Do I Need a License or Certification to Start a Furniture Business?
- Nate Jones, CPCU, ARM, CLCS, AU
- Oct 30
- 2 min read
If you're planning to start a furniture business—whether it's custom woodworking, upholstery, retail, or online sales—understanding the legal requirements is essential. While you may not need a formal certification to build or sell furniture, you do need specific licenses and permits to operate legally and avoid fines or delays.
In this guide, we’ll break down the licenses, permits, and compliance requirements for furniture businesses and explain how Wexford Insurance helps protect your operations from day one.
Do You Need a License to Start a Furniture Business?
Yes, most furniture businesses require a combination of local, state, and federal licenses depending on your location and business model. According to Asherfield and FindLaw, here are the most common licenses and permits:
1. General Business License
Required by most cities or counties to legally operate any business. This license confirms your business is registered and compliant with local laws.
2. Sales Tax Permit
If you sell furniture directly to consumers, you’ll need a sales tax permit to collect and remit sales tax. This applies to both physical and online stores.
3. Resale Certificate
Allows you to buy inventory tax-free from wholesalers. You’ll need to keep records and provide copies to your suppliers.
4. Certificate of Occupancy (CO)
If you operate from a physical location, your city will require a CO to confirm the space meets safety and zoning standards.
5. Sign Permit
Needed to install exterior signage for your store. Approval depends on size, lighting, and placement.
6. Employer Identification Number (EIN)
Issued by the IRS, this number is required for payroll, tax filings, and opening a business bank account—even if you don’t have employees.
7. Conditional Use or Zoning Permit
If your workshop is in a residential area or not zoned for manufacturing, you may need a conditional-use permit from your city’s planning department. Learn more from
Do You Need a Certification?
In most cases, certification is not legally required to build or sell furniture. However, certifications can help build trust and credibility, especially for:
Upholstery and restoration professionals
Sustainable or eco-friendly furniture makers
Businesses selling children’s furniture (subject to CPSC regulations)
If you’re importing or selling children’s furniture, you may need third-party testing and a Children’s Product Certificate under the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA).
State-Specific Requirements
Some states, like California, have additional licensing requirements for furniture retailers, manufacturers, and upholsterers. For example:
Furniture Retailer License: $140 per location
Manufacturer License: $750 per location
Custom Upholsterer License: $420 per location
Visit the California Bureau of Household Goods and Services for more details.
Why Insurance Is Just as Important
Even with the right licenses, your business is still exposed to risks. That’s why Wexford Insurance offers tailored coverage for furniture businesses, including:
Final Thoughts
Starting a furniture business doesn’t require formal certification, but it does require proper licensing and compliance with local regulations. Whether you're selling online, restoring vintage pieces, or opening a retail showroom, make sure your paperwork is in order—and your business is protected.
Contact Wexford Insurance today.
