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1. How much does a business license cost?

The business license fee is calculated based on gross income and the type of business. Our staff will be glad to assist you in determining your specific classification and resulting fee. You can estimate the cost of your fees by utilizing the online business license calculator.

Business Calculator page.

2. Will the Business License fee always be the same?

No. By state law, business licenses are based on a business’ gross revenue. A business’ first business license tax fee will be based on a reasonable estimate of gross income from the start of operation to December 31 of that calendar year.

After the first year estimate you will renew in April from the actual gross revenue generated in the prior calendar year (January-December).

3. Who establishes the amount of the Business License fee?

The Greenville City Council establishes the amount of the Business License fee.

4. How is gross revenue defined?

All revenue received from a business operation without any deductions for cost of goods sold, salaries, or cost of sales. It should conform to the gross income reported for state and federal income tax purposes.

5. What do I get from the Business License fees that I pay?

A Business License fee enables essential services such as fire protection, street, and sidewalk maintenance, parks and recreation programs, code enforcement activities, and building inspections.

Funding from this fee ensures quality service to the residents and business owners located in the City as well as to business owners coming into the city to conduct business. These revenues help ensure a high quality of life, which in turn helps create a desirable and prosperous business environment in the City of Greenville.