Charleston, SC Business License Guide

Last updated: August 2025

This is a practical, no-nonsense guide to getting legally licensed to do business in the City of Charleston, SC and the surrounding area. It covers what to get first, real timelines, common pitfalls, and where to get help—with direct links to official sources so you don’t have to hunt around.

Quick help (start here)

• If you operate inside Charleston city limits, you need a City of Charleston business license. Apply and renew through the City or the statewide portal. See the City’s official Business License page: City of Charleston — Business License (official site). For multi-jurisdiction renewals, use the state’s standardized portal: MASC Business License Renewal Portal (official) (explains Act 176 and lets you renew across SC cities).
• Selling retail goods, meals, or taxable services? Register with the South Carolina Department of Revenue (SCDOR) for a Retail License (sales tax license). Apply online with MyDORWAY: SCDOR — MyDORWAY online tax portal. As of August 2025, SCDOR states there is no fee ($0) to obtain a Retail License; confirm on the official page: SCDOR — Retail License (Sales Tax) overview.
• Have a physical location? Get zoning approval and, when required, a Certificate of Occupancy before the City issues your business license. Start with the City’s Permit Center: City of Charleston — Permit Center (official site).
• Food business (restaurant, food truck, caterer, home-based non-potentially hazardous foods)? You likely need DHEC review/permits. Read: SC DHEC — Retail Food Safety (official).
• Serving beer/wine/liquor? You need state ABL permits from SCDOR in addition to the City license. Start here: SCDOR — Alcohol Beverage Licensing (official).
• Contractors (general, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, specialty)? Check state licensing requirements through LLR before pulling City permits or applying for your City license. See: SC LLR — Professional & Occupational Boards (official).
• Not sure if you’re inside city limits (versus unincorporated Charleston County or another municipality)? Use the City website to verify jurisdiction or call the City’s Permit Center via the main site contact directory: City of Charleston — Contact & Directory. If your location is outside any city, you’ll work with Charleston County’s business licensing: Charleston County — Revenue Collections & Business License.
• Need an EIN? Get one directly from the IRS for $0: IRS — Apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) online. IRS Business & Specialty Tax Line: 800-829-4933 (official IRS line).
• Deadline reminder: Most South Carolina local business licenses renew by April 30 under the state’s Business License Standardization Act. Verify your exact due date with the City: MASC — Statewide Business License Renewal Portal.

---

What license(s) do you need first? (Fast triage)

The most important step: figure out your jurisdiction and business activities, then apply in the right order. Most businesses in Greater Charleston follow this sequence:

1. City or County business license (based on where you’re located and where you operate).
2. State tax registrations (Retail License for sales tax if selling taxable goods/services; withholding; unemployment).
3. Zoning, occupancy, and any professional/health permits tied to your business type.
4. Specialty state permits (alcohol, childcare, healthcare, etc.) if applicable.

Here’s a quick visual to keep it straight.

Table 1 — Charleston area licensing triage

Reality check: Charleston’s city boundary is irregular. Parts of West Ashley, James Island, and Johns Island are in city limits; others are not. Verify before you apply.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Use the City’s contact directory to confirm jurisdiction: City of Charleston — Contact & Directory.
• If you discover you’re outside city limits, go to the County’s Revenue Collections page: Charleston County — Revenue Collections.
• For specific tax questions (what’s taxable), contact SCDOR via the site: SCDOR — Contact & Support.

---

The City of Charleston business license — who needs it, how to apply, timeline, and fees

Most businesses located within City of Charleston limits—and most businesses physically operating in the city even if based elsewhere—must secure a City business license. South Carolina’s Business License Standardization Act requires a uniform renewal date and class system across cities, but rates still vary by city.

Key law:

• South Carolina Business License Standardization Act (Act 176 of 2020) sets a uniform annual license period and due date across municipalities and requires the use of a standard business classification system by NAICS. See details and the statewide renewal portal: MASC — Business License Renewal Portal (official).

Step-by-step — applying with the City of Charleston (new licenses)

Start with the application action. Do not lease or open before confirming zoning and occupancy.

