Legal Aspectsof Starting a BusinessBusiness Management

Today’s Objectives

Objectives Essential Questions

Identify current laws and regulations affecting the establishment and operation of businesses.

Analyze business plan development.

What documents do I need to complete to go into business in Loudoun County?

Can I identify the purpose of each element of a business plan?

Business Licenses & Permits

State and local governments use licensing as a way to limit and control those who plan to enter certain types of businesses.

Business owners must file an application to obtain a business license.

Professional LicensingEmployees at service businesses may be required to hold a professional license.

Examples include:◦Real Estate◦Body Art◦Home Inspection◦Health Professions

InspectionsBusinesses are also

regulated by regular inspections by government officials.

Inspections ensure that the company is operated according to the law.

Violators may lose their business license.

Building Codes & Zoning

Building codes control the physical features of structures.◦Maximum height◦Minimum square footage◦Types of materials

Zoning regulations specify which land areas may be used for home and which may be used for businesses.

OSHA RegulationsThe Occupational Safety & Health Administration is a federal agency that enforces safety and health regulations.

OSHA ensures safe and healthful working conditions.

Statutes of ADAThe Americans with Disabilities Act prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities.

Business owners may be required to provide reasonable accommodations for employees and customers.

Starting a Business in Loudoun County

Steps to Starting a New Business

http://www.loudoun.gov/index.aspx?nid=1583

Business ProjectDecide on a business and a product.

◦Exchange contact information with all business partners.

Complete business license.Begin writing your business plan

◦Management Team Plan◦Company Description◦Product/Service Plan◦Vision and Mission Statements◦Industry Overview