Kentucky Business License

A businessman opening the office door for his employees

General Business License Requirements for Kentucky.

Business licenses are often required of business entities, regardless of their products and services. This page provides an overview of business license requirements in Kentucky.

Kentucky General Business Licenses

Kentucky Business License

Not required



General Business License licensure is not required on the State level in Kentucky.

Kentucky does not have a general business license at the state level, but local licenses are often required.

Local General Business Licenses

City of Ashland Business Privilege License

Agency:City of Ashland - Department of Finance - Occupational License/Net Profit Division (KY)
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite:No
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required?No

Initial Registration

Form:

Business Privilege License Application (Renewal)

Filing Method:

Mail

Agency Fee:

Fees vary based on the date of the initial application. 

  • January-March: $100
  • April-June: $75
  • July-September: $50
  • October-December: $25
Notes:

The license fee can be paid online

Registration Renewal

Filing Method:

Online

Agency Fee:

$100

Due:

Annually by January 31.

Penalties:

$50 late fee

Notes:

This fee is allowed as a credit against any amount due upon the filing of the annual Net Profit License Fee Return

City of Bardstown Occupational License

Agency:City of Bardstown Finance Department (KY)
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite:No
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required?No

Initial Registration

Form:

Business License Application

Filing Method:

Mail

Agency Fee:

$25

Registration Not Required

Not required



The occupational tax license will remain in good standing as long as all occupational taxes are paid (monthly/quarterly/yearly).

Bellevue Occupational/Business License

Agency:City of Bellevue Clerk's Office (KY)

Initial Registration

Form:

Bellevue Occupational/Business License Application

Agency Fee:

Fees depend on gross receipts. The minimum fee is $60.

Registration Renewal

Form:

Bellevue Occupational/Business License Application (Renewal)

Agency Fee:

Fees depend on gross receipts. The minimum fee is $60.

Due:

Annually by April 15 (or the 15th day of the 4th month following the entity's fiscal year end).

City of Benton Business License

Agency:City of Benton Code Enforcement (KY)
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite:No
Insurance Requirements:

Contractors

  • General Liability Insurance
  • Worker's Compensation Insurance
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required?No

Initial Registration

Form:

Business License Application

Filing Method:

Mail or online

Agency Fee:

Fees vary based on the nature of the business

Required Attachments:
  • Certificate of Liability Insurance, if applicable
  • Certificate of Worker's Compensation Insurance, if applicable

Registration Renewal

Form:

Business License Application (Renewal)

Filing Method:

Mail or online

Agency Fee:

Fees vary based on the nature of the business

Due:

Licenses expire on December 31 and must be renewed by January 31. Renewals can be filed starting on January 1.

Berea Business License

Agency:City of Berea Finance Department (KY)

Initial Registration

Form:

Business License Application

Agency Fee:

$25

Renewal Not Required

Not required



Business licenses are renewed automatically with the filing of local tax returns.

City of Bowling Green Business Registration

Agency:City of Bowling Green Office of Occupational License (KY)
Bond Requirements:

$275 cash bond for the following businesses: 

  • Transient General Contractors
  • Businesses deemed local but have no business site in the City

Initial Registration

Form:

Business Registration Form

Filing Method:

Mail

Agency Fee:

$50

Renewal Not Required

Not required



Renewal is not required as long as quarterly employee withholding and annual net profit taxes are paid in full.

Burkesville Occupational License

Agency:Burkesville City Hall (KY)

Initial Registration

Form:

Application Occupational License

Agency Fee:

$100

Renewal Not Required

Not required



Business licenses are renewed automatically with the filing of a net profits return.

City of Butler Occupational Tax License

Agency:City of Butler City Clerk (KY)
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite:No
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required?No

Initial Registration

Form:

Application forms are not currently available online. Call the City Clerk to request one be delivered via email or US mail, or go to City Hall and apply in person.

Filing Method:

Mail or in-person

Agency Fee:

Fees vary based on the nature of the business

Registration Renewal

Filing Method:

Mail

Agency Fee:

Fees vary based on the nature of the business

Due:

Annually by June 30

Notes:

Renewal notices with instructions will be mailed prior to the expiration of the license

City of Cadiz Business/Privilege License

Agency:City of Cadiz City Hall (KY)
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite:No
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required?No

Initial Registration

Form:

Application for New Business License

Filing Method:

Mail or online (select New Business Registration)

Agency Fee:
  • $50 application fee + $2 portal administration fee (for online payments)
  • Additional fees vary based on the nature of the business and gross receipts

Renewal Not Required

Not required



Business/Privilege licenses are renewed automatically with the filing of local tax returns.

City of Campbellsburg Business License

Agency:City of Campbellsburg Code Enforcement (KY)
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite:No
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required?No

Initial Registration

Form:

Business License Application

Filing Method:

Mail

Agency Fee:

Fees vary the nature of the business and number of employees. See the fee schedule on the application form. 

Registration Renewal

Form:

Business License Application

Filing Method:

Mail

Agency Fee:

Fees vary the nature of the business and number of employees. See the fee schedule on the application form.

Due:

Annually by June 30

Carlisle Business License

Agency:Carlisle City Clerk's Office (KY)

Initial Registration

Agency Fee:

$25

Notes:

Contact the City Clerk for a license application.

Registration Renewal

Agency Fee:

$25

Due:

Annually by December 31.

Notes:

Renewal forms are mailed to licensees prior to the expiration date.

Carrollton Business License

Agency:Carrollton City Clerk's Office (KY)

Initial Registration

Form:

Business License Application

Agency Fee:

Fees depend on business type. See Title XI § 110.10 of the city ordinances for details.

