Trade License
The Trade License Department, under the Directorate of Municipal Administration (DMA), regulates commercial activities within Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT).
Issuance of Trade Licenses
Within the Islamabad Municipal limits, to carry on any of the trades mentioned in Schedule I, a trade license is mandatory.
Renewal of Licenses
Processing annual renewals and ensuring continued compliance with licensing regulations.
Verification & Inspection
Conducting on-site inspections to verify business operations and ensure adherence to approved license terms.
Compliance & Enforcement
Monitoring unauthorized businesses, issuing challans, imposing penalties, and sealing premises operating without valid licenses.
Notes
Your application will only be considered once payment has been made in full and acknowledged.
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FAQs
01 What types of businesses need a Trade License?
Retail & Wholesale: Grocery stores / Kiryana shops, General stores, Supermarkets and departmental stores, Bookshops and stationery stores, Clothing, shoe, and garment stores, Electronics and mobile shops, Furniture & hardware outlets.
Food & Beverage: Restaurants & Cafés, Bakeries & confectioneries, Fast food shops, Fruit, vegetable, meat & fish shops, Tea stalls, juice corners, and roadside dhabas, Ice cream parlors.
Personal Services: Barber shops & salons, Beauty parlors, Dry cleaners & laundry services, Tailors.
Workshops & Technical Services: Car repair workshops, Tyre shops, oil change & tuning centers, Carpenter shops, Plumbing and electrical services.
Professional & Office-Based Services Travel agencies, Real estate offices, Printing presses, Courier companies, Photo studios, Tuition centers, IT service centers (hardware/software).
Industrial & Production (Small Scale): Cottage industries (small-scale home-based production), Ice factories, Mineral water bottling units
Other Commercial Use: Warehouses used for commercial goods, Petrol pumps, Medical stores/pharmacies, Hospitals, Clinics (non-hospital), Event management offices
Important Note:
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Home-based businesses in residential zones may require permission or a license if there’s commercial activity or foot traffic.
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Licenses must be renewed annually.
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Businesses without a license are subject to fines, sealing, or cancellation of operation by DMA enforcement teams.
02 What documents do I need to apply?
- CNIC Copy: Valid CNIC of the business owner/applicant.
- Ownership or Tenancy Proof: Registered rent agreement (if rented) or property ownership documents.
Note: Your business must fall under zoned areas permitted for commercial activity.
03 How soon can I get my Trade License?
If your documentation is complete, DMA issues or renews trade licenses within 3-5 days.
04 Can I apply for Trade License online?
Trade License online application is coming soon.