How to Obtain Your Cleaning Business Licenses State-by-State

Having the correct licenses for your cleaning business is crucial for legal compliance and credibility. Navigating the licensing process can be daunting due to varying state regulations and the need to register your business entity, whether a sole proprietorship, LLC, or DBA name.

This guide simplifies the process, providing state-specific information to ensure your business operates legally.

Aspire supports cleaning businesses by offering valuable resources and insights to streamline operations and compliance.

Key Takeaways

• Understand state-specific licensing requirements

• Simplify the licensing process with actionable steps

• Leverage Aspire’s resources for business success

Do I Need a License for My Cleaning Business?

The short answer is that it depends on many factors. In most locations, you cannot run any cleaning business without a license.

Generally, house and commercial cleaners, janitorial services, and those handling hazardous materials in the United States must have a business license to operate legally.

Offering professional and customized cleaning services, such as recurring, occasional, move-in, and in-depth cleaning services, can meet niche demand in competitive markets and help build lasting customer relationships.

Licenses ensure legal compliance, offering you a competitive advantage and reassuring clients of your legitimacy. They also open doors to larger contracts and potential business growth. Business licenses are issued by governmental bodies to regulate:

• Safety

• Zoning

• Taxation

• Other business requirements

While most states do not have a specific license for cleaning businesses, they usually require you to register your business and/or obtain a general business license.

See our state-specific contractor license requirements to learn more.

What Can I Do Without a License?

The short answer is not much. In most places, you cannot operate a cleaning business without a license.

Generally, both house cleaners and commercial cleaners must have a business license to operate legally.

Operating a cleaning business without a license can result in severe penalties and fines. It may also be considered fraud and is illegal across the nation. 

→ Running a business without proper licensing can limit your ability to secure clients and contracts and damage your reputation.

Commercial auto insurance is also essential for cleaning businesses that own vehicles as it covers legal costs, medical expenses, property damage, theft, vandalism, and non-accident losses.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Cleaning Business License?

Generally, getting your business license can take a few weeks to a few months.

Processing times vary based on local regulations and procedures. Different cities and states have their own timelines for reviewing applications and issuing licenses.

To expedite the process, ensure all your documentation is complete and accurate before submission. Some areas offer expedited services for an additional fee, which can shorten the wait time.

How Much Does a Business License Cost?

The cost of a business license can vary, usually from $50 to a few hundred dollars in the US.

Several factors affect the pricing, including the type of business, location, and local regulations. Additional costs may include application fees, processing fees, and renewal fees.

You may also need to budget for expenses such as registering your business, obtaining necessary permits, and purchasing equipment and cleaning supplies.

Account for these expenses by setting aside funds for licensing and related costs as part of your business plan.

What Are the Benefits of Getting a Cleaning Business License?

Obtaining a cleaning business license builds credibility and trust with clients, showing them you operate legally and professionally.

A licensed business can access larger contracts and opportunities that unlicensed operators cannot.

Long-term, operating legally helps avoid penalties and fines, ensuring stable growth because they attract more leads.

Key Benefits:

• Enhanced credibility and trust with clients

• Access to larger contracts and opportunities

• Protection from legal issues and fines

• Increased potential for business growth

• Greater chances of securing insurance and financing

• Ability to offer tailored home cleaning services, leading to higher customer satisfaction

What Are the Essential Steps to Get a Cleaning License?

Getting your business license in the United States involves some steps and considerations.

First, decide on your business structure, such as a sole proprietor or a limited liability company (LLC). This decision impacts your:

• Liability

• IRS reporting

• Tax purposes

• Setup of your cleaning business

Then, if you plan to use a specific name, you'll likely need to register a "Doing Business As" (DBA) name.

Finally, you must consider getting business insurance to protect against potential risks and liabilities. Insurance agents can provide tailored coverage for cleaning businesses, ensuring the right protection for your industry.

1. Research and Gather Information

Start by thoroughly researching your state's specific licensing requirements for cleaning businesses. Based on your services and location, identify the types of licenses and permits you need. Make a list of the required documentation and forms to keep yourself organized.