Registration Renewal

Agency Fee:

Fees depend on business type. See Title XI § 110.10 of the city ordinances for details.

Due:

Annually by June 1.

Notes:

Renewal forms are sent in the mail.

Catlettsburg Business Privilege and Occupational License

Agency:Catlettsburg City Treasurer's Office (KY)

Initial Registration

Form:

Business License Application

Agency Fee:

$100

Registration Renewal

Agency Fee:

$100

Due:

Annually by June 30.

Notes:

Renewal notices are mailed to licensees prior to the expiration date.

Coal Run Business License Permit

Agency:Coal Run City Hall (KY)

Initial Registration

Form:

Business License Application

Agency Fee:

$25

Registration Renewal

Form:

Business License Application (Renewal)

Agency Fee:

$25

Due:

Annually by July 1.

Columbia Occupational License

Agency:Columbia City Clerk's Office (KY)

Initial Registration

Form:

Application for Occupational License

Agency Fee:

Fees depend on business activity.

Registration Renewal

Agency Fee:

Fees depend on business activity.

Due:

Licenses expire on June 30 of each year and must be renewed by July 31.

Notes:

Renewal notices are mailed to licensees prior to the expiration date.

Corbin Business License

Agency:Corbin City Collector's Office (KY)

Initial Registration

Form:

Business License Application

Agency Fee:

Fees vary by business type.

Registration Renewal

Agency Fee:

Fees vary by business type.

Due:

Annually by May 15.

Notes:

Renewal forms are sent to licensees prior to the expiration date.

City of Covington Occupational Tax License

Agency:City of Covington - Finance Department (KY)
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite:No
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required?No

Initial Registration

Form:

Occupational License Form

Filing Method:

Mail or fax

Agency Fee:

$50

Registration Renewal

Form:

Occupational License Form

Filing Method:

Mail or fax

Agency Fee:

$50

Due:

Annually by April 15

Danville Occupational License

Agency:Danville Codes Enforcement Department - Business Licensing Section (KY)
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite:No
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required?No

Initial Registration

Form:

Business Registration Application

Agency Fee:

$25

Renewal Not Required

Not required



Occupational licenses are renewed automatically with the filing of local tax returns.

City of Drakesboro Occupational License

Agency:City of Drakesboro City Hall (KY)
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite:No
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required?No

Initial Registration

Form:

Applications are not currently available online. One can be obtained by visiting City Hall or calling (270) 476-8986 and requesting one be sent via email.

Filing Method:

Mail or in-person

Agency Fee:

Fees vary based on the nature of the business

Registration Renewal

Filing Method:

Mail or in-person

Agency Fee:

Fees vary based on the nature of the business

Due:

Annually by date of issuance

Notes:

Renewal notices with instructions will be mailed prior to the expiration of the license

City of Dry Ridge Business License

Agency:City of Dry Ridge Business License Section (KY)

Initial Registration

Form:

New Business License Application

Agency Fee:

$40

Registration Renewal

Form:

Annual Renewal Form

Agency Fee:

Fees depend on gross receipts. The minimum fee is $40 and the maximum fee is $1,000.

Due:

Annually by the 15th day of the 4th month following the entity's fiscal year end (usually April 15).

City of Edmonton Business License

Agency:Edmonton City Hall (KY)

Initial Registration

Form:

City of Edmonton Business License Application

Agency Fee:

$25

Registration Renewal

Form:

City of Edmonton Business License Application (Renewal)

Agency Fee:

$25

Due:

Annually by January 31.

Elizabethtown Business License

Agency:City of Elizabethtown Finance Department (KY)

Initial Registration

Form:

Initial Application Minimum License Fee

Agency Fee:

$25

Registration Renewal

Form:

Renewal Application Minimum License Fee

Agency Fee:

$25

Due:

Annually by January 31.

Elkton Occupational License

Agency:City of Elkton Occupational Licenses Department (KY)
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite:No
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required?No

Initial Registration

Form:

Occupational License Application Form

Filing Method:

Mail.

Agency Fee:

Fees depend on date of application.

Notes:

If the type of business is construction, the occupational license department requires the contractor to supply a complete list of subcontractors, containing name, address & phone number.

Renewal Not Required

Not required



Occupational Licenses are renewed automatically with the filing of local tax returns.

Eminence Business License

Agency:Eminence City Clerk's Office (KY)

Initial Registration

Form:

Business License Application

Agency Fee:

$100 or pro-rated amount of $75, $50, or $25 (fees are pro-rated quarterly).

Registration Renewal

Agency Fee:

$100

Due:

Annually by January 31.

Notes:

Renewal forms are sent to licensees prior to the expiration date.

Flemingsburg Occupational License

Agency:Flemingsburg City Clerk's Office (KY)

Initial Registration

Form:

Business License Application Form

Agency Fee:

A pro-rated fee is due based on when you apply.

Registration Renewal

Agency Fee:

$75

Due:

Annually by January 31.

Notes:

Renewal forms are mailed to licensees prior to the renewal date.

City of Frankfort Business License

Agency:City of Frankfort License Fee Division (KY)
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite:No
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required?No

Initial Registration

Form:

Business License Registration Application 

Filing Method:

Mail

Agency Fee:

$60

Required Attachments:
  • If located within the City limits, attach the applicable Home Office or Commercial Questionnaire.
  • File quarterly withholding returns and annual Net Profit Returns. The rate for each is 1.95%.

