Mini Hardware Store Permits & Registration Guide (Philippines)
This guide summarizes the step-by-step requirements and estimated 2025 startup fees for registering a mini hardware store as a sole proprietorship in the Philippines.
What you'll learn in this mini hardware store guide
This mini hardware store permits and registration guide walks you through DTI name registration, barangay clearance, fire safety inspection, Mayor's permit, BIR registration, and employer registrations (SSS, PhilHealth, Pag-IBIG), plus optional MSME registration.
For deeper dives on each step, you can also read our DTI Business Name Registration Guide, BIR Business Registration Guide, and Basic Bookkeeping & Accounting Guide.
Para ma-check kung kaya ng budget ang ₱8,000–₱18,000 na tinatayang startup government fees, puwede mong gamitin ang Budget Calculator para pagsamahin ang permits, printing, at initial insurance or rent sa isang monthly at one-time cost view, ang Product Costing Calculator para mag-set ng tamang markup sa mga pangunahing hardware items at bundles, at ang Stock Management System para bantayan ang inventory ng pako, pintura, electrical at plumbing supplies habang lumalaki ang tindahan.
Step-by-step requirements
1. Register business name with DTI
For a sole proprietorship mini hardware store, use the DTI Business Name Registration System (BNRS) portal (bnrs.dti.gov.ph).
- Search and reserve your business name (national scope is usually recommended for hardware stores).
- Pay online using e-wallets or bank channels.
- Receive your DTI certificate instantly via email.
- Requirements: valid government ID and active email; certificate is typically valid for 5 years.
2. Secure Barangay Clearance
Visit your barangay hall with your DTI certificate, lease contract or proof of address, and valid ID.
- Fill out the barangay business clearance application form.
- Pay the barangay business fee (amount varies by barangay).
- Processing is commonly same-day for simple sole proprietorships.
3. Obtain Fire Safety Inspection Certificate
Apply at the local Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) office with building plans, proof of occupancy, and basic fire equipment details.
- BFP will inspect your hardware store for common hazards (flammable liquids, paints, solvents, LPG, etc.).
- Make any recommended fixes (e.g., fire extinguishers, proper storage, clear exits).
- Receive your Fire Safety Inspection Certificate once you pass.
4. Apply for Mayor's / Business Permit (LGU BPLO)
Go to your city or municipal Business Permits and Licensing Office (BPLO) or online BOSS portal (Business One Stop Shop).
- Submit the unified application form, DTI certificate, barangay clearance, lease contract, Fire Safety Certificate, community tax certificate (cedula), and BIR documents (if already available).
- Fees are usually based on declared capital or projected gross sales (around 0.3%–0.7% in many LGUs).
- Processing time is often 1–3 working days for straightforward applications.
5. Register with BIR
Use the Online Registration and Update System (ORUS) portal (orus.bir.gov.ph) to register your hardware store as a sole proprietorship.
- File BIR Form 1901 with your DTI certificate, Mayor's Permit, and barangay clearance as part of the requirements.
- For gross sales of up to ₱3M, you may elect the 8% flat tax in lieu of percentage tax and graduated income tax (review if this is suitable for your margins).
- Register your books of accounts and official receipts/invoices, and pay the relevant annual registration and DST fees.
- Expect to receive Form 2303, ATP, and approved books in about 1–3 days in many RDOs.
6. Register with SSS, PhilHealth, and Pag-IBIG (if hiring)
If you plan to hire staff, you must register as an employer with SSS, PhilHealth, and Pag-IBIG using their online portals or through assistance at your LGU's BOSS.
- Even self-employed owners are encouraged to register for social protection coverage.
- Some LGUs bundle employer registrations as part of the business permit process.
7. Optional MSME registration
You may optionally register as an MSME at your local DTI Negosyo Center to access loans, training, and programs like the BMBE tax holiday if your total assets (excluding land) are ≤ ₱3M.
Estimated 2025 fees (sole prop, ₱500K capital, Metro Manila)
| Item | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| DTI (National) | ₱230–₱530 |
| Barangay Clearance | ₱300–₱1,500 |
| Fire Safety Certificate | ₱300–₱1,000 |
| Mayor's Permit + Fees | ₱2,000–₱8,000 |
| BIR Registration + DST | ₱500–₱530 |
| Books / Receipts Printing | ₱1,000–₱5,000 |
| SSS / PhilHealth / Pag-IBIG Initial | ₱1,500–₱3,000 |
| Estimated Total Startup Government Fees | ₱8,000–₱18,000 |
Fees vary by LGU, declared capital, and inspection findings. Hardware stores often face stricter fire safety checks because of flammables and heavy materials.
Remember to renew your Mayor's Permit annually by around January 20 and update BIR/SSS/PhilHealth/Pag-IBIG records when you expand or hire more staff.