one-stop biz ctr ppt may 2010

8/9/2019 One-Stop Biz Ctr PPT May 2010

1/52

City of HoustonCity of Houston

ONE STOPONE STOP

BUSINESS CENTERBUSINESS CENTER

AFFIRMATIVE ACTIONAFFIRMATIVE ACTIONAND CONTRACT COMPLIANCE DIVISIONAND CONTRACT COMPLIANCE DIVISION

Velma J. Laws, DirectorVelma J. Laws, Director

832.393.09543.1.1


2/52

One Stop Business Center (OSBC)One Stop Business Center (OSBC)

THE ONE STOP BUSINESS CENTER IS A FREETHE ONE STOP BUSINESS CENTER IS A FREE

INFORMATION CLEARINGHOUSE FOR NEW,INFORMATION CLEARINGHOUSE FOR NEW,

EXPANDING, AND RELOCATING BUSINESSES IN THEEXPANDING, AND RELOCATING BUSINESSES IN THE

HOUSTON REGION.HOUSTON REGION. THE CENTER IS UNIQUE IN TEXAS.THE CENTER IS UNIQUE IN TEXAS.


3/52

ONE STOP BUSINESS CENTERONE STOP BUSINESS CENTER

ServicesServices

INFORMATION:INFORMATION: Provides concise information in one placeProvides concise information in one place

ASSISTANCE:ASSISTANCE: Helps businesses concentrate on marketing,Helps businesses concentrate on marketing,

competition and growth issuescompetition and growth issues

COMPLIANCE:COMPLIANCE: Helps businesses comply with local, state, andHelps businesses comply with local, state, andfederal permits, licenses and requirements. We refer businesses tofederal permits, licenses and requirements. We refer businesses to

govt. agencies for detailed requirementsgovt. agencies for detailed requirements


4/52


ServicesServices

PUBLICATIONS:PUBLICATIONS: SOURCES of ASSISTANCE and CONTRACTINGSOURCES of ASSISTANCE and CONTRACTING

GUIDE for companies selling products or services to the City ofGUIDE for companies selling products or services to the City ofHoustonHouston

TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE:TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: Provides referrals to sources ofProvides referrals to sources of

technical assistance, counseling, mentoring, networking, incubators,technical assistance, counseling, mentoring, networking, incubators,

workshops, and educationworkshops, and education

FINANCING INFO:FINANCING INFO: Provides information on financing programsProvides information on financing programs

and local incentives for small businessesand local incentives for small businesses


5/52


ServicesServices

MWDBE/SBE:MWDBE/SBE: Refers Minority, Women, and financiallyRefers Minority, Women, and financially

disadvantaged businesses to certification, HUB programs, anddisadvantaged businesses to certification, HUB programs, and

government contracting opportunitiesgovernment contracting opportunities

DCA:DCA: Provides trouble shooting and liaisonProvides trouble shooting and liaison-- DCADCA

WORKSHOPS:WORKSHOPS: Hosts business workshops coHosts business workshops co--sponsored bysponsored by

Houston Public Library and other agencies.Houston Public Library and other agencies.

SCORE:SCORE: Hosts SCORE counseling service in the City Hall Annex.Hosts SCORE counseling service in the City Hall Annex.


6/52

The Getting Started PacketThe Getting Started Packet

PACKET IS UNIQUE AND FREE OF CHARGE

GETTING STARTED PACKET CONTAINS INFORMATION

ON PERMITS AND LICENSES NECESSARY TO OPERATE A

BUSINESS IN HOUSTON/HARRIS COUNTY. The paper

version of the GSP is geared towards permitting and

regulatory issues, while the online version (more

complete) has additional details and in-depth materials.

- Also available on CD -


7/52

Referrals to Regulatory AgenciesReferrals to Regulatory Agencies

OSBC refers people to governmentOSBC refers people to government

agencies for permits, licenses, regulations,agencies for permits, licenses, regulations,

forms, applications, ordinances andforms, applications, ordinances and

statutes, as well as fee schedules.statutes, as well as fee schedules.

THESE ARE OFTEN AVAILABLE FREE OFTHESE ARE OFTEN AVAILABLE FREE OF

CHARGE ON THE AGENCY WEBSITE.CHARGE ON THE AGENCY WEBSITE. (In(In--depthdepth

information is best provided by the administeringinformation is best provided by the administering

agency.)agency.)


8/52

PUBLICATIONS and CDsPUBLICATIONS and CDsAAD's Sources of Assistance &AAD's Sources of Assistance &

Contracting GuideContracting Guide

The OSBC updates and publishes 2 great resources for potential vendors with theThe OSBC updates and publishes 2 great resources for potential vendors with the

City of Houston:City of Houston:

SOURCES OF ASSISTANCE:SOURCES OF ASSISTANCE: A comprehensive guide to resources forA comprehensive guide to resources forMWDBEMWDBE--SBE certified companies in Houston.SBE certified companies in Houston.

