Business License Applications 

A company's initial business license is valid from the time it begins operations through the following April 30. Every year thereafter, the license requires annual renewal by April 30 of that year. The exceptions are for a Group Event Business Licenses or a  Temporary Business License

Renewals

As a courtesy, annual business license renewal forms are sent to the business’ mailing address on file. These renewal forms are sent at the beginning of the business license renewal season (February-March). We also post reminders on our social media sites. The renewal deadline is April 30. You may also renew your busines license at the payment portal here: https://beaufort.munisselfservice.com/citizens/default.aspx#.

If a renewal form has not been received, has been misplaced, or assistance is needed calculating the renewal fee please call or email the Business Licensing Office for assistance at 843-525-7025 or email the business license office.

First step -- zoning approval

If your business is a brick-and-mortar location and you are a resident applicant, you must get zoning approval by submitting a Zoning (Safety) Application

If you are a home-based business, you will need to submit a Home Occupation Application

If you are a short-term rental business, you will need to submit a Short Term Rental Application.

Resident businesses

All resident applicants will be required to submit the following documents and complete applicable zoning requirements:

Non-resident businesses

All non-resident applicants will be required to submit the following documents:

Closing a business

Please fill out this form if you intend to close or move your business.

Other requirements for specialized industries

Discounts

The City values its businesses and offers the following discounts:

  • If you are a resident or non-resident business and your business license is renewed by March 15 (normal due date to renew is April 30) a 1.5% early bird discount is applied to your license fee.
  • If you are resident business and have been in operation for five years or more, and remit your renewal fee by March 15, you are entitled to an additional 1.5% longevity discount.
  • Businesses have a potential to receive a maximum 3% discount.

Delinquent fees

Business license renewals are due on or before April 30 of each year. Failure to pay your renewal fee by that date will result in delinquent penalty fees. A 5% penalty fee will be added to all business licenses on the 1st of every month until the business license is paid.