How to Get a Business License in Huntsville, Alabama

Businesses in Huntsville, Alabama, including companies run from private residences, are required under city code to have a business license. In Huntsville, the required legal document to operate a business is called a privilege license. Most businesses require a simple privilege license, though some such as restaurants require specific inspections before any legal documentation will be issued. In addition, companies that operate outside of Huntsville, but offer services or events in the city, are still required to get a city privilege license.

Instructions

1. Visit the City of Huntsville website (see Resources section) and download and print the form "Annual Privilege License Tax Return."

2. Download and print the form "City of Huntsville Privilege License Approval Application for a Commercial Address" or "City of Huntsville Privilege License Approval Application for a Residential Address," depending on whether your business is going to being operated from a home or a commercial property.

3. Determine your company's tax liability by reading "Chapter 15 of the City of Huntsville Municipal Code" (see Resources) or calling [phone]. Most companies pay about $65 in taxes, though there are some exceptions.

4. Fill out your tax return and privilege license approval application. Aside from standard business and personal identifying information such as names and addresses, you will need to provide information such as the gross revenue for your company and whether or not your firm is incorporated. Those seeking first-time business licensure will likely have no gross revenue to report on the tax return. The basic filing fee to get a privilege license is $10, plus any required taxes.

5. Review the Huntsville website before mailing in your business license application to ensure you are not a company required to submit to special inspections, fill out additional forms, or pay more taxes and other fees. For example, anyone seeking to run taxicab or limousine services, a bingo hall, a construction business, or serve food or alcohol must go through a more comprehensive process.

6. Mail your payment by money order to City of Huntsville, Clerk-Treasurer Department, License Division, P.O. Box 308. Huntsville, Alabama 35804-0308. Alternatively, you can deliver the documents and payment to City of Huntsville, Clerk-Treasurer Department, License Division, 308 Fountain Circle, 3rd floor, Huntsville, Alabama 35801. This address can also be used for overnight mail.

Resources

• City of Huntsville, Alabama Business License
• Chapter 15 of the City of Huntsville Municipal Code