In order to maintain the safety and well-being of our residents, many businesses and activities require either a permit or license. (Items marked with * may also require an Iowa criminal history background check.) 

The City of Cedar Rapids does not issue general business licenses.

Alcohol and Tobacco
Alcoholic beverages*     |     Cigarettes, tobacco, nicotine and vapor

Transportation
Ambulances      |     Pedicabs     |     Taxicabs

For more information on taxicab and pedicab regulations, please view the Taxicab Ordinance or Pedicab Ordinance.

Vendors
Mobile food     |     Solicitors*      |     Transient merchants

Other licenses
After hours businesses     |     Auctioneers     |     Business close-out sales     |     Pawnbrokers

ADA Accommodations

The City Clerk’s Office staff shall, upon request, assist individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing by researching options such as providing sign language interpreters or the availability of assisted listening devices.

The City Clerk’s Office staff shall, upon request, assist individuals who are visually impaired/blind by providing text in alternate formats (e.g. large print, documents in Braille, audio cassette).