• Apply online or contact the City’s Business License office through the official site: City of Charleston — Business License (official). If you already have licenses in multiple SC cities, you can also renew through the state portal: MASC — BL Renewal Portal.
• Confirm zoning and occupancy before you submit. The City will not issue a license for non-conforming uses. Start at the City’s Permit Center: City of Charleston — Permit Center. Ask about zoning approval and whether a Certificate of Occupancy (CO) is needed for your space.
• Gather required information: legal business name, FEIN or SSN, physical business address, NAICS code, estimated first-year gross income (new businesses estimate), and any professional/health permits your business type requires.
• Submit your application and fee. Charleston (like other SC cities) calculates license tax based on your business class (NAICS-based) and gross income. The City’s official page will link to the current year’s rate schedule. Always use the current year schedule from the City’s site.
• Watch for a follow-up. If the City needs zoning, fire, or building approvals, they will direct you to those teams before issuing your license. Keep your correspondence and any approval letters.

Required documents commonly requested:

• FEIN confirmation letter or SSN (sole proprietor without EIN)
• Trade name/DBA if used; formation documents if an LLC or corporation
• State-level permits if your trade is regulated (for example, LLR credentials; DHEC permits if food)
• Lease or proof of property owner’s consent for the use
• Zoning approval and Certificate of Occupancy if required

Renewals:

• Under Act 176, most municipal business licenses in South Carolina renew by April 30 each year (license period May 1–April 30). Confirm the exact date on the City’s page and renewal notice. Renew via the City’s portal or MASC BL Renewal Portal.

Fees:

• Charleston’s business license tax is based on your prior-year gross income and a class schedule tied to NAICS. New businesses estimate first-year income. The City publishes its annual rate schedule and class list on its official site. Always use the current posted schedule: City of Charleston — Business License.

Timelines:

• Processing time depends on zoning and inspections. Straightforward home-based and professional service applications often process faster than retail/restaurant uses that need inspections. The City does not guarantee same-day issuance.

Where to get help:

• City contact directory (find Business License, Permit Center, Zoning, Fire, and Building): City of Charleston — Contact & Directory.

Real-world example:

• A boutique opening on King Street needs City zoning approval for retail use, possibly a minor fit-out building permit, then the City business license. If selling taxable goods, it must also get a SC Retail License via SCDOR MyDORWAY. If they later add beer and wine, they’ll need SCDOR ABL permits, but they must maintain their City business license regardless. Links: City of Charleston • SCDOR — MyDORWAY • SCDOR — ABL

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If your application stalls, ask the City which approval is holding it up (zoning, fire, building). Contact those teams directly via the City directory: City of Charleston — Contact & Directory.
• If you learn your address isn’t in City limits, apply with Charleston County instead: Charleston County — Business License.
• If the issue is state licensing (LLR, DHEC, ABL), contact the state agency’s help resources: LLR • DHEC • SCDOR ABL.

---

Operating outside city limits? Charleston County business licensing

If your business location is in unincorporated Charleston County (not inside any city boundary), you’ll license with Charleston County. The County also follows South Carolina’s Business License Standardization Act for renewal timing and classification.

Most important action item:

• Go to the County’s official site to confirm requirements and apply: Charleston County — Revenue Collections & Business License.

Key points:

• Similar to the City, the County uses NAICS-based classifications and a gross income schedule.
• Renewal due by April 30 under Act 176, unless a different date is posted by the County. Always check the current County page.
• If you perform work both in the City and in unincorporated County, you may need licenses in each jurisdiction for the work performed in that jurisdiction.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you’re unsure whether your site is in a municipality, ask the County or City via their official contact directories: Charleston County — Contact • City of Charleston — Contact & Directory.
• For specific rate schedule questions, ask for the current year’s business license rate schedule directly from the County’s Revenue Collections page.

---

South Carolina Retail License (Sales Tax License) — when you need it and how to get it

If you sell taxable goods (and certain services), you must register with SCDOR for a Retail License before starting sales. Many restaurants, shops, caterers, salons selling products, and mobile vendors need this.

Most important action item:

• Apply online with SCDOR using MyDORWAY: SCDOR — MyDORWAY (official).

Key facts and figures:

• As of August 2025, SCDOR states there is no fee ($0) for the Retail License. Confirm on SCDOR’s official site: SCDOR — Retail License overview.
• South Carolina’s statewide sales tax rate is 6%. Local sales and use taxes may apply on top of the state rate and vary by county/municipality and by tax type (transportation, education capital projects, etc.). Check SCDOR’s site for current combined rates and rules: SCDOR — Sales & Use Tax (official).
• Registering on MyDORWAY also lets you add withholding (if you have employees) and other tax accounts under one profile.