2. Choose a Business Structure

Decide on the legal structure for your cleaning business (sole proprietorship, LLC, corporation, etc.). Understand how your choice impacts licensing, liability, and taxes.

3. Register Your Business Name

If you're operating under a specific name, register it with your state or local government. Check for name availability and ensure you're not infringing on any trademarks.

4. Obtain Necessary Permits and Licenses

Complete and submit the necessary applications with the required fees. Ensure to provide any additional documentation, like proof of insurance or bonding. Keep an eye on your application status and be ready to respond to any additional requests.

5. Secure Insurance and Bonding

Ensure you have the necessary insurance coverage for your cleaning business, such as general liability insurance. As soon as you hire your first employee, most states will require you to carry workers' compensation insurance.

This type of insurance helps cover injured workers' medical bills and reimburses them for lost wages. It typically includes employer's liability insurance to protect business owners in case of employee lawsuits related to work-related injuries. Secure a surety bond to protect your clients in case of damages or non-performance.

Next, we shall look into state-by-state licensing.

How to Get a Cleaning Business License: State-By-State

Alabama

• To start a cleaning business in Alabama, file your business and apply for a business license with the Secretary of State (SOS).

• Follow tax regulations and pay income and business taxes as required.

• Check with your local city or county for additional legal requirements.

Alaska

• To start a cleaning business in Alaska, you must register and apply for a business license with the Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development.

• Check with your local city or county for additional legal requirements.

Arizona

• To start your cleaning business in Arizona, register for a tax ID number with the Arizona Secretary of State (SOS).

• Ensure all necessary registrations are completed with the Arizona SOS.

• Check with your local city or county for additional legal requirements.

Arkansas

• To get your cleaning business license in Arkansas, register your business with the county clerk’s office.

• Follow tax regulations by registering and paying sales taxes through the Arkansas Taxpayer Access Point.

• Check with your local city or county for additional legal requirements.

California

• To start your cleaning business in California, apply through CalGold.

• Register with the California Franchise Tax Board.

• Check with your local city or county for additional legal requirements.

Colorado

• To start your cleaning business in Colorado, register your business name through Colorado’s business registry portal MyBizColorado.

• Apply for a business license in the county where you plan to work.

• Check with your local city or county for additional legal requirements.

Connecticut

• To start your cleaning business in Connecticut, register with the Secretary of State (SOS).

• Check with your local city or county for additional legal requirements.

Delaware

• To start your cleaning business in Delaware, register for a business license through the Delaware One Stop Business Portal.

• Select an appropriate business structure with a business bank account, like an LLC.

• Check with your local city or county for additional legal requirements.

Florida

• To start a cleaning business in Florida, register with the Florida Department of State Division of Corporations.

• Use the department’s online portal, Sunbiz, to register.

• Check with your local city or county for additional legal requirements.

Georgia

• To start your cleaning business in Georgia, register with the Georgia Secretary of State (SOS).

• Check with your local city or county for additional legal requirements.

Hawaii

• To start your cleaning business in Hawaii, register with Hawaii Business Express.

• Check with your local city or county for additional legal requirements.

Idaho

• To start your cleaning business in Idaho, apply for a business license with the Idaho Secretary of State.

• Apply for specific regional licenses or permits through the Idaho Business Registration System.

• Check with your local city or county for additional legal requirements.

Illinois

• To start your cleaning business in Illinois, register with the Illinois Secretary of State (SOS).

• Obtain a tax ID number from My Tax Illinois.

• Check with your local city or county for additional legal requirements.

Indiana

• To start your cleaning business in Indiana, register with the State Government’s Business Division.

• If applicable, obtain an assumed business name certificate from the County Recorder’s Office.

• Check with your local city or county for additional legal requirements.

Iowa

• To start your cleaning business in Iowa, register with the Iowa Secretary of State (SOS).

• Acquire an employee identification number (EIN).

• Check with your local city or county for additional legal requirements.