Renewal Not Required

Not required



There is no renewal for this license; however, taxes must be paid each year in full for the license to stay active and in good standing.

Franklin Business License

Agency:City of Franklin License Fee Division (KY)

Initial Registration

Form:

Business License Application

Agency Fee:

$100

Registration Renewal

Form:

Business License Application (Renewal)

Agency Fee:

$100

Due:

Annually by January 31.

Georgetown/Scott County Occupational License

Agency:Georgetown-Scott County Revenue Commission (KY)
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite:Yes
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required?No
Requirement Notes:

Most businesses must be registered with the Commonwealth before registering with the Georgetown/Scott County Revenue Commission. (If you are a sole proprietor this step is optional).


Apply with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for a Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN)


Once you have an EIN, you will include it when you register for an occupational license by completing the GSCRC Business Registration Form/Questionnaire for Occupational License.

Initial Registration

Form:

BQ100 Business Registration Form/BQ100 Questionnaire for Occupational License

Filing Method:

Mail, in-person, fax, or email to info@gscrevenue.com

Agency Fee:

$0

Renewal Not Required

Not required



Occupational licenses are automatically renewed each year when an entity files its taxes.

City of Glasgow Business/Occupational License

Agency:City of Glasgow License Fee Division (KY)
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite:No
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required?No

Initial Registration

Form:

Business Registration Form

Filing Method:

Mail

Agency Fee:
  • $25 registration fee
  • Additional fees vary based on the nature of the business and gross receipts

Renewal Not Required

Not required



Business/Occupational licenses are renewed automatically with the filing of local tax returns.

Grayson Business License

Agency:Grayson City Hall (KY)

Initial Registration

Form:

Business License Application

Agency Fee:

$20

Renewal Not Required

Not required



There is no renewal filing; however, licensees must make quarterly reports and pay a fee based on gross receipts.

Harrodsburg Business License

Agency:Harrodsburg Occupational License Administrator (KY)

Initial Registration

Agency Fee:

$100

Notes:

Contact the License Administrator for an application form.

Registration Renewal

Agency Fee:

$100

Due:

Licenses expire on December 31 of each year and must be renewed by January 31.

Notes:

Renewal applications are sent to licensees prior to the expiration date.

Hartford Business License

Agency:Hartford City Hall (KY)

Initial Registration

Form:

Business License Application

Agency Fee:

$75

Registration Renewal

Form:

Business License Application (Renewal)

Agency Fee:

$75

Due:

Annually by June 30.

Hazard Business License

Agency:City of Hazard Office of Tax Administrator (KY)

Initial Registration

Form:

Business License Application

Agency Fee:

$100

Renewal Not Required

Not required



Business licenses are renewed automatically with the filing of local tax returns.

Henderson Occupational License Tax

Agency:City of Henderson Occupational License Tax Division (KY)
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite:No
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required?No

Initial Registration

Form:

OLA Occupational License Application

Agency Fee:

$25

Renewal Not Required

Not required



Occupational licenses are renewed automatically with the annual filing of a Net Profit License Tax Return

City of Hickman Occupational License

Agency:City of Hickman City Clerk (KY)
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite:No
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required?No

Initial Registration

Form:

Occupational License Application

Filing Method:

Mail

Agency Fee:

$50

Registration Renewal

Form:

Occupational License Application (Renewal)

Filing Method:

Mail

Agency Fee:

$50

Due:

Annually by July 1

Hillview Occupational License

Agency:Hillview City Hall (KY)

Initial Registration

Form:

Occupational and Business License Application

Agency Fee:

Fees depend on business services.

Registration Renewal

Agency Fee:

Fees depend on business services.

Due:

Annually by June 30.

Notes:

Renewal forms are mailed to licensees prior to the expiration date.

Hodgenville Business License

Agency:Hodgenville City Hall (KY)

Initial Registration

Form:

Business License Application

Agency Fee:

$50

Registration Renewal

Form:

Business License Renewal Form

Agency Fee:

$50

Due:

Annually by December 31.

Hopkinsville Occupational License

Agency:City of Hopkinsville Finance Department (KY)

Initial Registration

Form:

Business Registration Form

Agency Fee:

$100

Renewal Not Required

Not required



Business licenses are renewed automatically with the filing of the Net Profits License Return.

City of Irvington Business License

Agency:City of Irvington City Hall (KY)
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite:No
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required?No

Initial Registration

Filing Method:

Online

Agency Fee:

$60 + 2.75% service fee for credit cards

Turnaround:

Applications are reviewed monthly by the City Council on the first Monday of each month.

Registration Renewal

Filing Method:

Online

Agency Fee:

$60 + 2.75% service fee for credit cards

Due:

Annually by December 31

Jackson Occupational Business License

Agency:Jackson City Hall (KY)

Initial Registration

Form:

Occupational Business License Application

Agency Fee:

$100 for a full-time license, $75 for an itinerant license, or $50 for a part-time license

Registration Renewal

Form:

Occupational Business License Application (Renewal)

Agency Fee:

$100 for a full-time license, $75 for an itinerant license, or $50 for a part-time license

Due:

Annually by February 1.

Jamestown Business License

Agency:Jamestown City Hall (KY)

Initial Registration

Agency Fee:

$100

Notes:

Contact the city for a license application.

Registration Renewal

Agency Fee:

$100

Due:

Annually by December 31.

Notes:

Renewal forms are mailed to licensees prior to the expiration date.