Documents/info to apply:

• Legal name, FEIN/SSN, business address, NAICS code, ownership info, opening date, and activity type.
• If collecting hospitality or accommodations taxes, consult SCDOR and local rules.

Real-world example:

• A mobile coffee cart operating downtown must hold a City business license and an SCDOR Retail License to collect and remit sales tax on drinks and pastries. Links: City of Charleston — Business License • SCDOR — MyDORWAY • DHEC Food Safety

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If the online application flags an error on MyDORWAY, use the support options on the portal: SCDOR — MyDORWAY Support.
• For a tough taxability call (e.g., is your service taxable?), consult SCDOR’s official guidance and contact options: SCDOR — Sales & Use Tax.

---

Zoning, occupancy, and space readiness (don’t skip this)

Before the City issues your business license, your proposed use must be allowed by zoning and, if required, your space must have a Certificate of Occupancy (CO). Early checks save time and money.

Most important action item:

• Contact the City’s Permit Center to verify your use is allowed at your address and what inspections are required: City of Charleston — Permit Center.

Checklist:

• Verify zoning for your business type (e.g., retail, restaurant, office, manufacturing).
• Determine if your fit-out requires building permits. Many interior changes do.
• Confirm fire code requirements (especially for assembly, kitchens, or occupant load).
• Confirm accessibility requirements before you design or build.
• For home-based businesses, review Home Occupation rules; expect limitations on signage, traffic, storage, and on-site employees.

Plan for time:

• Permits and inspections add time. Start with zoning questions before you sign a long lease. The City’s Permit Center can outline the process.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If zoning is not compatible, ask about alternative zones, variances, or other locations.
• If you inherit a space from a prior use, you may still need a new CO. Ask the Permit Center.
• If timelines are critical, consider a phased opening (e.g., retail before café service) only if approved by the City.

---

Common Charleston business types and what they need

Table 2 — Examples by business type

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• When in doubt about your NAICS class or required permits, ask the City’s Business License team via the official directory and verify state-level requirements on LLR/DHEC pages. Use official links above.

---

Fees and timelines overview (what costs to expect)

Some costs are predictable statewide; others (like local business license tax) depend on your NAICS class and gross receipts.

Table 3 — Typical filings, current known fees, and where to pay

Reality check:

• Local business license taxes are not flat. They scale by your industry classification and gross receipts. Always pull the current year’s schedule from the City or County’s official page.
• Don’t rely on a prior year’s bill—rates and CPI adjustments can change annually.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you can’t locate the City’s current schedule online, contact the City via its directory and ask them to email the current PDF rate schedule.
• If your operations cross multiple cities, the MASC BL Renewal Portal can simplify renewals and keep the statewide rules straight.

---

The application packet: documents and data to have ready

You’ll move faster if you assemble your documents before you apply.

Table 4 — What most Charleston businesses need to apply

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If any item is unclear (e.g., NAICS), use the City’s licensing staff and official NAICS search to choose the closest match. When in doubt, ask.
• If you’re waiting on DHEC/LLR approvals, let the City know your timeline so they can advise on sequencing.

---

Payroll, hiring, and insurance (state requirements tied to starting up)

If you plan to hire employees in South Carolina, you must handle state withholding, unemployment insurance, and workers’ compensation requirements.

Most important action items:

• Withholding tax: Register with SCDOR via MyDORWAY for state withholding if you have employees: SCDOR — MyDORWAY.
• Unemployment insurance (SUTA): Register as an employer with SC Department of Employment and Workforce (DEW). Start here: SC DEW — Employers (official).
• New hire reporting: Report new employees to the SC New Hire Reporting Directory within the federal timeframe (generally 20 days). See: SC New Hire Reporting (official).
• Workers’ compensation: Most employers with four or more employees must carry coverage under SC law. Review requirements at: SC Workers’ Compensation Commission (official).

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• For withholding questions, use MyDORWAY’s help resources: SCDOR — MyDORWAY.
• For unemployment registration issues, contact DEW via their employer resources: SC DEW — Employers.
• For workers’ comp coverage questions, consult WCC resources or a licensed insurance agent: SC WCC.

---

Specialty cases you’ll see in Charleston (what to know before you apply)

Food and beverage (restaurants, caterers, food trucks)

Most important action item:

• Start early with DHEC plan review for any food establishment and align with the City’s building/permit requirements at the same time. Official guidance: SC DHEC — Retail Food.