CONTRACTING GUIDE: FCONTRACTING GUIDE: For businesses selling goods and services to theor businesses selling goods and services to theCity of Houston. Lists all COH personnel who interface with vendors, withCity of Houston. Lists all COH personnel who interface with vendors, with

phone numbers and addresses.phone numbers and addresses.

Available in hard copy, CD, or on the COH website.Available in hard copy, CD, or on the COH website.www.houstontx.gov/aacc/index.htmlwww.houstontx.gov/aacc/index.html


9/52

Technical i tance, cati n,Technical i tance, cati n,

andTraining eferralandTraining eferral

OSBC refers clients to Houston area sources of free or lowOSBC refers clients to Houston area sources of free or low

cost technical or management assistance, educationalcost technical or management assistance, educational

opportunities, seminars and workshops, and business planopportunities, seminars and workshops, and business plan

support.support.

SCORESCORE

UH SBDCUH SBDC

Internal Revenue ServiceInternal Revenue Service

TSU Economic Development CenterTSU Economic Development Center

Minority Business Enterprise CenterMinority Business Enterprise CenterExecutive Service Corps (nonExecutive Service Corps (non--profits)profits)

Employer Training, EEO, and ADA Compliance SectionEmployer Training, EEO, and ADA Compliance Section

COH/AAD, www.oshacampus.comCOH/AAD, www.oshacampus.com


10/52

Loan Information and ReferralsLoan Information and Referrals

OSBC DOES NOT PROVIDE

BUSINESS FINANCING!!

OSBC provides information on public loan programs and

business incentives, including the SBA, Houston Business

Development, and others. One Stop DOES NOT provide

direct private lender referrals- you must contact a private

lender or the SBA for referrals.

The Houston SBA office maintains a list of Preferred Certified

Lenders and Microloan companies. Call them at

713.773.6500 for private lender referrals.


11/52

City of HoustonCity of Houston

Financial IncentivesFinancial Incentives(not loan programs)(not loan programs)

Enterprise ZonesEnterprise Zones

Tax Increment Reinvestment Zones (TIRZ)(see list ofTax Increment Reinvestment Zones (TIRZ)(see list ofcurrent TIRZs at:current TIRZs at:www.houstontx.gov/planning/economic_dev/tirz.htm#cur_tirzwww.houstontx.gov/planning/economic_dev/tirz.htm#cur_tirz

Tax Abatements (Inactive)Tax Abatements (Inactive)

Public Improvement Districts (PIDs)Public Improvement Districts (PIDs)

Municipal Management Districts (MMDs)Municipal Management Districts (MMDs)

Website:Website:www.houstontx.gov/planning/economic_dev/abt_eco_dev.htmwww.houstontx.gov/planning/economic_dev/abt_eco_dev.htm


12/52

DefinitionsDefinitions-- ED IncentivesED Incentives

Enterprise Zone:Enterprise Zone: Texas Enterprise Zone encourage job creation and capitalTexas Enterprise Zone encourage job creation and capitalinvestment in areas of economic distress by removing governmentalinvestment in areas of economic distress by removing governmentalregulatory barriers to economic growth and to provide tax incentives andregulatory barriers to economic growth and to provide tax incentives andother benefits.other benefits.

Tax Increment Redevelopment Zones (TIRZs) :Tax Increment Redevelopment Zones (TIRZs) : TIRZs help finance theTIRZs help finance thecost of redeveloping or encouraging infill development in an area thatcost of redeveloping or encouraging infill development in an area thatwould otherwise not attract sufficient market development in a timelywould otherwise not attract sufficient market development in a timelymanner. Taxes attributable to new improvements (tax increment) are setmanner. Taxes attributable to new improvements (tax increment) are set--aside in a fund to finance public improvements in the zone.aside in a fund to finance public improvements in the zone.

Public Improvement Districts (PIDs):Public Improvement Districts (PIDs): PIDs are created by the City ofPIDs are created by the City ofHouston to provide limited special services and improvements above andHouston to provide limited special services and improvements above andbeyond what is normally provided by the City. Examples includebeyond what is normally provided by the City. Examples include

landscaping, parking, enhanced security and marketing.landscaping, parking, enhanced security and marketing.