Jeffersontown Business License

Agency:Jeffersontown Revenue Department (KY)
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite:No
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required?No

Initial Registration

Form:

Business License Registration Form

Agency Fee:

$75 license fee + $1.95 convenience fee

Registration Renewal

Form:

Business License Registration Form (Renewal)

Agency Fee:

$75 license fee + $1.95 convenience fee

Due:

Annually

Jenkins Occupational License

Agency:Jenkins City Hall (KY)

Initial Registration

Agency Fee:

$75

Notes:

Contact City Hall for a license application.

Registration Renewal

Agency Fee:

$75

Due:

Annually by March 1.

Notes:

Renewal forms are mailed to licensees prior to the expiration date.

La Grange Business License

Agency:La Grange Office of the City Clerk (KY)

Initial Registration

Form:

Business License Application

Agency Fee:

$55

Registration Renewal

Form:

Business License Application (Renewal)

Agency Fee:

Fees depend on gross receipts. There is a minimum fee of $55.

Due:

Annually by April 15.

Lawrenceburg Business License

Agency:City of Lawrenceburg Business License Department (KY)

Initial Registration

Form:

Business License Application

Agency Fee:

Fees depend on the number of employees:

  • $65 for 1 employee
  • $200 for 2-5 employees
  • $400 for 6-25 employees
  • $700 for 26-100 employees
  • $1,000 for $101 or more employees

Registration Renewal

Filing Method:

Online

Agency Fee:

Fees depend on the number of employees:

  • $65 for 1 employee
  • $200 for 2-5 employees
  • $400 for 6-25 employees
  • $700 for 26-100 employees
  • $1,000 for $101 or more employees
Due:

Annually by June 30.

Lebanon Business License

Agency:City of Lebanon Tax Department (KY)

Initial Registration

Form:

Business License Application

Agency Fee:

$25

Registration Renewal

Form:

Business License Application (Renewal)

Agency Fee:

$25

Due:

Annually by January 1.

Lebanon Junction Business License

Agency:Lebanon Junction City Hall (KY)

Initial Registration

Agency Fee:

$100

Notes:

There is no application, contact City Hall and answer some questions about your business to register.

Registration Renewal

Agency Fee:

$100

Due:

Annually by January 1.

Notes:

Renewal forms are mailed to license holders before the expiration date.

Leitchfield Business License

Agency:City of Leitchfield Business License Department (KY)

Initial Registration

Form:

Business License Application

Filing Method:

Mail

Agency Fee:

$50

Registration Renewal

Form:

Business License Application (Renewal)

Filing Method:

Mail

Agency Fee:

$50

Due:

Annually on December 31

Louisville/Jefferson County Occupational Tax License

Agency:Louisville Metro Revenue Commission (KY)
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite:No
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required?No

Initial Registration

Form:

Registration Application

Agency Fee:

$0

Renewal Not Required

Not required



Occupational licenses are renewed automatically with the filing of local tax returns.

City of Madisonville Minimum Occupational License

Agency:City of Madisonville - Finance Department KY)
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite:No
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required?No

Initial Registration

Form:

Minimum Occupational License Fee Application

Filing Method:

Mail

Agency Fee:

$25

Registration Renewal

Form:

There is no application to renew an occupational license in the City of Madisonville. All that is needed is timely payment of the annual license fee.

Filing Method:

Mail

Agency Fee:
  • $25
  • This fee can be deducted from the Net-Profit Return at the end of the filing year
Due:

Annually by March 31

Mayfield Net Profit License

Agency:City of Mayfield City Clerk (KY)

Initial Registration

Form:

Net Profits License Form

Instructions:

Instructions for filling out Net Profits License Form

Agency Fee:

The fee depends on business income but there is a minimum fee of $100.

Registration Renewal

Form:

Net Profits License Form (Renewal)

Instructions:

Instructions for filling out Net Profits License Form

Agency Fee:

The fee depends on business income but there is a minimum fee of $100.

Due:

Within 105 days after the close of the entity's fiscal year. For entities with a December 31 fiscal year-end, the due date is April 15.

Maysville Occupational License

Agency:City of Maysville Comptroller's Office (KY)

Initial Registration

Form:

Occupational License & Payroll Tax Application

Agency Fee:

$75

Renewal Not Required

Not required



Business licenses are renewed automatically with the filing of a gross receipts return.

City of Middlesboro Privilege License

Agency:City of Middlesboro - Code Enforcement Department (KY)

Initial Registration

Form:

Privilege License Application

Filing Method:

Mail

Agency Fee:

Fees vary based on the nature of the business and annual gross receipts.

Registration Renewal

Form:

Privilege License Application (Renewal)

Filing Method:

Mail

Agency Fee:

Fees vary based on the nature of the business and net income. 

Due:

Annually by May 1.

Midway Business License

Agency:Midway City Clerk's Office (KY)

Initial Registration

Form:

Business License Application

Agency Fee:

$50

Registration Renewal

Agency Fee:

$50

Due:

Annually by December 31.

Notes:

Renewal forms are mailed to licensees prior to the expiration date.

Monticello Business License

Agency:Monticello City Hall (KY)

Initial Registration

Agency Fee:

Fees depend on business services.

Notes:

Contract the City Clerk's Office for a license application.

Registration Renewal

Agency Fee:

Fees depend on business services.

Due:

Annually by June 30.

Notes:

Renewal notices are mailed to licensees prior to the expiration date.

Mount Vernon Business License

Agency:Mount Vernon City Clerk's Office (KY)

Initial Registration

Agency Fee:

$100

Notes:

Contact the Clerk's Office for an application.

Registration Renewal

Agency Fee:

$100

Due:

Annually by March 1.

