Business Licenses
If you’re planning to start a business in Dearborn, the City Clerk’s office is responsible for the registration and licensing of many trades and businesses. A business license is required for many types of Dearborn businesses.
ALERT: Business Licensing Available Online Only
As of Oct. 29, 2025
Due to a system upgrade, all new business and contractor licensing, and renewals, must be submitted via email to DBNInspections@Dearborn.gov. During this temporary outage, City of Dearborn staff will respond to requests as quickly as possible. Thank you for your patience.
Business Licenses
Business License Requirements
The following enterprises are required to register and file for a business license with the City of Dearborn for a fee:
Apartments/Apartment Managers & Lodging (Hotel, motel, bread & breakfast, rooming house, retirement home/community, or nursing home)
Automotive Sales & Re-Sales, Parts, Junk Yards & Services (Oil change, Valet)
Food Establishments, Restaurants & Food Trucks
Athletic Clubs (Gyms, yoga studios, karate schools, massage, fitness centers) & Lounges (Smoking, hookah)
Vending Machines (Gum, candy, food/soda or toys) & Solicitors (Door-to-Door sales)
An iChat background check is required to submit an application. The Dearborn Police Department must approve all background checks before issuing a business license.
Please contact the City Clerk's Office at 313-943-2010 for information or questions about obtaining a business license.
Skilled Trades Licenses
The City Clerk’s Office is responsible for registering and licensing many skilled trades contractors, including boiler operators (High & Low Pressure).
The City of Dearborn also offers licenses for skilled trades contractors in the following areas:
Stationary Engineers (Chief, Facilities, 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Classes)
Refrigeration Operators (1st & 2nd Class and Turbine & Reciprocal Engine)
After paying for, scheduling, and passing all tests as required by the Department of Economic Development, those who are approved must purchase a license through the City Clerk’s Office. The licensing fee is charged separately from the testing fee.
Licensing Fees for Skilled Trades
Low-Pressure Boiler Operator: $40
High-Pressure Boiler Operator: $50
1st Class Stationary Engineer: $95
2nd Class Stationary Engineer: $85
3rd Class Stationary Engineer: $75
Chief Powerhouse Stationary Engineer: $100
Stationary Engineer/Facilities Engineer: $100
1st Class Refrigeration Operator: $60
2nd Class Refrigeration Operator: $50
Turbine & Reciprocating Engineer: $50
Business Licenses
Access applications and packets for Street Vendors and Food Trucks through the City Clerk's office.