CONTACT: Planning and Development: 713CONTACT: Planning and Development: 713--837837--77017701


13/52

Grant InformationGrant Information(Financing)(Financing)

Basic grant resources for small businesses:Basic grant resources for small businesses:

www.grants.gov (good general resource)www.grants.gov (good general resource)

Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (www.cfda.gov)Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (www.cfda.gov)

The Foundation Center (foundationcenter.org)The Foundation Center (foundationcenter.org)www.business.govwww.business.gov

www.houstonlibrary.orgwww.houstonlibrary.org

City of Houston Housing andCity of Houston Housing and

Community Development Dept. (CDBG Grants)Community Development Dept. (CDBG Grants)

www.sba.gov/services/financialassistance/grants/index.htmlwww.sba.gov/services/financialassistance/grants/index.html

NOTE:NOTE: Grants are normally unavailable for start up companies.Grants are normally unavailable for start up companies.Before you pay someone promising grant money, contact theBefore you pay someone promising grant money, contact the

Texas Attorney General and check on their complaint recordTexas Attorney General and check on their complaint record

(713.223.5886). Also contact the Houston Better Business(713.223.5886). Also contact the Houston Better Business

Bureau @ 713Bureau @ 713--868868--9500.9500.


14/52

Business Plan BasicsBusiness Plan Basics

Creates an organized view of your business ideas

Helps identify your business strengths and weaknesses, as well as

your experience

Provides direction and contingenciesProvides an analysis of the target market

Describes your product, service, and pricing structure

A review of the management team and practices

Identifies capital requirements at start up and in the future

SOURCES: UHSBDC, SCORE, SBA WEBSITE (business plansoftware)


15/52

Affir ati eActi nAffir ati eActi n

ntract liance i i i nContractCompliance i i ion

AdministersAdministers Minority/Women/DisadvantagedBusinessMinority/Women/DisadvantagedBusiness

Enterprise (MWDBE) Program, Persons with DisabilitiesEnterprise (MWDBE) Program, Persons with DisabilitiesBusiness Enterprise (PDBE) Program, andthe Small BusinessBusiness Enterprise (PDBE) Program, andthe Small Business

Enterprise Program (SBE)Enterprise Program (SBE)

MonitorsMonitors payment of prevailing wages on city and federalpayment of prevailing wages on city and federal

construction contractsconstruction contracts

Cond

uctsCond

ucts periodi

c revi

ew of certi

fi

ed

busin

esses toin

sure theyperi

odi

c revi

ew of certi

fi

ed

busin

esses toin

sure theystill meet requirements ofthe programstill meetrequirements ofthe program


16/52

FREE PreFREE Pre--CertificationCertification

WorkshopsWorkshops

MWDBE / SBE / PWDBEMWDBE / SBE / PWDBE

FREEFREE PrePre--Certification Workshop Thursdays fromCertification Workshop Thursdays from22 -- 4 pm at the Affirmative Action Office, 611 Walker, 74 pm at the Affirmative Action Office, 611 Walker, 7thth Floor,Floor,Downtown Houston. Parking nearby (chargeDowntown Houston. Parking nearby (charge-- call for directions).call for directions).

HowHow--to do business with the City of Houston and other agenciesto do business with the City of Houston and other agencieswho recognize COH certification.who recognize COH certification.

Also provides handsAlso provides hands--on assistance with forms and applicationson assistance with forms and applicationsfor certification, and explains various goals and contractingfor certification, and explains various goals and contractingopportunities.opportunities.

CALL: 713CALL: 713--837837--90009000


17/52

MWDBE / SBE / PWDBEMWDBE / SBE / PWDBEAgencies Accepting CertificationAgencies Accepting Certification

The following agencies and companies accept City of HoustonThe following agencies and companies accept City of Houston

Certification as MWDBE/SBE/PWDBE. Certification is good for oneCertification as MWDBE/SBE/PWDBE. Certification is good for one

year, and is FREE OF CHARGE:year, and is FREE OF CHARGE:

KBRKBR

Houston Housing AuthorityHouston Housing Authority

Texas Southern UniversityTexas Southern University

Houston Independent School District (HISD)Houston Independent School District (HISD)

Port of HoustonPort of Houston

Houston Community College SystemHouston Community College SystemTexas Building and Procurement CommissionTexas Building and Procurement Commission

US Environmental Protection AgencyUS Environmental Protection Agency


18/52

Doing Business withDoing Business with

the City of Houstonthe City of Houston

Suppliers and contractors interested in selling products and services to the

City of Houston must submit a Supplier Registration Form. Before issuing a

purchase order or award, all vendors must be issued a vendor number. Thisregistration serves several other purposes:

Identifies you as a potential bidder

Captures contact information about your business

Identifies your company with required products and/or services.

SOURCE: purchasing.houstontx.gov/index.html

832-393-8800


19/52

CITY OF HOUSTONCITYOF HOUSTONOnline PurchasingCatalogOnline PurchasingCatalog

The Strategic Purchasing Divisions onlineThe Strategic Purchasing Divisions online

purchasing catalog contains variouspurchasing catalog contains various

categories of commodities, which have beencategories of commodities, which have beencompetitively bid and awarded by the City.competitively bid and awarded by the City.

