign based on the requirements within your zoning district. On-premise temporary signs may be displayed a maximum of 30 days per year. The permitted display duration shall be restarted for an additional 30 days when a business at a specific address changes ownership within a given year.

Temporary Sign Permit Application

6. What is a business plan and do I need one for Open for Business?

The City of Branson Open for Business Program is a resource to assist businesses interested in locating, growing or expanding a business. A business plan is recommend, but not required, when operating a business.


A business plan precisely defines your business, identifies your goals and serves as your firm's resume. It describes the products and services you will sell, the customers to whom you will sell them, the production, management and marketing activities needed to produce your offerings, and the projected profit or loss that will result from your efforts.


The business plan allows you to apply your research to your decision-making. Although a plan is time consuming, it is important to business success. Completing the plan forces you to examine all decisions of management, marketing, personnel and finance in an objective and organized way. Another important benefit of the planning process is that you will project the amount of financing needed for start-up and the early stages of your business. Therefore, the business plan becomes a useful tool in securing capital before start-up. Then the plan becomes your owner's manual guiding your daily operation and activities. Business planning is an ongoing activity. Existing businesses, as well as start-up firms benefit from writing and updating their goals, plans and activities.


Technical assistance and training is available throughout the state of Missouri to help you develop a business plan. Service providers, such as the MOSourceLINK and U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), specialize in providing help you develop your business plan. They also sponsor specialized training sessions for small businesses and potential entrepreneurs.

7. Where do find and submit my business license application?

You can download a business license application form or you may pick up a form at the Finance Department at City Hall located at 110 W. Maddux Street, Suite 200, Branson, MO 65616. Please submit your application form to the Finance Department.

Business License Application Form

8. How long will it take for my business license to be processed?

The normal processing time for a business license application is three (3) to five (5) business days once all required documentation has been supplied to the City. This includes all applicable approved inspections.

9. How long is my City of Branson business license valid?

Your business license is valid May 1st through April 30th the following year.

10. Do I need a building permit?

A building permit must be obtained prior to commencing any new construction or alterations to an existing structure. This includes, but not limited to, some of the following projects:

• New Building
• Additions
• Renovations
• Demolition
• Prefabricated Structures
• Temporary Buildings
• Electrical Systems
• HVAC Systems
• Plumbing
• Signs
• Landscaping

The plan review process and subsequent inspections protect you, your family, friends, and future owners against the potential hazards of unsafe construction. It also protects your investment, as many insurers do not pay claims on construction performed without the benefit of a building permit, the required inspections, and certificate of occupancy.

Applications can also be downloaded here.