Cleaning Service Permit Requirements in Houston, TX

Complete permit and license guide for starting a cleaning service in Houston, Harris County, Texas.

Updated 2026-03-12 6 stops $50–$400 est. 1-3 weeks for all registrations
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Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. This guide was compiled from public and official sources (last updated ) and has not yet been independently source-verified — confirm each requirement before acting on it.

Federal — start here

2 stops

  1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

    Required if you have employees, operate as an LLC or corporation, or open a business bank account. Apply free online through the IRS.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online)

  2. OSHA Hazard Communication Standard Compliance

    If you employ workers who handle cleaning chemicals, you must comply with OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard (29 CFR 1910.1200). This requires maintaining Safety Data Sheets for all hazardous chemicals, proper labeling, and employee training on chemical hazards.

    Official government source

    Free (compliance requirement, no permit fee)Ongoing compliance

State of Texas

2 stops

  1. Texas Sales Tax Permit

    Residential and commercial cleaning services are taxable services in Texas. You must register with the Texas Comptroller to collect and remit sales tax before your first transaction. Registration is free and can be completed instantly online.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online)

  2. Texas Secretary of State Business Entity Registration (LLC or Corp)

    If you form an LLC or corporation to operate your cleaning business, you must register the entity with the Texas Secretary of State. Sole proprietors filing under their own name do not need to register with the state — only a county DBA is required.

    Official government source

    $300 (LLC filing fee)3-5 business days (online)

City of Houston / Harris County

2 stops

  1. Harris County Assumed Name (DBA) Certificate

    Sole proprietorships and partnerships operating under a trade name must file an Assumed Name Certificate with the Harris County Clerk. Required before conducting business under a business name in Harris County. Can be filed at any of 11 Harris County Clerk locations.

    Official government source

    $24 (notarized; plus $0.50 per additional owner)Same day (in person)

  2. City of Houston Business Registration / Cleaning-Janitorial Startup

    The City of Houston provides guidance for starting a cleaning or janitorial business. While Houston does not require a general business license for all businesses, specific zoning compliance and any applicable permits should be confirmed through the Houston Permitting Center. Contact the city for current requirements.

    Official government source

    Free to low cost1-2 weeks

Terminus

Open for business — est. $50–$400 · 1-3 weeks for all registrations

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Official Sources

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