What’s involved:

• DHEC plan review and pre-operational inspection
• SCDOR Retail License for sales tax
• City business license and zoning/occupancy approvals
• Grease trap and fire suppression requirements for kitchens

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you’re held up by plan review, ask DHEC what’s missing and whether a pre-opening inspection can be scheduled. Coordinate with the City Permit Center on construction timelines.

Alcohol service (beer/wine/liquor)

Most important action item:

• Apply for state Alcohol Beverage Licensing (ABL) permits with SCDOR after confirming local zoning and distance rules. See: SCDOR — ABL.

Key notes:

• ABL permits are in addition to your City business license.
• ABL has location, notice, and suitability requirements. The timelines can be longer than a standard retail setup.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If your ABL application is delayed, confirm you’ve met notice/publication and distance requirements and that local approvals are complete. Contact SCDOR ABL using the contact options on the official ABL page.

Contractors and trades

Most important action item:

• Verify state licensure through LLR before bidding or pulling permits. See: SC LLR — Contractors Licensing Board.

Common requirements:

• LLR license in the appropriate classification and group limit
• City building permits and inspections for work in city limits
• City business license for work performed in city limits

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If your LLR application is pending, ask the City whether any provisional steps are allowed (often not). Don’t start work without required state/local licensing.

Short-term rentals (STRs)

Most important action item:

• Read and follow the City’s STR rules and zoning limits before you list a property. Start from the City’s main site and search STR rules: City of Charleston — official site.

Notes:

• STRs are tightly regulated; owner-occupancy, zone, and unit limits apply.
• State accommodations and local hospitality/accommodations taxes apply (SCDOR handles state-level). See: SCDOR — Accommodations Tax.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you find you’re in a prohibited zone or unit type, contact the City’s STR staff via the directory to discuss legal options (e.g., long-term rental instead).

---

Timelines and planning tips

You can’t control everything, but you can stage work to avoid downtime.

• Confirm zoning and space use first—before you sign a long lease or start a buildout. Use: City of Charleston — Permit Center.
• Apply for your SCDOR Retail License while your local zoning/permit steps are in motion. It’s $0 and sets up your tax account: MyDORWAY.
• If food or alcohol is involved, add extra time for DHEC and ABL.
• Mark your calendar to renew by April 30. The City will generally send notices, but you’re responsible for timely filing.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you’re up against an opening date and waiting on one agency, coordinate actively (by email or in person) with the City Permit Center and the relevant state office (DHEC/SCDOR/LLR). Ask what you can do in parallel without violating rules.

---

Common mistakes to avoid

These are the snags that push openings back or trigger penalties.

• Skipping zoning checks and later learning your use isn’t allowed at that address.
• Building out without permits and failing final inspections.
• Forgetting the SCDOR Retail License, then discovering you can’t legally make retail sales on opening day.
• Misclassifying your NAICS code and being billed at the wrong rate.
• Missing the April 30 renewal deadline and paying late penalties.
• Operating in the City without a City license because your HQ is outside city limits.
• Not reporting new hires or registering for withholding/unemployment after hiring.
• Assuming food cottage rules apply when your product is TCS (time/temperature control for safety) and actually requires DHEC permits.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you’ve already made a mistake, contact the relevant office proactively and ask how to fix it (retroactive permits, corrected returns, or amended filings). Sooner is better than later to limit penalties. Use official contact pages listed throughout this guide.

---

Inclusivity, diversity, and accessibility — local and state resources

No two businesses are alike. Here are targeted resources and certifications that can help with contracting opportunities, credibility with buyers, and technical help.

Women-owned

• Federal Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) certification (for federal contracting). See: SBA — Women-Owned Small Business Program.
• City of Charleston supplier programs and local assistance are listed on the City’s site. Start here and search “Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprise” on the official site: City of Charleston — official site.

Minority-owned

• South Carolina state certification and contracting programs are coordinated by state agencies; start at the SC procurement portal and minority/small business program pages. See: State of South Carolina — Procurement & Small/Minority Business Resources.
• City of Charleston also supports M/WBE engagement for local contracting. Find contacts via: City of Charleston — Contact & Directory.

Veteran-owned

• SBA’s Veteran Small Business Certification (VetCert) for federal contracting. See: SBA — Veteran Small Business Certification (VetCert).
• South Carolina Department of Veterans’ Affairs provides resources for veteran entrepreneurs: SC Department of Veterans’ Affairs.