Identify potential opportunities, andIdentify potential opportunities, and

participate in the competitive bid process!!participate in the competitive bid process!!

Catalog: http://purchasing.houstontx.gov/catalog/


20/52

S C O R ES C O R EManagement CounselingManagement Counseling

SCORE is "Counselors to America's Small BusinessSCORE is "Counselors to America's Small Business--

professionals with knowledge who donate their time toprofessionals with knowledge who donate their time to

help businesses succeed. Counselors are experts inhelp businesses succeed. Counselors are experts in

accounting, finance, marketing, management and businessaccounting, finance, marketing, management and business

plan preparation. All counseling is FREE OF CHARGE.plan preparation. All counseling is FREE OF CHARGE.

OSBC has a SCORE counselor at its City Hall Annex officeOSBC has a SCORE counselor at its City Hall Annex office

weekly, for oneweekly, for one--hour appointments, or at the main SCOREhour appointments, or at the main SCORE

office at 8701 S. Gessner (713office at 8701 S. Gessner (713--773773--6565)6565)

Call 832Call 832--393393--0954 to make an appointment!0954 to make an appointment!www.scorehouston,.orgwww.scorehouston,.org


21/52

OSBC FREE WORKSHOPSOSBC FREE WORKSHOPS

and Programsand Programs

Contact ONE STOP for dates and times for upcoming businessContact ONE STOP for dates and times for upcoming business

workshops. We do topic based (Ex: Business Planning andworkshops. We do topic based (Ex: Business Planning and

Financing or Franchising) and general introductions to ourFinancing or Franchising) and general introductions to our

services, as well as services offered by SCORE and the Houston Publicservices, as well as services offered by SCORE and the Houston Public

Library. Contact us if youd like a program produced in yourLibrary. Contact us if youd like a program produced in your

community!community! Call us at 832Call us at 832--393393--0954 for dates and times.0954 for dates and times.

www.houstontx.gov/onestop/index.htmlwww.houstontx.gov/onestop/index.html

TWITTER:TWITTER: twitter.com/ONESTOPBUSINESStwitter.com/ONESTOPBUSINESS

FACEBOOKFACEBOOK:: HOUSTON ONE STOP BUSINESS CENTERHOUSTON ONE STOP BUSINESS CENTER

CITIZENS NETCITIZENS NET(sign up page)(sign up page) cohapp.cityofhouston.gov/citizensnet/cohapp.cityofhouston.gov/citizensnet/


22/52

Contact Information & LocationContact Information & LocationOne Stop Business CenterOne Stop Business Center

WHERE:WHERE: CITY HALL ANNEX, 900 BAGBY STREETCITY HALL ANNEX, 900 BAGBY STREET

HOURS:HOURS: 7:30am7:30am -- 5pm, Monday5pm, Monday--FridayFriday

PHONE:PHONE: 832.393.0954832.393.0954

FAX:FAX: 832.393.0952832.393.0952

TDD/TTY:TDD/TTY: 33--11--11

EMAIL:EMAIL: [email protected]@cityofhouston.net

Contact us!!


23/52

Getting Started PacketGetting Started Packet

ContentsContents

Minimum Requirements

City, County Requirements

Local And State Regulations

Federal Regulations

Employer Responsibilities

Workplace Posters / Contract Labor


24/52

Minimum RequirementsMinimum Requirements(Common Filings)(Common Filings)

DBADBA-- HARRIS / FT. BEND COUNTY CLERK *HARRIS / FT. BEND COUNTY CLERK *

STATE SALES TAX PERMITSTATE SALES TAX PERMIT-- TEXAS STATE COMPTROLLER *TEXAS STATE COMPTROLLER *

EINEIN--FEDERAL TAXPAYER IDFEDERAL TAXPAYER ID-- INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE *INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE *

PROPERTY RENDITIONPROPERTY RENDITION-- HARRIS / FT. BEND COUNTYHARRIS / FT. BEND COUNTY

APPRAISAL DISTRICTAPPRAISAL DISTRICT(After Jan. 1 of each year)(After Jan. 1 of each year)

CORPORATIONS, LLCsCORPORATIONS, LLCs-- TEXAS SECRETARY OF STATE *TEXAS SECRETARY OF STATE *

EMPLOYEREMPLOYER--RELATED FILINGS SEPARATE (See GSP)RELATED FILINGS SEPARATE (See GSP)

**


25/52

DBAs / Assumed NamesDBAs / Assumed Names

TITLE 1TITLE 1 -- TEXAS UNIFORM COMMERCIAL CODETEXAS UNIFORM COMMERCIAL CODECH. 36. ASSUMED BUSINESS OR PROFESSIONAL NAMECH. 36. ASSUMED BUSINESS OR PROFESSIONAL NAME

