start a small business

2. set up utilities

Contact Utility Billing to set up an account and notify them of the date you want to start services. 

Office:124. E Coal Creek Drive
Phone: 720-304-6797

3. Register and Maintain Your Business with the Colorado Secretary of State

Register your business with the Colorado Secretary of State’s Office by filing online.

• Most businesses will need to register as a Limited Liability Company (LLC), Corporation, Sole Proprietorship, or Trade Name (DBA).

• Registration is required before opening a business bank account or applying for many business licenses.

Stay up to date:

• Subscribe to email notifications from the Colorado Secretary of State to receive important reminders about your business.

• Maintain your business record to avoid delinquency and higher filing fees. This typically includes filing an Annual Periodic Report (if applicable).

• Learn more about periodic reports on the Secretary of State’s FAQ.

4. apply for a business license

Section 6-1-20 of the Superior Municipal Code requires a Business License for all businesses collecting Town sales taxes.

Do I need a Town of Superior Business License?
Yes. All businesses collecting Town sales taxes are required to obtain a Town of Superior Business License, unless specifically exempt under Senate Bill 22-032 (see below).

Application Process:

• A Business License Application Form must be submitted annually to the Town Clerk by January 1.

• All Business License Applications must be mailed in with a check or money order.

• Annual fee: $75/year (effective for 2025).

• Download the Business License Application Form (PDF, 76KB).

Exempt Businesses:
Businesses are not required to apply for a Town of Superior Business License if they are:

• A nonprofit corporation or business (excluding federal, state, and municipal corporations)

• A business without a physical presence in the Town

• A business with only an incidental physical presence in the Town

If your business is exempt, no license is required. For all other businesses, licensing and regular tax filings remain mandatory.

Verify if You Need Other Permits:

• Sign Permits: Contact the Planning & Building Department for questions about sign permits.
  Please note: Downtown Superior has sign requirements that differ from the Town-wide requirements.

• Liquor License: If your business will serve or sell alcohol, contact the Town Clerk regarding the Liquor License application process.

For questions about whether your business qualifies for an exemption, assistance with the application process, or to verify any additional permitting needs, contact the Town of Superior. 

5. review county and state requirements

In addition to Town requirements, businesses may need to meet Boulder County and State of Colorado licensing and registration requirements:

• Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA)

• State of Colorado Business Checklist

• Colorado Business Resource Book

• Boulder County Business Licenses

6. explore business resources

The Boulder Small Business Development Center (SBDC) and other local organizations provide valuable resources to help you start and grow your business — including free business consulting and training.

7. understand use tax obligations

Many businesses have a Use Tax obligation on equipment, supplies, or materials purchased without paying Superior’s local sales tax.  

Sales Tax: 8.96%

8. obtain proper insurance

Proper insurance coverage protects your business, employees, and customers.

Refer to the Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA) Small Business Guide to Insurance for helpful information on types of coverage and how to evaluate your insurance needs.

Common types of business insurance to consider:

• Liability insurance

• Workers’ compensation insurance (required if you have employees)

• Fire and premises insurance

• Automobile insurance (if your business uses vehicles)

• Glass insurance (for storefronts or display windows)

• Business interruption insurance

• Crime insurance

• Officer and director liability insurance

• Products liability insurance (if you manufacture or sell products)

Consult an insurance professional to determine the best coverage for your specific business. Refer to our Legal page. 

9. connect with the superior chamber

Connecting with the Superior Chamber of Commerce is a great way to tap into the local business community and access valuable resources. The Chamber represents more than 225 businesses across the region, with the majority located in Superior. It offers programs, connections, and support to help your business succeed.

We encourage you to reach out to the Chamber’s Executive Director, Renee Alaniz to learn more about:

• Resources available to businesses

• Networking opportunities and business community events

• Planning a strong launch for your business

• Scheduling a ribbon cutting ceremony (the Chamber would love to host your ribbon cutting and help promote your grand opening!)

Getting connected to the Chamber before your opening will help ensure your business has a successful and well-supported launch — and will allow you to start building strong relationships in the community.

Contact:
Superior Chamber of Commerce
Email: [email protected]