GCConstruction, Here are three resources for you as you start up your construction company: 1) 10 Steps to Starting Up will help you navigate through key legal decisions 2) The License & Permits Tool - search by your city/state and select 'Construction Contractor' for federal, state or local business licenses and permits 3) The Construction Industry Guide for specific information on workplace health and safety, taxes, hazardous materials, etc You may want to check out local associations and Chambers of Commerce for places you could find valuable contacts.

You're going to have your start-up work cut out for you. I honestly would recommend you seek a business attorney who handles the creation of businesses and helps obtain all the proper permits and licences you'll need. You would hate to miss step something and be charged fines or lose your liability or insurance coverage! They can also let you know what permits you'll need for specific projects. You're going to need an attorney anyways in this line of work, better get that taken care of prior to any actual work.

Join local real estate investment clubs. Those guys are always looking at getting work done on their distressed properties. Google 'REIA'  that's the national site, you can use them to find the local clubs.   I used to attend the meetings and the people are very friendly. 

I would recommend you find and become friends with a local developer. Do some jobs for him/her at a really good price - and deliver what you promise. Most of the time - you can work under his/her license. Also check out your secretary of states website for licensing and permits.