Ready for Business?

Thinking of making some physical changes to your business's location? Get ahead by learning what the state requires for building codes so you can be prepared. Use the fact sheet option to read the rules and their corresponding regulations.

Why are there so many codes? The state is heavy on regulations as a way to ensure safety, health, and enjoyment of the premises. While it can be frustrating and seem tedious, proper adherence could save a life and at very least, reduce injury, whereby saving the business money in the end. 

Visit the Dept of Labor & Industry for more: https://www.dli.mn.gov/business/codes-and-laws and see what new businesses need to know: https://www.dli.mn.gov/business/codes-and-laws/starting-business-what-know

We're here to answer questions on items you might need. Below are some helpful buttons to assist. For questions related to:

• Permitting, Planning and Zoning, Transit, Inspections, and Facilities Management contact Community Development: (218) 773-2208
• Licenses, Regulations, Fees contact City Administration: (218) 773-2483
• Need a food truck inspection contact the Fire Department : (218) 773-2403
• City business licenses and fees: https://www.eastgrandforks.us/DocumentCenter/View/2825

While this is not a comprehensive listing, these are some items that are helpful in getting your business going.

• MN ID: Similar to the federal employer ID number (EIN), the state requires businesses to have a registration number (MN ID) as well. Register here: https://www.mndor.state.mn.us/tp/eservices/_/?link=NewBusinessReg
• Sales & Use Fees: Minnesota Department of Revenue requires specific tax and license reporting based on the type of business. Below are a few commonly required ones. Make sure to set up accounts for your withholding and/or sales & use tax. Use the link to learn more: https://www.revenue.state.mn.us/business-taxes-and-fees
• Business Filing: Annual filings and fees for Minnesota: https://www.sos.state.mn.us/business-liens/start-a-business/business-filing-certification-fee-schedule/
• Buildouts & Renovations: State resources for construction licenses, permits, plumbing, and more: https://www.dli.mn.gov/business/license-forms-permits-plan-review-and-local-governments
• Workers Comp: Access the state's workers compensation info page: https://www.dli.mn.gov/business/workers-compensation
• Paid Leave: Learn about the Paid Leave employer responsibilities: https://mn.gov/deed/paidleave/
• Unemployment: Have employees? Create your business's unemployment insurance portal: https://www.uimn.org/employers/index.jsp

Here are some key items for all businesses. Keep in mind this is an incomplete listing of requirements.

• Taxes: The federal government requires employer reporting and licensing.  See what is required of your business: https://www.irs.gov/businesses/business-taxes
• Filings: Annual federal filings and definitions: https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/forms-for-corporations
• EIN: Planning on hiring staff one day or scaling the company? Make sure to set up an employer ID to do your business under. Need to close the business? Don't forget to deactivate your EIN. They can't be deleted but you can request to have the number deactivated. 
• BOI: There's been a lot of back & forth on this one in the courts. It was determined this is a necessary requirement of businesses. Use the link below to create an initial listing and update if there are any changes made to the leadership or location of the business.