In addition, the above statement applies to Mecklenburg County with certain exceptions. This License is required to legally operate anywhere within the City of Charlotte and/or Mecklenburg County. This requirement applies to all businesses, whether operated for profit, non-profit or home based.
The Business Tax Collections Office issues Privilege / Business Licenses. The License tax amount is based on estimated revenue or gross receipts at a rate of $0.60 per $1,000 (minimum tax $50; maximum $10,000). Businesses subject to the gross receipts tax may also be taxed at a flat rate and some businesses are only subject to a flat tax rate. Certain types of businesses must pay both the City and County license tax. Should you have further questions concerning how a certain type of business is taxed, a copy of our Partial Listing is available for your review. Further assistance may be requested utilizing our contact information located at the bottom of this page.
Licenses are issued on a fiscal-year basis and with the exception of Taxicab Drivers and Beer/Wine Licenses, will expire June 30th each year, regardless of the date issued. Licenses must be renewed on or before July 1st of each year.
In addition, all business addresses must be approved by the Mecklenburg County Zoning Department and some licenses must be approved by other departments, such as Environmental Health, Building Standards, Police or Fire. We've included our New Business Contact list within this site to assist new business owners with other approvals or licenses that may be required.
A City license may be required in addition to any County or State licenses already held. A business owner, partner, corporate officer or any other designated assignee may apply for a license in person at 700 N. Tryon Street, Charlotte between the hours of 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. An Application may be obtained through this site, by phone at 704-336-6315, or by mail at the address below.
Business Tax Collections
P.O. Box 31577
Charlotte, NC 28231-1577
Any changes in the business name or address must be reported to the Business Tax Collections Office within ten (10) days of the change so that a new license with the most current information may be issued for a five dollar ($5) fee. Licenses are non-transferable.
PLEASE NOTE - Closing, Transferring or Selling Business: The Business Tax Collections Office
must be notified forty-eight (48) hours in advance of a change in address, or ownership, or if business operations cease.
Should you have any questions or require additional information, please contact the Business Tax Collections Office by phone at 704-336-6315 or via e-mail at taxbusiness@MecklenburgCountyNC.gov
