Starting a Business

Got a great business idea? We’ve got a place for you in Warrenton, with resources and knowledge to take you from business plan to business success.

Warrenton is a thriving and welcoming place to do business, especially for entrepreneurs. The Town of Warrenton, Fauquier County and community partners work together to set you up for success, including:

Business Incubator (Mason Enterprise Center)

George Mason University and Fauquier County established the county’s first business incubator in 2013 at 70 Main Street in Warrenton. The facility offers everything you need that isn’t easy to get at your home office, and more including:

  • Low cost and flexible office space
  • Dedicated co-working space
  • Physical mailing address
  • Conference room space
  • Business counseling
  • Entrepreneurial environment

Business Counseling & Training

Warrenton is fortunate to have a multitude of support for small businesses, including training and counseling sessions on business plans, financial projections, and more. Free sessions are available monthly at the Mason Enterprise Center from experienced business professionals from the Small Business Development Center and the Greater Warrenton Chamber of Commerce. Space is limited. Call (540) 216-7100 for more information and to reserve an upcoming appointment.

Warrenton Data

Finding the right information can be difficult. Allow us to help, with our Community Profile, collection of maps, and customizable industry reports. We can also help direct you to an array of other information resources.

Getting Your Business Off the Ground

When you’re ready, we’re here to help you get your business off the ground, including:

Site Selection Assistance

We work closely with local commercial brokers to ensure you know about all the properties that are right for you, including many that can’t be found in online listings.

Incentives & Supplementary Funding

The Town of Warrenton and Fauquier County both recognize the value of a strong business community and we are here to help you identify local, state, and federal programs that can help.

Opening Your Warrenton Location

Once you know that Warrenton is the right choice for your business, we’re ready to guide you through the process of opening. From taxes to signage, we’re here to help every step of the way.

You can find a copy of the Business License Application (PDF) online.

  1. Step 1: Name Registration & State Licensing
  2. Step 2: Zoning Approval for Business License
  3. Step 3: Business License & Tax Requirements
  4. Step 4: Sign Permit(s)
  5. Step 5: Virginia Department of Health Permit (if applicable)
  6. Step 6: Building Permit and Building Plans From the Town

Business Structure

Businesses can be sole proprietorships, partnerships, or corporations depending on the type of business, business goals, and personal finances. An attorney, accountant, or business counselor who is familiar with your type of business can help you determine your business structure. The structure of your business will determine its proper registration.

Sole Proprietorships & Partnerships

Individuals and partnerships should register trade names with the Fauquier County Clerk of the Court. To register a trade name or partnership contact:
Fauquier County Clerk of the Court
29 Ashby Street
Warrenton, VA 20186
Phone: (540) 422-8100

Corporations & Limited Partnerships

Corporations and limited partnerships must file with the State Corporation Commission before a state or town license can be issued. If you are incorporated and located within the state of Virginia contact:
Virginia State Corporation Commission, Clerk’s Office
PO Box 1197
Richmond, VA 23218
Phone: (804) 371-9967

Virginia Regulated & Licensed Businesses

Virginia regulates certain businesses, professions, and occupations. Minimum standards for education, training and written or oral tests must be met before entry into these professions are allowed. The state also requires licensing for certain businesses other than for regulation, including general contractors and tradesmen. For more information on licensing requirements and applicable fees contact:
Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation
3600 W Broad Street
Richmond, VA 23230-4917
Phone: (804) 367-8500

General Contractors & Tradesmen

Contractors and tradesmen must register their business with the state. To bid on or undertake a job, contractors must possess a proper license from the State Board of Contractors, call (804) 367-8511.