Any person who regularly conducts business or renders professionalAny person who regularly conducts business or renders professional

services other than as a corporation, limited partnership, registeredservices other than as a corporation, limited partnership, registeredlimited liability partnership, or limited liability company in Texas underlimited liability partnership, or limited liability company in Texas under

an assumed name shall file in the office of the county clerk in eachan assumed name shall file in the office of the county clerk in each

county in which such person has or will maintain business orcounty in which such person has or will maintain business or

professional premises or, if no business or professional premises are orprofessional premises or, if no business or professional premises are or

will be maintained in any county, in each county where such personwill be maintained in any county, in each county where such person

conducts business or renders a professional service.conducts business or renders a professional service. (excerpt)(excerpt)

SOURCE: http://codes.lp.findlaw.com/txstatutes/BC/5/A/71SOURCE: http://codes.lp.findlaw.com/txstatutes/BC/5/A/71


26/52

Legal BusinessLegal Business

Structures in TexasStructures in Texas -- 11

www.sos.state.tx.us/corp/businessstructure.shtmlwww.sos.state.tx.us/corp/businessstructure.shtml

Sole proprietorship:

The most common and the simplest form of business is the soleproprietorship. In a sole proprietorship, a single individualengages in a business activity without necessity of formalorganization. Filing with SOS not necessary.

General partnership:

A general partnership is created when two or more personsassociate to carry on a business for profit. A partnershipgenerally operates in accordance with a partnership agreement,

but there is no requirement that the agreement be in writingand no state-filing requirement. Filing with SOS not necessary.


27/52

Legal BusinessLegal Business

Structures in TexasStructures in Texas -- 22

Corporation:

A corporation is a legal person with the characteristics of limitedliability, centralization of management, perpetual duration, andease of transferability of ownership interests. The owners of a

corporation are called shareholders. The persons who managethe business and affairs of a corporation are called directors.

Limited Liability Company:

The limited liability company (LLC) is not a partnership or acorporation but rather is a distinct type of entity that has the

powers of both a corporation and a partnership.

Also: Limited Partnership: Limited Liability Partnership, Nonprofit Corporation. You needNOT have an attorney file documents for you. It is not required.

www.sos.state.tx.us/corp/businessstructure.shtml


28/52

Government Regulatory StructureGovernment Regulatory Structure

((Where Do I Get Permits???)Where Do I Get Permits???)

PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATIONS

City ofOF HOUSTON City of GALVESTON City of KATY

HARRIS COUNTY DEPARTMENTS SPECIALTAXING DISTRICTS

STATEOFTEXASAGENCIES

FEDERAL GOVERNMENTAGENCIES


29/52

Typical CityTypical City--County RequirementsCounty Requirements

((ExamplesExamples-- not a comprehensive listing)not a comprehensive listing)

Certificate of Occupancy (COH)Certificate of Occupancy (COH)

Building Permit, Demolition (COH)Building Permit, Demolition (COH)

Food Dealers Permits (COH/HC)Food Dealers Permits (COH/HC)

Sign Permits (COH/HC)Sign Permits (COH/HC)

Fire Marshall Permits (COH/HC)Fire Marshall Permits (COH/HC)

NonNon--Smoking Ordinances (COH) (no permit required)Smoking Ordinances (COH) (no permit required)

Subdivision and Development Ordinances (COH)Subdivision and Development Ordinances (COH)

HPD Permits, Harris County SheriffHPD Permits, Harris County Sheriff

Commercial Permits (Resale/Roadside/Scrap) (COH)Commercial Permits (Resale/Roadside/Scrap) (COH)

Wastewater, Water ConnectionsWastewater, Water Connections


30/52

Commercial PermittingCommercial Permitting

(ARA)(ARA)

ARA (Administrative and Regulatory Affairs) engages incompliance investigations, permit processing and feecollection activities associated with over 50 variouscommercial permits.

Common Market (Flea)

Mini warehouse

Coin operated machines

Roadside vendors

Dance hallsLoudspeaker operation

Charitable solicitation

Second hand dealer

Gold and silver

Scrap metal processor

Alcoholic beverages

Antique dealersCarnival

Garage and yard sales

LOCATION: 611 Walker, 2ndFloor 713.837.9555


31/52

Building/Structure Permit BasicsBuilding/Structure Permit Basics(COH)(COH)

New construction of buildings or structures

Alterations, repairs or additions to existing buildings orstructures, exterior remodels, alterations or repairs

Changes in the use or occupancy of an existing building orstructure

Interior tenant lease build-outs, remodeling and repairs

Moving/relocating/demolishing existing buildings

Fences over 8' high or concrete or masonry fences

Driveways and sidewalks, parking lot paving and repairs

PWE: 713-535-7800


32/52

Occupancy Inspection BasicsOccupancy Inspection Basics(COH)(COH)

A Certificate of Occupancy (CO) is needed if a commercial

building or lease space is occupied, or if changes to an

existing occupancy type are made.