Notes:

Contact the Clerk's Office for an application.

Mount Washington Business License

Agency:Mount Washington City Administration Department (KY)

Initial Registration

Form:

Business License Application

Agency Fee:

$75

Registration Renewal

Form:

Business License Application (Renewal)

Agency Fee:

$75

Due:

Annually by December 31.

Munfordville Business License

Agency:Munfordville City Hall (KY)

Initial Registration

Form:

Business License Application

Agency Fee:

$100

Registration Renewal

Form:

Business License Application (Renewal)

Agency Fee:

$100

Due:

Annually by June 30.

City of Murray Business License

Agency:City of Murray Planning and Engineering Division (KY)
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite:No
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required?No

Initial Registration

Form:

Business License Registration Application 

Filing Method:

Mail 

Agency Fee:

Fee determined by business type. See rate schedule

Registration Renewal

Form:

Business License Registration Application (Renewal)

Filing Method:

Mail

Agency Fee:

Fee determined by business type. See rate schedule

Due:

Annually by May 31. 

City of Newport Occupational License

Agency:City of Newport - Department of Finance & Administration - License Division (KY)
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite:No
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required?No

Initial Registration

Form:

CN-2 Application for Occupational License

Filing Method:

Mail

Agency Fee:

$75

Registration Renewal

Form:

CN-16 Renewal of Occupational License (the most current version is located on the side menu to the right)

Filing Method:

Mail

Agency Fee:

Fees vary based on gross receipts

Due:

Annually by April 15 or 105 days after a business's fiscal year-end

Oak Grove Occupational Business License

Agency:City of Oak Grove Taxes, Licenses & Permits Section (KY)

Initial Registration

Form:

Occupational Business License Application

Agency Fee:

$100

Registration Renewal

Form:

Occupational License Tax Renewal

Agency Fee:

Fees depend on gross receipts. The minimum fee is $100.

Due:

Annually by the 15th day of the 4th month following the entity's fiscal year end.

Owensboro Occupational Business License

Agency:City of Owensboro Finance Department (KY)

Initial Registration

Form:

Business License Application

Agency Fee:

$75

Renewal Not Required

Not required



Business licenses are renewed automatically with the filing of local tax returns.

Owenton Business License

Agency:Owenton City Hall (KY)

Initial Registration

Form:

Business License Application

Agency Fee:

Fees depend on business services.

Registration Renewal

Form:

Business License Application (Renewal)

Agency Fee:

Fees depend on business services.

Due:

Annually by December 31.

Paducah Business License

Agency:City of Paducah Finance Department (KY)
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite:No
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required?No

Initial Registration

Form:

Registration Application for a Business License

Filing Method:

Email

Agency Fee:
  • Fees vary based on estimated gross receipts with a minimum of $35
  • $1.50 service fee (paying back e-check) OR 3.75% service charge for credit/debit payments with a $2.50 minimum 
  • Payment can be made online, in-person, or over the phone

Registration Renewal

Form:

Business License Form

Filing Method:

Email

Agency Fee:
  • Fees vary based on estimated gross receipts with a minimum of $35
  • $1.50 service fee (paying back e-check) OR 3.75% service charge for credit/debit payments with a $2.50 minimum 
  • Payment can be made online, in person, or over the phone
Due:
  • Licenses expire annually on December 31 but renewals are not due until April 15
  • Businesses with a fiscal year that is not based on the calendar year may file on the 15th day of the 4th month following their fiscal year-end.

Paris Occupational Business License

Agency:Paris City Clerk's Office (KY)

Initial Registration

Form:

Occupational Business License Application

Agency Fee:

$75

Renewal Not Required

Not required



There is no renewal for this license; however, taxes must be paid each year in full for the license to stay active and in good standing.

Pikeville Business License

Agency:City of Pikeville Tax Department (KY)

Initial Registration

Form:

Business License Application

Filing Method:

Mail or online.

Agency Fee:

$50

Registration Renewal

Agency Fee:

$50

Due:

Annually by December 31.

Notes:

Renewal notices are mailed to licensees prior to the expiration date.

Pioneer Village Business License

Agency:City of Pioneer Village Town Hall (KY)

Initial Registration

Form:

Business License App – Coverall

Agency Fee:

$300

Registration Renewal

Form:

Business License App – Renewal

Agency Fee:

$75

Due:

Annually by July 1.

Prestonsburg Business and Occupational License

Agency:Prestonsburg City Hall (KY)

Initial Registration

Form:

Business License Application

Agency Fee:

Fees depend on business services. See the Minimum License Fee Schedule for details.

Registration Renewal

Form:

Business License Application (Renewal)

Agency Fee:

Fees depend on business services. See the Minimum License Fee Schedule for details.

Due:

Annually by January 1.

Princeton Business License

Agency:City of Princeton Finance Office (KY)

Initial Registration

Form:

Business License Application

Agency Fee:

$50

Renewal Not Required

Not required



Business licenses do not need to be renewed, however, net profit returns must be filed every year.

Supplemental Reporting

Form:

Net Profit Return

Agency Fee:

Vary by gross receipts. See form for details.

Due:

Annually within 105 days after the end of the entity's fiscal year.

City of Prospect Business License

Agency:Prospect City Hall (KY)

Initial Registration

Form:

Business License Application

Agency Fee:

Fees depend on the number of employees:

  • $50 for 5 or fewer employees
  • $100 for 6 to 10 employees
  • $200 for 11 or more employees

Registration Renewal

Form:

Business License Application (Renewal)

Agency Fee:

Fees depend on the number of employees:

  • $50 for 5 or fewer employees
  • $100 for 6 to 10 employees
  • $200 for 11 or more employees
Due:

Annually by December 31.