Disability-owned

• Disability:IN offers national Disability-Owned Business Enterprise (DOBE) certification recognized by many corporations: Disability:IN — Supplier Diversity.

LGBTQ+-owned

• National LGBT Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC) offers LGBT Business Enterprise certification recognized widely in supplier diversity: NGLCC — LGBTBE Certification.

Immigrant-owned and language access

• City of Charleston offers translation and accessibility services via official channels. Use the City’s contact directory to request language access for permitting or licensing: City of Charleston — Contact & Directory.
• SCDOR and other state agencies provide multilingual resources; for tax, start at: SCDOR — Sales & Use Tax and look for publications and guides.

Technical assistance (free or low-cost)

• South Carolina Small Business Development Centers (SBDC) offer free 1:1 consulting and training; there is a regional center serving Charleston: SC SBDC — Find Your Center.
• SCORE Charleston provides free mentoring and workshops: SCORE — Charleston SC Chapter.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you’re not sure which certification is best, book a meeting with SBDC or SCORE and bring your target customer/contracting list. They’ll help you choose the most valuable pathway and sequence.

---

Handy directory — who does what and how to reach them

Table 5 — Core agencies you’ll work with

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you get bounced between agencies, ask each to state in writing what document they need and which office issues it. That lets you escalate with clarity.

---

Step-by-step: a realistic sequence that works in Charleston

• Confirm your jurisdiction (City vs. County) using official sites. If City, proceed with City steps. If County, switch to County licensing. Links: City of Charleston • Charleston County.
• Check zoning and occupancy requirements for your address. If needed, plan your build-out and inspections. Link: City of Charleston — Permit Center.
• Form your entity (optional but common) with the SC Secretary of State and get your FEIN. Links: SC SOS Business Filings • IRS — EIN ($0).
• Register for SCDOR accounts on MyDORWAY (Retail License is $0 as of Aug 2025). Link: MyDORWAY.
• Apply for your City business license (or County license) with the correct NAICS code and estimated gross receipts (if new). Link: City of Charleston — Business License • Charleston County — Revenue Collections.
• Apply for DHEC, LLR, or ABL permits if your business requires them. Links: DHEC Food • LLR • SCDOR ABL.
• If hiring, set up payroll with SCDOR withholding, DEW unemployment, new hire reporting, and workers’ comp coverage. Links: SCDOR — MyDORWAY • SC DEW — Employers • SC New Hire Reporting • SC WCC.
• Open accounts with your bank, set up bookkeeping, and store copies of all approvals/permits.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If any approval blocks your City business license, ask the City which prerequisite is missing. Then follow the chain to resolve it (DHEC plan fix, LLR proof, CO issuance). Keep a checklist and dates.

---

Reality checks and warnings (so you aren’t surprised)

• Charleston’s City boundaries are irregular. Double-check addresses against official sources before assuming City vs. County.
• “No fee” for SCDOR Retail License is accurate as of August 2025, but tax obligations remain. You must collect and remit sales tax if your items are taxable. Source: SCDOR — Sales & Use Tax.
• For restaurants, fire suppression and hood systems can be the long pole. Get a contractor and inspections lined up early. See City Permit Center on the City site.
• For alcohol, assume a longer lead time than standard retail. You’ll need to meet posting/notice requirements and suitability standards. Source: SCDOR — ABL.
• Multi-jurisdiction operations (City + County + other cities) require multiple local licenses. The statewide portal helps with renewals but doesn’t replace jurisdictional licensing. Source: MASC — BL Renewal Portal.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If timeline risk grows, create a “must have” vs. “nice to have” opening plan and check with City staff to see what’s allowed as an initial opening scope.

