Any business with a physical location within the City limits must secure a business registration prior to conducting any business activity. A business is any profession, trade, or occupation whether carried on for profit or not. This includes home based businesses (offices, contractors, consultants), churches, and temporary special events. A business registration is valid for one year and must be renewed annually. To register a business or if you have any questions, contact the Business Registrations Office at (575) 541-2287 or Business@las-cruces.org. For information packets that include an application and fee information, visit the Forms, Applications and Fees page.
Before a business registration is issued, all businesses operating in New Mexico must register with the New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department and obtain a State Tax Identification Number provided on your CRS Certificate.
New Mexico Taxation & Revenue Department local office:
- 2540 S. El Paseo, Bldg. #2
- Las Cruces, NM 88004-0607
- Telephone: (575) 524-6225
- Hours: Monday – Friday 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
Once you have received your CRS Certificate, bring this official paperwork to Business Registrations.
There are several types of business registrations:
Home Occupation Registration: Required for operating a business from your home. Home-based businesses are regulated by Article VI, Section 38-52 of the 2001 Las Cruces Zoning Code, as amended. The Zoning Code can be accessed through the Codes and Ordinances page.
Commercial Business Registration: Required for operating a business in a commercial location.
- For additional steps to opening a restaurant see the restaurant information packet.
- For the regulations required to serve liquor, beer, or wine see the liquor license information packet.
Special/Temporary Business Registration: Required for operating a temporary business, such as a firework stand, seasonal sales, or special events.
Door-to-Door Solicitation Registration: Required for operating a stand-alone door-to-door business. Door-to-door sales can also be done by businesses with a valid Commercial Business Registration.
For additional steps in operating a door-to-door solicitation business see the Door-To-Door Solicitation Packet.