Radcliff Business License

Agency:City of Radcliff Finance Office (KY)

Initial Registration

Form:

New Business License Application

Agency Fee:

$25 minimum license fee except for contractors, who must provide estimated gross receipts in advance for the period of the date of the license through the balance of the calendar year ending December 31.

Renewal Not Required

Not required



Business licenses are renewed automatically with the filing of a gross receipts return.

City of Richmond Business License

Agency:City of Richmond Finance Department (KY)
Law:

Every person or business entity engaged in any business for profit and any person or business entity that is required to make a filing with the Internal Revenue Service or the Kentucky Revenue Cabinet shall be required to file and pay to the city an occupational license tax for the privilege of engaging in such activities within the city. See § 110.03 for more details. 

Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite:No
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required?No

Initial Registration

Form:

Business License Registration Application 

Filing Method:

Mail 

Agency Fee:

$50 

Turnaround:

3-5 business days

Renewal Not Required

Not required



There is no renewal for this license; however, taxes have to be paid each year in full for the license to stay active and in good standing.

Russellville Occupational License

Agency:City of Russellville Occupational Tax and Licensing Department (KY)

Initial Registration

Form:

Occupational License Registration Form

Agency Fee:

$25

Registration Renewal

Form:

Occupational License Registration Form (Renewal)

Agency Fee:

$25

Due:

Annually by the date of issuance.

St. Matthews Business License

Agency:City of St. Matthews Business License Department (KY)

Initial Registration

Form:

Business License Application

Agency Fee:

$25

Registration Renewal

Form:

Business License Application (Renewal)

Agency Fee:

Fees depend on gross receipts. The minimum fee is $25.

Due:

Annually by April 30.

Salyersville Business Registration

Agency:Salyersville City Hall (KY)

Initial Registration

Agency Fee:

Fees depend on business services. See the City of Salyersville - License Fees According to Trade, Business, or Profession sheet for details.

Notes:

Contact the city for an application form.

Registration Renewal

Agency Fee:

Fees depend on business services. See the City of Salyersville - License Fees According to Trade, Business, or Profession sheet for details.

Due:

Annually by January 1.

Notes:

Renewal forms are sent to licensees prior to the expiration date.

City of Scottsville Occupational Business License

Agency:City of Scottsville City Treasurer's Office (KY)
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite:No
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required?No

Initial Registration

Form:

Occupational Businses License Registration Application

Filing Method:

Mail

Agency Fee:

$30

Registration Renewal

Form:

Occupational Business License Registration Application (Renewal)

Filing Method:

Mail

Agency Fee:

$30

Due:

Annually by January 31.

Shepherdsville Business License

Agency:City of Shepherdsville Tax Administrator (KY)

Registration Renewal

Form:

City of Shepherdsville Application for Business License (Renewal)

Agency Fee:

$100

Due:

Annually by June 30.

Somerset Business License

Agency:Somerset City Clerk's Office (KY)

Initial Registration

Form:

Business License Application

Agency Fee:

Fees depend on business services. See the Business License Rates table for details.

Registration Renewal

Agency Fee:

Fees depend on business services. See the Business License Rates table for details.

Due:

Annually by April 30.

Notes:

Renewal notices are mailed to licensees prior to the expiration date.

Springfield Business License

Agency:Springfield City Hall (KY)

Initial Registration

Form:

Business License Application Form

Agency Fee:

$25

Registration Renewal

Form:

Business License Application Form (Renewal)

Agency Fee:

$25

Due:

Annually by December 31.

Stamping Ground Business License

Agency:City of Stamping Ground Finance and Administration Department (KY)

Initial Registration

Agency Fee:

$50

Notes:

Forms are not available online. Contact the city for an application.

Registration Renewal

Agency Fee:

$50

Due:

Annually by June 30.

Notes:

Forms are not available online. Contact the city for an application.

Stanford Business License

Agency:Stanford Code Enforcement Department (KY)

Initial Registration

Filing Method:

Online

Agency Fee:

$50

Registration Renewal

Filing Method:

Online

Agency Fee:

$50

Due:

Annually by December 31.

Taylorsville Business License

Agency:Taylorsville City Hall (KY)

Initial Registration

Form:

Business License Application

Agency Fee:

$125

Registration Renewal

Form:

Business License Application (Renewal)

Agency Fee:

$125

Due:

Annually by July 1.

Vanceburg Business License

Agency:Vanceburg City Hall (KY)

Initial Registration

Form:

Application for Business License

Agency Fee:

$25.50

Registration Renewal

Form:

Application for Business License (Renewal)

Agency Fee:

$25.50

Due:

Annually by December 31.

City of Versailles Business Registration

Agency:City of Versailles Tax Clerk's Office (KY)

Initial Registration

Form:

Business Registration Form

Agency Fee:

$0

Renewal Not Required

Not required



Occupational licenses are renewed automatically with the filing of local tax returns.

City of Vine Grove Business License

Agency:City of Vine Grove Administrative Department (KY)
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite:No
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required?No

Initial Registration

Form:

VG Business License

Filing Method:

Mail

Agency Fee:

$75 registration fee

Registration Renewal

Form:

VG Business License

Filing Method:

Mail

Agency Fee:

$75 registration fee

Due:

Annually by June 30

City of West Buechel Business License

Agency:City of West Buechel (KY)
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite:No
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required?No

Initial Registration

Form:

Business License Registration Application

Filing Method:

Mail

Agency Fee:

$175

Penalties:

$10.00 late fee will be added for each month after the due date until paid in full.

