Before you begin a business, familiarize yourself with the pertinent laws - federal, state and county. Doing Business in Fairfax County is a very useful booklet available at the Mount Vernon Government Center. It provides a summary of permit requirements, taxes, relevant County offices and other time-saving tips.

Home occupations recording (255** is provided by the Department of Consumer Affairs. For further information call their office at 222-8435.

George Mason University offers many excellent one-day seminars and short courses for people planning or operating a business. Call 993-8300.

Mount Vernon Lee Chamber of Commerce provides the opportunity to meet others operating small businesses in the area. Regular schedule of lunch and dinner meetings. Call 660-6602.

Mount Vernon Net provides resources for starting and operating a business, as well as advertising and employment opportunities. See http://MtVernon.Net on the Internet.