Doing business in the Pittsburgh District

SBA’s Business Guide lists the requirements needed to start, grow, and expand your business. Since laws and taxes vary by state, here’s what you need to do before starting your business in our area.

Business name and registration

Register your business name with the county clerk where your business is located. If you are a corporation, you will also need to register with the Secretary of the Commonwealth.

Business licensing and zoning

Licenses are typically administered by a variety of state and local departments. It is important to consider zoning regulations when choosing a site for your business. Contact the local business license office where you plan to locate your business. You may not be permitted to conduct business out of your home or engage in industrial activity in a retail district. If necessary, secure professional licensing. 

Taxes

Pittsburgh Taxpayer Assistance Center
1000 Liberty Ave.
Pittsburgh, PA 15222 
Phone: 267-941-6800

Pennsylvania Department of Revenue Services
1133 Strawberry St.
Harrisburg, PA 17128
Phone: 717-783-1405

Health and safety

Pennsylvania Department of Labor
651 Boas St.
Harrisburg, PA 17121
Phone: 717-787-5279

Pennsylvania OSHA
1000 Liberty Ave., Room 905
Pittsburgh, PA 15222
Phone: 412-395-4903

Need information on the local business landscape? SBA's Office of Advocacy has the latest demographic and statistics on local small business economic activity.