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The District of Columbia regulates business activities and land use in order to protect the economic interests, safety, and property of businesses, residents, and visitors. District of Columbia agencies are empowered by the DC Code to create regulations for District business, and adhere to federal regulations. Below are agencies that create these regulations.

The Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs (DCRA) is the District of Columbia's regulatory agency. DCRA ensures the health, safety, and economic welfare of District residents through licensing, inspection, compliance, and enforcement programs. DCRA consists of three operating administrations: Building & Land Regulation Administration (BLRA), Business & Professional Licensing Administration (BPLA), and the Housing Regulation Administration (HRA).


Permit Service Center
Contact the Permit Service Center for more information on:

  • New construction and foundations

  • Additions, alterations, or repair of existing buildings

  • Razes (demolition)

  • Construction of a retaining wall, fence, shed, garage or vault

  • Erection of a sign and awning

  • Layout of interior space for tenants in new or existing commercial buildings

Business License Center
Contact the Business License Center for more information on:

  • Business and Professional Licensing

  • Education License

  • License Information Requests

  • Basic Business License

  • Vending and Special Events

Development Ambassador Program
The Development Ambassador Program teams guide large and small developers through the permit process. This helps projects to begin on schedule, meet development timeframes, and conclude successfully. For more information contact the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs at (202) 442-4400.

Department of Consumer & Regulatory Affairs
941 North Capitol Street, NE
Washington, DC 20002
(202) 442-4400

Permit Service Center
Department of Consumer & Regulatory Affairs
941 North Capitol Street, NE
Room 2300 (2nd Floor)
Washington, DC 20002
(202) 442-4589

Business License Center
Department of Consumer & Regulatory Affairs
941 North Capitol Street, NE
1st Floor
Washington, DC 20002
(202) 442-4311

 
 
 
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DC Economic Partnership
1495 F Street, NW, Washington, DC 20004
Phone: 202.661.8670 Fax: 202.661.8671