If an entrepreneur finds an old house in a rural area for a grocery store, what must they obtain first?

When an entrepreneur identifies a property for a grocery store, obtaining a zoning variance is crucial since zoning laws dictate how land can be used in specific areas. Given that the entrepreneur has found an old house intended for a grocery store, it’s essential to confirm whether the property is zoned for commercial use.

If the existing zoning classification does not allow for a grocery store, the entrepreneur must seek a variance, which permits a land use that is typically not allowed under current zoning regulations. This step is foundational because, without the proper zoning approval, the business cannot legally operate at that location.

In the context of the other options, building permits, a survey of potential customers, and a business license are also important, but they follow the establishment of legal usage for the property. A business cannot secure a license or permits if the site is not zoned appropriately for the intended business operations.