What do I need to open a paintball business?
John Johnson
Updated on February 26, 2026
Start a paintball field by following these 10 steps:
- STEP 1: Plan your business.
- STEP 2: Form a legal entity.
- STEP 3: Register for taxes.
- STEP 4: Open a business bank account & credit card.
- STEP 5: Set up business accounting.
- STEP 6: Obtain necessary permits and licenses.
- STEP 7: Get business insurance.
How much does it cost to make paintballs?
Paintball makers don’t make paintballs so they can feel good about themselves, they make paintballs so they can make a profit. Simple economics. So in the end, if you pay $60 for a case of anything, the actual price is about $40.
Can you get paid to play paintball?
Competent professional paintball players earn through salary, prize money, and of course sponsorship. Most importantly, as you gain experience you can earn decent money by getting involved in activities beyond battlefields.
Is paintball still popular 2020?
The overall popularity in paintball has declined since 2000, but it is certainly not dead or dying. Paintball manufactures are still innovating and coming out with new gear and tournaments are still being held world wide.
What are the steps to starting a paintball field?
Once you’re ready to start your paintball field, follow these steps to ensure that your business is legally compliant and avoid wasting time and money as your business grows: Plan your business. Form a legal entity. Register for taxes. Open a business bank account. Set up business accounting. Obtain necessary permits and licenses.
How much does it cost to start a paintball business?
There is a wide range of startup costs depending on how you design your paintball business, but it can be done cheaply. Building costs can be your highest or lowest cost. At a minimum, you need a medium-sized field. This would require leasing land and having a small structure or trailer where you could operate out of and store gear.
Do you need a license to play paintball?
Certain state permits and licenses may be needed to operate a paintball arena business. Learn more about licensing requirements in your state by visiting SBA’s reference to state licenses and permits. In addition, certain local licensing or regulatory requirements may apply.
What’s the difference between a business and a paintball field?
The big thing to keep in mind is that a paintball field is a business that happens to focus on paintball, not a paintball field that has a business on the side. If you don’t like business don’t even start. A paintball field is just like any other business and it requires all of the same elements.