Kansas

• To start your cleaning business in Kansas, register with the Kansas Secretary of State and the Kansas Department of Revenue.

• Check with your local city or county for additional legal requirements.

Kentucky

• To start your cleaning business in Kentucky, register for a business license through the One Stop Business Portal. 

• Check with your local city or county for additional legal requirements.

Louisiana

• To start your cleaning company in Louisiana, apply for licenses and permits through the Louisiana Secretary of State.

• Check with your local city or county for additional legal requirements.

Maine

• To start your cleaning business in Maine, register with the Maine Secretary of State (SOS) and local government offices.

• Get your business license from the SOS.

• Check local tax requirements and regulations.

Maryland

• To start your cleaning business in Maryland, register with Maryland Business Express.

• Check with your local city or county for additional legal requirements.

Massachusetts

• To start your cleaning business in Massachusetts, register with the Massachusetts Secretary of State (SOS).

• Sign up with Massachusetts Tax Connect.

• Consult your county clerk’s office for local licenses or permits.

Michigan

• To start your cleaning business in Michigan, register with the Michigan Secretary of State (SOS).

• Register for a tax ID on Michigan Treasury Online.

• Check your county clerk’s office for additional requirements.

Minnesota

• To start your cleaning business in Minnesota, register with the Minnesota Secretary of State (SOS).

• Pay appropriate taxes with the Minnesota Department of Revenue.

• Check with your local city or county for additional legal requirements.

Mississippi

• To start your cleaning business in Mississippi, register with the Mississippi Secretary of State (SOS).

• Fulfill sales and tax obligations with the Mississippi Department of Revenue.

• Consult your local county clerk’s office for additional documentation.

Missouri

• To start your cleaning industry company in Missouri, register with the Missouri Secretary of State (SOS).

• Register for taxes with the Missouri Department of Revenue.

• Consult your local county clerk’s office for additional documentation.

Montana

• To start your cleaning business in Montana, register with the Montana Secretary of State (SOS).

• File all necessary taxes with the Montana Department of Revenue.

• Consult your local county clerk’s office for additional documentation.

Nebraska

• To start your cleaning business in Nebraska, register with the Nebraska Secretary of State (SOS).

• Acquire a business license and adhere to tax laws using Nebraska’s one-stop-shop website.

• Consult your local county clerk’s office for additional documentation.

Nevada

• To start your cleaning industry company in Nevada, register with the Nevada Secretary of State (SOS).

• Use the NV SilverFlume web portal to complete the entire registration process.

• Consult your local county clerk’s office for additional documentation.

New Hampshire

• To start your cleaning business in New Hampshire, register with the New Hampshire Secretary of State (SOS).

• Use New Hampshire Quick Start to complete business structure formation and tax filings.

• Consult your local county clerk’s office for additional documentation.

New Jersey

• To start your cleaning industry company in New Jersey, register with the New Jersey Division of Revenue and Municipality Websites.

• Apply for a business license with the SOS.

• Register with the Department of Revenue and Enterprise Service.

• Check with your local city or county for additional legal requirements.

New Mexico

• To start your cleaning business in New Mexico, register with the New Mexico Secretary of State (SOS).

• File for sales tax, paycheck withholdings, and estimated income tax with the Taxation & Revenue Department.

• Check with your local city or county for additional legal requirements.

New York

• To start your small business in New York, register with the New York Department of State (SOS).

• Use the State of New York’s Business Wizard for all registration and tax documents.

• Check with your local city or county for additional legal requirements.

North Carolina

• To start your cleaning business in North Carolina, register with the North Carolina Secretary of State (SOS).

• Register with the NC Department of Revenue.

• Obtain an Assumed Name at the Register of Deeds Office.

• Check for local business license requirements.

North Dakota

• To start your small business in North Dakota, register with the North Dakota Secretary of State (SOS).

• Pay tax through the Taxpayer Access Point.

• Check for local business license requirements.

Ohio

• To start your cleaning business in Ohio, register with the Ohio Secretary of State (SOS).

• Pay necessary taxes and get a vendor’s license from the county auditor.

