Starting a New Business

The County of Nelson requires zoning approval and a business license.  If you want to begin a business in Nelson County:

1. Call the Director of Planning and Zoning at 434-263-7090 or visit his office at 80 Front Street to ensure that the business is permitted in the property of your choice.
   
2. Contact the Virginia Department of Transportation about the property entrance requirements. 434-946-7631
   
3. Visit the Commissioner of Revenue located on the first floor of the courthouse building to obtain your proper business license. For questions call the Commissioner of Revenue at 434-263-7070.

 
Starting a business from a location other than your home.
 
The Planning/Zoning and Building Inspection process approves in the following order:

1. Zoning compatibility
2. Change of Use permits
3. Site Plan review
4. Building Permit
5. Certificate of Occupancy

If the business is not in an approved zoning designation, see the Director of Planning and Zoning.
 
A food establishment must be approved by the Health Department, before receiving a license.

• Fictitious trade names must be registered with the Clerk of the Circuit Court at 434-263-7020.
• If a business is incorporated, registration with the State Corporation Commission is required. 866-722-2551

The Commissioner of Revenue requires licenses for:

• Contractors
• Retail establishments
• Professional
• Service/Repair
• Wholesale

Starting a business in your home.

1. You will need approval for a Home Occupation Permit from the Planning Office at 434-263-7090.
2. Return the completed permit application to the Planning Office for review.
3. The Planning Office will forward the application to the Building Inspector for additional review, if necessary.
4. When all the reviews are completed, a decision is made to either grant or deny the business request. 

 
Nelson County Officials
 
County Administrator
Stephen Carter
434-263-7000
 
Planner
Fred Boger
434-263-7090
 
Building Official
434-263-7080
 
Commissioner of Revenue
Jean Payne
434-263-7070
 
Economic Development
Maureen Corum
434-263-7015

Virginia Business Assistance Internet Portal
Service Corps of Retired Executives