If no Certificate of Occupancy (CO) is posted the owner oragent is given a 10-day notice to apply and pay fees. If the

owner or agent fails to comply, citations may be issued

each day until the application is received by the City.

Residential dwellings and garages , sheds, and carports are

exempt from needing COs

Call PWE: 713-535-7730


33/52

State of Texas RequirementsState of Texas Requirements((ExamplesExamples-- not a comprehensive listing)not a comprehensive listing)

TCEQTCEQ:: Environmental permits and licenses, dry cleaners, printing shops, a/c servicing,Environmental permits and licenses, dry cleaners, printing shops, a/c servicing,underground storage tanks, gas stations, auto dealers, waste hauling.underground storage tanks, gas stations, auto dealers, waste hauling.

DPS:DPS:Auto glass, hazmat, vehicle inspection, concealed handgunsAuto glass, hazmat, vehicle inspection, concealed handguns

TxDOT:TxDOT: Oversize loads, aviation, trucking, vans, busesOversize loads, aviation, trucking, vans, buses

Consumer Credit Commission:Consumer Credit Commission: Registered creditors, pawn shopsRegistered creditors, pawn shops

Family and Protective Services:Family and Protective Services: Day care, adoption, group homesDay care, adoption, group homes

Licensing and Regulation:Licensing and Regulation: Employment services, cosmetology, talent agents,Employment services, cosmetology, talent agents,electricians, staff leasing, plumbing, a/c installers, combative sports, career counseling,electricians, staff leasing, plumbing, a/c installers, combative sports, career counseling,

refrigeration installers, court interpreters.refrigeration installers, court interpreters.TABC:TABC:Alcoholic beverages, breweries, lab alcoholAlcoholic beverages, breweries, lab alcohol

TDSHS:TDSHS: Counselors, therapists, nursing homes, paramedics, athletic trainersCounselors, therapists, nursing homes, paramedics, athletic trainers

Agriculture Dept.:Agriculture Dept.: Nursery and floral, weights and measures, aquacultureNursery and floral, weights and measures, aquaculture


34/52

Federal RequirementsFederal Requirements

((ExamplesExamples-- not a comprehensive listing)not a comprehensive listing)

Customs and Border Patrol:Customs and Border Patrol: Import licensing, port securityImport licensing, port security

International Trade Administration:International Trade Administration: Exporting activitiesExporting activities

EPA:EPA: Hazmat, environmental pollution sourcesHazmat, environmental pollution sources

Federal Trade Commission:Federal Trade Commission: Mail order, used car sales,Mail order, used car sales,

appliance labeling, care labeling, advertisingappliance labeling, care labeling, advertising

Food and Drug Administration:Food and Drug Administration: Food and drugFood and drug

manufacturing and labelingmanufacturing and labeling

OSHA:OSHA: Workplace safetyWorkplace safetyTreasury Department:Treasury Department: Check cashing, travel agenciesCheck cashing, travel agencies

USDA:USDA: Animal and plant inspection, food inspectionAnimal and plant inspection, food inspection

USPTO:USPTO: Patents and trademarksPatents and trademarks


35/52

Permits and LicensesPermits and LicensesName Changes / New ApplicationsName Changes / New Applications

Some existing permits and licenses can be reSome existing permits and licenses can be re--issued with aissued with a

new applicants business and owner name. Call the issuingnew applicants business and owner name. Call the issuing

agency to determine if you must reapply for a specific permitagency to determine if you must reapply for a specific permitunder a new name or if it can be transferred.under a new name or if it can be transferred.

EVERY LOCAL, STATE AND FEDERAL AGENCY HAS DIFFERENT RULES ANDEVERY LOCAL, STATE AND FEDERAL AGENCY HAS DIFFERENT RULES AND

REQUIREMENTS FOR REAPPLICATION. YOU MUST CONTACT THEM AFTER ANREQUIREMENTS FOR REAPPLICATION. YOU MUST CONTACT THEM AFTER AN

INVENTORY OF EXISTING PERMITS AND LICENSES. FEES AND WAITINGINVENTORY OF EXISTING PERMITS AND LICENSES. FEES AND WAITING

PERIOD INFORMATION IS ALSO AVAILABLE.PERIOD INFORMATION IS ALSO AVAILABLE.

DO NOT ASSUME YOU CAN REGISTER A SIMPLE NAME CHANGE IFDO NOT ASSUME YOU CAN REGISTER A SIMPLE NAME CHANGE IF

YOU BUY AN EXISTING BUSINESS.YOU BUY AN EXISTING BUSINESS.


36/52

Federal / State Minimum WageFederal / State Minimum Wage

Under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), the federal

minimum wage for nonexempt employees will increase to

$7.25 per hour effective July 24, 2009.

SOURCE: www.dol.gov/esa/minwage/america.htm#Texas

Employees whose jobs are governed by the FLSA are either "exempt" or"nonexempt." Nonexempt employees are entitled to overtime pay. Exemptemployees are not. Most employees covered by the FLSA are nonexempt.

The Texas State minimum wage law does not containcurrent dollar minimums. Instead the State adopts the Federal

minimum wage rate by reference.


37/52

FAQFAQ -- Are Permits, Licenses andAre Permits, Licenses and

Regulations the Same Thing?Regulations the Same Thing?

EXAMPLE

Mail Order businesses do notreceive an actual permit or

license but are regulated by the

US Federal Trade Commission

through their Mail Order Rule

www.ftc.gov

NO!!

Business licenses and permitscan vary by type of business,

range of activities, and

enforcing jurisdiction.

A business may not be issued a

license or a permit (for a fee)

but still be regulated by somelevel of government.


38/52

Texas Deceptive TradeTexas Deceptive Trade

Practices ActPractices Act -- DTPADTPA

The primary purpose of the DTPA is to protect consumers against

false, misleading, and deceptive business and insurance practices,

unconscionable actions, and breaches of warranty. It does so by

prohibiting certain acts and practices that tend to deceive and

mislead consumers. Most consumer transactions are covered by

the DTPA. Although the DTPA does not cover every deceptive or

unconscionable act or practice, it is quite broad.

SOURCES:

http://library.findlaw.com/2000/Mar/1/130722.html (and)

http://www.texasbar.com/


39/52

Is There a GeneralIs There a General

Business License in Houston??Business License in Houston??

There is NO general business license issued by the COH. DBAs,There is NO general business license issued by the COH. DBAs,

State Sales Tax Permits, or EINs are NOT business licenses. They areState Sales Tax Permits, or EINs are NOT business licenses. They are

businessbusiness--specific and issued individually based on business typespecific and issued individually based on business type

and range of activities. BUSINESSES DO NOT REQUIRE THE SAMEand range of activities. BUSINESSES DO NOT REQUIRE THE SAMEPERMITS AND LICENSES.PERMITS AND LICENSES.

DBAs (or assumed names) are not proof of an operational business. PeopleDBAs (or assumed names) are not proof of an operational business. People

can register more than one DBA and there is no requirement to transactcan register more than one DBA and there is no requirement to transact

business. Therefore, DBAs are seldom accepted as proof of such.business. Therefore, DBAs are seldom accepted as proof of such.


40/52

Do All Similar Businesses HaveDo All Similar Businesses Have

Similar Regulatory Requirements?Similar Regulatory Requirements?

No!No!No!

Similar business types can be located across the street from one another

yet be in different cities or counties- thus having different requirements.

EXAMPLE


41/52

License and Permit ComparisonLicense and Permit Comparison

FF 1 (COH)FF 1 (COH)

New structure, no alcohol, contract labor, noNew structure, no alcohol, contract labor, no

grease trap, signs, incorporated, wastewatergrease trap, signs, incorporated, wastewaterimpact fees, occupancy certificate, foodimpact fees, occupancy certificate, fooddealer, burglar alarm.dealer, burglar alarm.

FF 2 (HC)FF 2 (HC)

Existing structure, alcohol, employees, greaseExisting structure, alcohol, employees, grease

trap, seafood, signs, sole proprietor, MUDtrap, seafood, signs, sole proprietor, MUD(water/sewer), food dealer, burglar alarm.(water/sewer), food dealer, burglar alarm.


42/52


43/52

Deed RestrictionsDeed Restrictions-- II

The City of Houston is UNZONED. Houston enforces deedThe City of Houston is UNZONED. Houston enforces deed

restrictions for the protection of citizens and propertyrestrictions for the protection of citizens and property

owners in residential neighborhoods. All residents andowners in residential neighborhoods. All residents and

citizens benefit, and it promotes the health, safety, morals,citizens benefit, and it promotes the health, safety, morals,

and general welfare of the city.and general welfare of the city.

PLEASE CONTACT THE

DEED RESTRICTION HOTLINE AT 832.393.6333


44/52

Deed RestrictionsDeed Restrictions-- IIII

BEFORE OPERATING FROM A HOME:BEFORE OPERATING FROM A HOME:

1. Are you operating a business?

2. Are you generating customer traffic?

3. Are there current deed restrictions and will they allow or disallow

the operation of a business?

4. Is your specific type of business allowed or disallowed?

5. Are the deed restrictions void through non-enforcement or

expiration?


45/52

Obtaining Deed RestrictionsObtaining Deed Restrictions

Included with legal papers when real property wasIncluded with legal papers when real property was

purchased.purchased.

Part of a lease or rental agreement, by reference.Part of a lease or rental agreement, by reference.

Obtain from area homeowners association or civic club.Obtain from area homeowners association or civic club.

Obtain from the applicable County Clerk Office (mustObtain from the applicable County Clerk Office (must

have property legal description). In Harris Co.have property legal description). In Harris Co.

call 713call 713--755755--68996899 (Real Property Records(Real Property Records-- fee for copies).fee for copies).


46/52

Zoning Ordinances andZoning Ordinances and

NoZoning LetterNoZoning Letter

Houston is the largest city in the United States without a formal zoningHouston is the largest city in the United States without a formal zoning

ordinance. There ARE specific development regulations however.ordinance. There ARE specific development regulations however.

Contact the Planning and Development Department (at 713Contact the Planning and Development Department (at 713--837837--7701) for7701) for

information, or for a copy of the NO ZONING LETTER.information, or for a copy of the NO ZONING LETTER.

2010 City of Houston NO ZONING LETTER:2010 City of Houston NO ZONING LETTER:

http://www.houstontx.gov/planning/forms/2010NoZoningLetter.pdfhttp://www.houstontx.gov/planning/forms/2010NoZoningLetter.pdf

Harris County NO ZONING LETTER:Harris County NO ZONING LETTER:

http://www.hctx.net/cmpdocuments/103/economic%20development/zoneletterharriscounty.pdfhttp://www.hctx.net/cmpdocuments/103/economic%20development/zoneletterharriscounty.pdf


47/52

NoZoning LetterNoZoning Letter(Actual Text(Actual Text-- COH)COH)

The City of Houston does not have a zoning ordinance. This

is the city of Houstons no zoning letter applicable to anyproperty inside the City of Houston. This does not addressany separately filed restrictions that may be applicable to theproperty. You may use this letter to present to your lender.This letter will be updated on January 1, 2011.

All applicable development regulations andsubdivisions laws can be obtained through a review ofthe City Code of Ordinances, which is located on theCity of Houston Internet site accessed through

www.houstonplanning.com or www.houstontx.gov


48/52

FAQFAQ -- Are Food EstablishmentsAre Food Establishments

Legal from a Residence?Legal from a Residence?

There is NO blanket prohibition against foodThere is NO blanket prohibition against food

service businesses in residences insideservice businesses in residences inside

Houston. They are legal unless they violateHouston. They are legal unless they violate

deed restrictions, and/or cant meet all thedeed restrictions, and/or cant meet all the

requirements of the COH Food Ordinance.requirements of the COH Food Ordinance.

They must also comply with other applicableThey must also comply with other applicable

licensing requirements.licensing requirements.

COH Food Ordinance:

www.houstontx.gov/health/Food/newfoodordinance.html


49/52

Commonly Requested Business TypesCommonly Requested Business TypesOne Stop Business CenterOne Stop Business Center

RESTAURANTS

DAY CARE

INSURANCE

CLEANING/JANITORIAL/MAID

BEAUTY/BARBER

FREIGHT SERVICES

CONTRACTORS

VAN-CAR POOL

CONSULTING

AUTO REPAIR/DEALER

CLOTHING RETAIL

RECORD LABEL

FURNITURE SALES

MAIL ORDER


50/52

StatisticsStatisticsOne Stop Business CenterOne Stop Business Center

90%90% New BusinessesNew Businesses

50%50% HomeHome--based businessesbased businesses

75%75% Within Houston City LimitsWithin Houston City Limits

75%75% No Employees (sole owner)No Employees (sole owner)

40%40% Originate at the DBA Office (HCC)Originate at the DBA Office (HCC)

75%75% Sole ProprietorshipSole Proprietorship--General PartnershipGeneral Partnership

550550--700+700+ Clients / Month (GSPs delivered)Clients / Month (GSPs delivered)


51/52

Strategic PartnersStrategic Partners

US SBA / SCOREUS SBA / SCORE

UH Small Business Development CenterUH Small Business Development Center

Houston/Ft. Bend County Public LibrariesHouston/Ft. Bend County Public Libraries

TSU Economic Development CenterTSU Economic Development Center Houston Business Development, Inc.Houston Business Development, Inc.

Harris County Clerk / Texas State ComptrollerHarris County Clerk / Texas State Comptroller

Greater Houston Business Procurement ForumGreater Houston Business Procurement Forum

Mayors Office for People with DisabilitiesMayors Office for People with Disabilities

UH Veterans' Services OfficeUH Veterans' Services Office


52/52

For More InformationFor More Information

Call ONE STOP BUSINESS CENTER:Call ONE STOP BUSINESS CENTER:

832832--393393--0954 (311)0954 (311)

To download a copy of this presentation:To download a copy of this presentation:

www.houstontx.gov/onestopwww.houstontx.gov/onestop

(Updated 5(Updated 5--10)10)

one-stop biz ctr ppt may 2010

Documents