LIST: Requirements for New Business Permits in Metro Manila Cities
Planning to open a new business in Metro Manila? We’ve compiled a list of requirements that the different Local Government Units (LGUs) will ask from you.
The year 2022 saw 7.4% of total businesses registered with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). But given the boom in e-commerce in recent years, 2023 is projected to have a high number of new business registrations.
Starting a new business, however, can be easier said than done—especially when you take into consideration the number of permits and documents you will need. One of these permits is the business permit, which you’ll need to get from the local government unit (LGU) where you want to set up your business.
To help you out with the process of applying for a business permit, we put together the requirements that each Metro Manila city will ask from you.
General Requirements for New Business Permits
Cities in Metro Manila generally have the same requirements for new business permits, which are as follows:
- Application Form (can be downloaded online or picked up from the city hall, depending on the LGU)
- Certificate of Registration
- For Sole Proprietorships: DTI Registration
- For Partnerships or Corporations: Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Registration
- For Cooperatives: Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) Registration
- Barangay Business Clearance
- Community Tax Certificate (CTC or Cedula)
- Sketch or pictures of the business location (store, factory, or office)
- Public Liability Insurance (usually for restaurants, malls, and cinemas)
- Locational or Zoning Clearance
- Certificate of Occupancy
- Building Permit and Electrical Inspection Certificate
- Sanitation Permit
- Fire Safety Inspection Permit
The required permits listed above have their respective requirements that should be submitted to the LGU. Make sure to contact the LGU concerned for the complete requirements for each permit.
Additional Requirements for New Business Permits
It should be noted that not all Metro Manila cities require the exact set of aforementioned requirements. Some may require just some of the requirements, while others may require more than those listed.
Moreover, it should be noted that some LGUs already allow for applications to be submitted online. In fact, many LGUs have decided to implement online applications as a response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Given that the Metro Manila cities have varying requirements and procedures, it is important to always check the website and social media pages of the LGU you want to apply to. You can also opt to drop by the city hall as well to make your inquiries and clarifications.
Listed below are the official websites and other pertinent links of the Metro Manila LGUs that contain more information on new business permit applications.
Caloocan
Las Piñas
Makati
Malabon
Mandaluyong
Manila
Marikina
Muntinlupa
Navotas
Parañaque
Pasay
Pasig
Pateros
Quezon City
San Juan
Taguig
Valenzuela
Importance of Registering Your New Business
While it is easy to start a new business, it is important to register it for the main reason of protecting you from legal problems with the government. Tax evasion, after all, can result in heavy fines and in the worst cases, imprisonment, and a long legal battle.
As for brand equity, a registered business secures your reputation as a credible and legitimate establishment. This, in turn, builds trust among your suppliers, customers, and employees. What’s more, you can freely market your brand and business everywhere and even transact with large companies and suppliers.
And in the long run, a registered business can be scaled and expanded. Simply put, there are more opportunities for businesses when it is formally registered.
Latest Cover
Let TBM’s fact-based journalism help you gain curated knowledge and stories straight from the professionals.