• Check local business license requirements.

Oklahoma

• To start your small business in Oklahoma, register with the Oklahoma Secretary of State and city or county websites.

• Pay taxes through the OK Taxpayer Access Point.

• Check local business license requirements.

Oregon

• To start your cleaning company in Oregon, register with the Oregon Secretary of State (SOS).

• Apply for a Business Identification Number.

• Check with your local city or county for additional legal requirements.

Pennsylvania

• To start your cleaning business in Pennsylvania, register with the Pennsylvania Department of State.

• Register for a business activities license.

• Register for taxes through PA 100 Online Tax Registration.

• Check with your local city or county for additional legal requirements.

Rhode Island

• To start your cleaning company in Rhode Island, register with the Rhode Island Secretary of State for a business license.

• Use Rhode Island Business Assistant and Rhode Island League of Cities and Towns for guidance.

• Check local business license requirements.

South Carolina

• To start your cleaning business in South Carolina, register with the South Carolina Secretary of State (SOS).

• Check with your local city or county for additional legal requirements.

South Dakota

• To begin your cleaning company in South Dakota, register your DBA with the South Dakota Secretary of State (SOS).

• File for a sales tax license with the Department of Revenue.

• Check local business licensing requirements.

Tennessee

• To start your cleaning business in Tennessee, register with the Tennessee Secretary of State (SOS).

• Register for sales and use tax with the Department of Revenue.

• Check local business licensing requirements.

Texas

• To start your cleaning company in Texas, register with the Texas Secretary of State (SOS).

• Register for sales and use tax with the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts.

• Check with your local city or county for additional legal requirements.

Utah

• To start your cleaning business in Utah, register with the Utah Department of Commerce.

• File for a sales tax license with the Utah State Tax Commission.

• Check local business licensing requirements.

Vermont

• To start your cleaning business in Vermont, register with the Vermont Secretary of State (SOS).

• Register for sales and use tax, and if you have employees, register with the Vermont Department of Taxes and the Vermont Department of Labor.

• Check local business licensing requirements.

Virginia

• To start your cleaning business in Virginia, register with the Virginia State Corporation Commission (VSCC).

• Register for and use tax.

• Register for employer withholding taxes and unemployment insurance if you have employees with the Virginia Department of Taxation and the Virginia Employment Commission.

• Check with your local city or county for additional legal requirements.

Washington

• To start your cleaning business in Washington, register with the Washington Secretary of State (SOS).

• Register for a Unified Business Identifier (UBI).

• File for a state business license with the Washington State Department of Revenue.

• Check with your local city or county for additional legal requirements.

West Virginia

• To start your cleaning business in West Virginia, register with the West Virginia Secretary of State (SOS).

• If you have employees, register for sales and use tax, withholding taxes, and unemployment taxes with the West Virginia State Tax Department and the West Virginia Division of Labor.

• Check with your local city or county for additional legal requirements.

Wisconsin

• To start your cleaning business in Wisconsin, register with the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (DFI). 

• Register for a state Employer Identification Number (EIN).

• If applicable, file for a seller’s permit with the Wisconsin Department of Revenue.

• Check with your local city or county for additional legal requirements.

Wyoming

• To start your cleaning business in Wyoming, register with the Wyoming Secretary of State (SOS).

• Register for sales and use tax with the Wyoming Department of Revenue.

• Check with your local city or county for additional licensing requirements.

Get Licensed and Grow Your Business

When getting licenses, carefully read through all the steps for obtaining your cleaning business license, including:

• Researching requirements

• Choosing a business structure

• Registering your name

• Obtaining permits

• Securing insurance

Licensing builds credibility, opens doors to larger contracts, and ensures legal compliance.

To grow your business, focus on effective marketing, excellent customer service, and upselling strategies. 

Aspire’s commercial cleaning software optimizes workflows from estimating to invoicing, enhancing communication and accountability. With features like drag-and-drop scheduling and real-time job costing, Aspire helps increase productivity and your profit margins.

Book a free demo with Aspire.