Registration Renewal

Form:

Business License Renewal Application

Filing Method:

Mail

Agency Fee:

$175

Due:

Annually by June 30.

Penalties:

$10.00 late fee will be added for each month after the due date until paid in full

Whitesburg Business License

Agency:Whitesburg City Hall (KY)

Initial Registration

Agency Fee:

Fees depend on business services.

Notes:

Contact City Hall for an application form.

Registration Renewal

Agency Fee:

Fees depend on business services.

Due:

Annually by December 31.

Notes:

Renewal forms are mailed to licensees prior to the expiration date.

Wilder Occupational License

Agency:Wilder City Hall (KY)

Initial Registration

Form:

Occupational License Application

Agency Fee:

$50

Registration Renewal

Form:

Occupational License Application (Renewal)

Agency Fee:

$50

Due:

Annually by April 30.

Williamsburg Business License

Agency:Williamsburg City Hall (KY)

Initial Registration

Form:

Business License Application

Agency Fee:

$60

Registration Renewal

Agency Fee:

$60

Due:

Annually by December 31.

Notes:

Renewal forms are mailed to licensees prior to the expiration date.

Wilmore Business License

Agency:Wilmore City Clerk's Office (KY)

Initial Registration

Form:

Business License Application

Agency Fee:

$50

Registration Renewal

Form:

Business License Application (Renewal)

Agency Fee:

$50

Due:

Annually by January 31.

Winchester Business License

Agency:City of Winchester Finance Department (KY)

Initial Registration

Form:

Business License Application

Agency Fee:

Fees depend on business services. See the Schedule of Fees for details.

Registration Renewal

Form:

Business License Application (Renewal)

Agency Fee:

Fees depend on business services. See the Schedule of Fees for details.

Due:

Annually by April 30.

Allen County Occupational License

Agency:Allen County Occupational License Tax Division (KY)
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite:No
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required?No

Initial Registration

Form:

Occupational Business License Registration Application

Filing Method:

Mail

Agency Fee:

Fees vary based on gross receipts

Renewal Not Required

Not required



Occupational licenses are renewed automatically with the filing of local tax returns.

Anderson County Business License

Agency:Anderson County Sheriff’s Office (KY)

Initial Registration

Form:

Business License Application

Agency Fee:

Depends on the number of employees:

  • $50 for 1 employee
  • $100 for 2-5 employees
  • $150 for 6-25 employees
  • $200 for 26-100 employees
  • $300 for 101 or more employees

Registration Renewal

Form:

Business License Application (Renewal)

Agency Fee:

Depends on the number of employees:

  • $50 for 1 employee
  • $100 for 2-5 employees
  • $150 for 6-25 employees
  • $200 for 26-100 employees
  • $300 for 101 or more employees
Due:

Annually by July 1.

Boone County and City of Florence Occupational License

Agency:Boone County Occupational Licensing Department (KY)

Initial Registration

Form:

Occupational License/Payroll Tax Application

Agency Fee:

$25 application fee

Renewal Not Required

Not required



Business licenses are renewed with the annual filing of a Net Profit Tax Return.

Breathitt County Occupational License

Agency:Breathitt County City Hall (KY)

Initial Registration

Agency Fee:

$100

Notes:

Contact City Hall for a license application.

Registration Renewal

Agency Fee:

$100

Due:

Annually by May 31.

Notes:

Renewal notices are mailed to licensees prior to the expiration date.

Butler County Occupational Business License

Agency:Butler County Occupational Tax Office (KY)
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite:No
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required?No

Initial Registration

Form:

Occupational Business License

Filing Method:

Mail

Agency Fee:

Fees vary based on the nature of the business, number of employees, and gross receipts

Renewal Not Required

Not required



Occupational licenses are renewed automatically with the filing of local tax returns.

Campbell County Occupational License

Agency:Campbell County Occupational License Office (KY)
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite:No
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required?No

Initial Registration

Form:

Business License Application

Agency Fee:

$25 for only Campbell County. There are additional fees for businesses operating in any of the cities listed on the application.

Registration Renewal

Form:

Annual Return

Agency Fee:

Varies by net profits. The minimum fee is $25 and the maximum is $610.

Due:

Annually by April 15.

Lexington-Fayette Occupational License

Agency:Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government - Division of Revenue (KY)

Initial Registration

Form:

Business Permit (Occupational License) Application

Filing Method:

Mail

Agency Fee:

$100 license fee

Renewal Not Required

Not required



Occupational licenses are renewed automatically with the filing of local tax returns.

Franklin County Business License

Agency:Franklin County Occupational Tax Office (KY)
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite:No
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required?No

Initial Registration

Form:

Business Application

Filing Method:

Mail or online.

Agency Fee:

$40

Renewal Not Required

Not required



There is no renewal for this license; however, withholding returns must be filed quarterly, and net profits returns must be filed annually.

Grant County Business License

Agency:Grant County Fiscal Court (KY)

Initial Registration

Form:

New Business License Application

Agency Fee:

Fees depend on the number of employees:

  • $25 for 5 or fewer
  • $50 for 6-10
  • $100 for 11-25
  • $200 for more than 25

Registration Renewal

Form:

Business License Renewal Form

Agency Fee:

Fees depend on the number of employees:

  • $25 for 5 or fewer
  • $50 for 6-10
  • $100 for 11-25
  • $200 for more than 25
Due:

Annually by January 31.

