I am looking for information on obtaining a business license in Greensboro. Where do I start?

Those that are planning to conduct business in Greensboro will need to apply for and be issued a business license. In Greensboro, a business license is also referred to as a business privilege license or a privilege license. You may download a business license application from the City of Greensboro website, apply online, or request that a business license application be mailed to you by writing to PO Box 26118, Greensboro, NC 27402-6118. 

How long will my Greensboro business license be valid and what are the costs I will incur?

Your business license is valid from July 1 through June 30 of the following year. You will be expected to renew your license prior to July 1 to avoid penalties. If you are issued a beer and wine license, it is valid from May 1 through April 30 of the following year. Fees are based on criteria specific to your business and will be calculated based on that criteria or based on flat rates depending on your business classifications. Your business license fees are due prior to receiving your business license and will accrue a percentage fee for each month that it is not paid. You may want to contact the Collections Division at (336) 373-2501 to discuss your fees.

What information will I need to complete my Greensboro business license?

The following list of information will be needed to complete your business license application. There may be additional information that you will need to supply to complete your application. 

1. Type of business ownership (partnership, individual ownership, corporation, LLC)
2. Names of additional owners, president and secretary for corporations, and home address of all owners
3. Business name, address (both mailing and street address), all phone numbers, email and website addresses
4. Name of rental agency or owner of building if rented
5. Business start date
6. Number of employees
7. Description of your business activities
8. Whether you are involved in retail, manufacturing, food service, building contractor, alcohol sales, services, and/or vehicle repair services

When you have completed your business license application, you will need to sign it to verify that you have provided true and accurate information and that you are in compliance with all regulations and restrictions, whether local, state, or federal, associated with operating a business in Greensboro. If you have any questions or need any assistance in completing your application for a business license, contact the Collection Division at (336) 373-2501. Return your application via fax (336) 373-4393 or by mail to PO Box 26118, Greensboro NC, 27402-6118.

I still have questions. Who should I contact?

You may contact the Collections Division either by phone (336) 373-2501 or in person by visiting them at the Melvin Municipal Office Building at 300 West Washington Street in room P112. The City of Greensboro website has useful information for those starting the process of obtaining a business license. 

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Disclaimer: This site is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial or tax advise. The information on this site should not be relied upon as an official source of information and should be independently verified.