---

Frequently asked questions (SC- and Charleston-specific)

• Do I need a City of Charleston business license if I live in North Charleston but do projects inside the City?
  Yes. If you perform work inside City limits, you typically need a City of Charleston business license for that activity. Source: City of Charleston — Business License.
• What is the renewal deadline for municipal business licenses in South Carolina?
  Most renew by April 30 under the Business License Standardization Act. Always verify with the City’s notice. Source: MASC — BL Renewal Portal.
• How is the City license fee calculated?
  By your NAICS class and gross receipts using the City’s published rate schedule. New businesses estimate first-year gross. Get the current schedule from the City’s Business License page: City of Charleston — Business License.
• Is there a fee to get a South Carolina Retail License?
  As of August 2025, SCDOR states the fee is $0. Verify on SCDOR’s official site: SCDOR — Retail License.
• If I sell food, do I need DHEC?
  Most food businesses (including food trucks and caterers) require DHEC plan review and a permit. Start here: SC DHEC — Retail Food Safety.
• I’m home-based in the City. Do I still need a City business license?
  Yes. Home-based businesses in City limits are licensed and must comply with Home Occupation rules. Source: City of Charleston — Permit Center.
• Do services get taxed for sales tax?
  Some services are taxable in SC, others are not. Check SCDOR’s official Sales & Use Tax guidance to confirm: SCDOR — Sales & Use Tax.
• I’m hiring my first employee. What state registrations do I need?
  Register for withholding with SCDOR (MyDORWAY), unemployment insurance with SC DEW, report new hires, and assess workers’ comp coverage. Sources: SCDOR — MyDORWAY • SC DEW — Employers • SC New Hire Reporting • SC WCC.
• I want to serve beer and wine at my café. What’s required?
  Maintain your City business license, confirm zoning, and apply for state ABL permits through SCDOR. Timelines and requirements vary by permit type. Source: SCDOR — ABL.
• Where can I get help with the application process?
  Use the City’s Permit Center and Business License contacts on the official site, and get free assistance from SBDC and SCORE: City of Charleston — Contact & Directory • SC SBDC • SCORE Charleston.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If your situation is unusual (mixed-use, unusual product or service), ask the City and SCDOR to put their guidance in writing (email). Keep copies for your files.

---

Quick reference: where to file what (with deadlines)

Table 6 — Filing map and deadlines

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If your timing is tight, ask each office which steps can run in parallel. For example, you can set up MyDORWAY while you wait on zoning or inspections.

---

Real examples (how it plays out on the ground)

• A solo electrician based in Summerville takes a job rewiring a downtown Charleston retail space. He must hold a City of Charleston business license for work performed in the City and show LLR contractor credentials when pulling the City electrical permit. He doesn’t need a Retail License unless he’s selling taxable goods at retail. Links: City of Charleston • LLR — Contractors.
• A home-based bakery in the City wants to sell shelf-stable cookies at local markets. They need a City business license, and they need to confirm whether their products fall under DHEC’s home-based food rules or require a retail food permit. They must also register with SCDOR for a Retail License to collect sales tax. Links: City of Charleston • DHEC — Food Safety • SCDOR — MyDORWAY.
• A boutique hotel near downtown lists rooms online. It needs a City license, STR or hotel/inn use approvals based on zoning, and it must handle state accommodations tax and any local accommodations/hospitality taxes through SCDOR and local rules. Links: City of Charleston — Permit Center • SCDOR — Accommodations Tax.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you’re unsure on DHEC vs home-based rules, ask DHEC explicitly about your ingredients and process. Keep their response.
• If a permit is denied, ask what specific changes would make it approvable (e.g., adding a handwash sink, adjusting occupancy).

---

If you’re closing, moving, or changing ownership

Licenses aren’t set-and-forget. Keep records current.

• Moving locations: Check zoning at the new address and update the City. A new CO may be required.
• Ownership change: Most licenses aren’t transferable. Notify the City and SCDOR; the new owner may need a new City license and Retail License.
• Closing the business: File final returns with SCDOR (sales tax, withholding), cancel accounts in MyDORWAY, and close your City license so you don’t get renewal bills.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you keep receiving license bills after closing, contact the City with proof of closure and final SCDOR returns filed through MyDORWAY. Keep confirmation emails.

---

About This Guide

• Scope: This guide covers business licensing and related compliance for the City of Charleston, SC, and unincorporated Charleston County, with key state-level tax and permit steps.
• Sources: Every rule and number presented here links to an official agency page—City of Charleston, Charleston County, SCDOR, DHEC, LLR, DEW, IRS, or SBA. For local license fee amounts, always rely on the current year’s official City or County schedule linked from their sites, as those change annually.
• Accuracy window: Information is current to August 2025. If you are reading this later, use the official links to confirm any updates.

Disclaimer

Program rules, license fees, and processes can change. This guide is for general information only and is not legal, tax, or professional advice. Always confirm current requirements with the City of Charleston, Charleston County, and the relevant South Carolina or federal agency using the official links provided above.