Hancock County Business License

Agency:Hancock County Occupational Tax Office (KY)
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite:No
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required?No

Initial Registration

Form:

Business License Application

Agency Fee:

$10

Registration Renewal

Agency Fee:

$10

Due:

Annually by January 1.

Notes:

Renewal notices with filing instructions are sent out before the expiration date.

Henderson County Occupational Tax License

Agency:Henderson County Department of Occupational Tax Administration (KY)
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite:No
Notes:

Henderson County current Net Profit rate is 1%, after the first $10,000 of Net Profit with a $2000 cap on Net Profit tax collected. Henderson County current payroll tax is 1%.

Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required?No
Requirement Notes:

Non-profit organizations will not be required to file the Net profit Return provided a copy of an Internal Revenue Service (IRS) letter of exemption is submitted to support the non-profit status. However, Non-profits must still have a business license and submit payroll filings if applicable.

Initial Registration

Form:

Occupational Tax License Registration Application 

Filing Method:

Mail 

Agency Fee:

$25

Before you Apply:
  • Fee is based on net profit
  • Owner's Social Security Number is required

Registration Renewal

Form:

Occupational Tax License Renewal Application

Agency Fee:

$25

Due:

Annually by the end of each fiscal year. 

Johnson County Business Permit

Agency:Johnson County Fiscal Court (KY)

Initial Registration

Form:

Business License Permit Application

Agency Fee:

$25

Registration Renewal

Form:

Annual Business License Renewal

Agency Fee:

$25

Due:

Annually by December 31.

Kenton County Occupational License

Agency:Kenton County Treasury's Office (KY)

Initial Registration

Form:

Kenton County and Cities Occupational License Application

Agency Fee:

$0 for a Kenton County license. The fee is $50 per city if applying for city licenses or $225 if applying for a license that applies countywide.

Renewal Not Required

Not required



Occupational licenses are renewed automatically with the filing of local tax returns.

Laurel County General Business License

Agency:Laurel County Occupational Tax Office (KY)
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite:No
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required?No

Initial Registration

Form:

Application for Business License

Filing Method:

Mail

Agency Fee:

$0

Renewal Not Required

Not required



The business license is renewed automatically with the filing of the annual net profits license fee return.

Madison County Business License

Agency:Madison County Planning and Development Office (KY)

Initial Registration

Filing Method:

Online

Agency Fee:

$50

Renewal Not Required

Not required



Business licenses no longer need to be renewed.

Marshall County Occupational License Tax

Agency:Marshall County Treasurer (KY)
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite:No
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required?No

Initial Registration

Form:

Occupational License Tax Application

Filing Method:

Mail

Agency Fee:

$0

Renewal Not Required

Not required



Business/Occupational licenses are renewed automatically with the filing of local tax returns.

McCracken County Business License

Agency:McCracken County Tax Administrator (KY)
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite:No
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required?No

Initial Registration

Form:

Business License Application

Filing Method:

Mail

Agency Fee:

Fees vary based on net profits

Registration Renewal

Form:

Net Profit License Fee Return

Filing Method:

Mail

Agency Fee:

Fees vary based on net profits

Due:

Annually by April 16

McCreary County Business Permit

Agency:McCreary County Occupational Tax Administrator (KY)

Initial Registration

Form:

Business Permit Application

Agency Fee:

$20

Registration Renewal

Agency Fee:

$20

Due:

Licenses expire on June 30 of each year and must be renewed by July 31.

Notes:

Renewal notices are mailed to licensees prior to the expiration date.

Rowan County Occupational License

Agency:Rowan County Finance Department (KY)

Initial Registration

Form:

Occupational License Application

Agency Fee:

$0

Renewal Not Required

Not required



Business licenses are renewed automatically with the filing of local tax returns.

Shelby County Occupational License

Agency:Shelby County Occupational License Office (KY)

Initial Registration

Agency Fee:

$75

Notes:

Contact the Occupational License Office for an application.

Registration Renewal

Form:

Business License Renewal Form

Filing Method:

Mail or online.

Agency Fee:

$75

Due:

Annually by April 15.

Spencer County Occupational License

Agency:Spencer County Tax Administrator (KY)

Initial Registration

Form:

Business Application

Agency Fee:

$25

Renewal Not Required

Not required



Occupational licenses are renewed automatically with the filing of local tax returns.

Todd County Business License

Agency:Todd County Fiscal Court (KY)
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite:No
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required?No

Initial Registration

Form:

Business License Application

Agency Fee:

$50 license fee

Renewal Not Required

Not required



Business Licenses are automatically renewed with the filing and payment of annual taxes/net profit license fees. 

Washington County Occupational License

Agency:Washington County Occupational Tax Administrator (KY)

Initial Registration

Form:

Business License Application

Agency Fee:

$25

Registration Renewal

Form:

Business License Application (Renewal)

Agency Fee:

$25

Due:

Annually by December 31.

Whitley County Occupational License

Agency:Whitley County Occupational Tax Administrator (KY)

Initial Registration

Form:

Occupational Tax - Application

Agency Fee:

$0

Renewal Not Required

Not required



Business licenses are renewed automatically with the filing of local tax returns.

Woodford County Business Registration

Agency:Woodford County Tax Administrator (KY)
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite:No
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required?No

Initial Registration

Form:

Woodford County Business License Application

Filing Method:

Mail

Agency Fee:

$0

Renewal Not Required

Not required



The business registration is not required to be renewed as long as occupational tax fees (quarterly) and net profit taxes (annually) are paid and kept current.

Learn about general business licensing requirements in other states: