Do I Need a Business License for Fairs & Events?

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Discussion Overview

The thread centers around the necessity of obtaining a business license for participating in fairs and events, with participants sharing their personal experiences and varying interpretations of local regulations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Opinion-based, Anecdotal, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses confusion about the requirement for a business license when not engaging in cash and carry sales at fairs.
  • Another participant mentions that a business license typically costs between $5 and $10 and suggests it is advisable to obtain one if taking orders.
  • One participant shares that their chamber of commerce indicated a license is only necessary if operating a home business with inventory.
  • Several users discuss the varying costs of business licenses, with one noting a fee of $72 and another mentioning a cheaper one-day event license.
  • One participant recounts being told by a city official that a one-day business license does not exist and that licenses are required for each city where shows are held.
  • Another participant expresses frustration over the high costs associated with fairs and licenses, leading them to reconsider participation.
  • One user suggests contacting the chamber of commerce for clarification on licensing requirements.
  • Another participant shares their experience of being unable to sign up for a local fair due to late notice and high booth fees.
  • One participant reflects on the potential for cities to enforce licensing requirements more strictly in the future.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ significantly among participants regarding the necessity and cost of business licenses for fairs and events, with no clear consensus emerging on the requirements.

Contextual Notes

Participants are sharing experiences primarily from their respective locations, which may influence their understanding of local business licensing regulations.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants considering participation in fairs and events may find the shared experiences and insights relevant to their own situations.

T
tiffanypc05
Messages
600
when we go to fairs etc. do we have to have a bus. lic. since we aren't doing cash and carry. theres something going on in my area BUT the lady over it said the city said all vendors had to have bus. lic.

i'm confused so please help!!!1
 
Ususally a business license will only cost you about $5 - $10. If you are doing anything like taking orders and stuff I would get it just to cover yourself. But if you aren't taking any order just handing out flyers and business cards then you won't need it. From what I was told where I'm at is you have to have the business license if you are taking any orders cause you are still receiving money from a customer. So it is better to be safe and get it. It is consider a write off on your taxes. So it helps you out in the long run. Does that make sense.
 
I was told by my chamber of commerce guy that I didn't need one. Only if you were having people going in and out of your home like a store, and were going to be keeping inventory, like having to get a storage shed out back or something. He said that the only reason I would have to get a license is if anyone would complain that there were people going in and out of my house at all times like I had a store in my home or something.
 
I think I was able to use our liability form or flyer at a show when I first started--it should be in the downloads--I just showed them that:D
 
  • Thread starter
  • #5
the bus. lic. here is $72. Can't afford that....who do you call to find out if i really need them or not?
 
tiffanypc05 said:
the bus. lic. here is $72. Can't afford that....who do you call to find out if i really need them or not?
Click to expand...

Your in South Carolina like I am. The business license you are calling about it the one that is covering you for a full year. You don't need that. You need the one that covers you for a one day event. And that runs about 5 dollars or so. That is what I had to get when I participated in an event kind of like a fair. I did it just cover myself. I probably didn't need it. But I felt better knowing I had it. You can call the place that sells the business license and ask them. They should be able to tell you if you really need it or not. But from what they told me I had to have it if I was excepting money for an order. Hope that helps.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #7
kat29 said:
Your in South Carolina like I am. The business license you are calling about it the one that is covering you for a full year. You don't need that. You need the one that covers you for a one day event. And that runs about 5 dollars or so.

The guy over the business license department in the city i'm wanting to do the festival in told me there's no such thing as a one day business liscence.

He also told me that I had to have a bus. licensce for each city, county, and state that I held kitchen shows in. I thought he was crazy. IMO if this was true, pc would tell us that when we signed up.

They are wanting like $75 just for a business liscence for me to use one day!!
Click to expand...
 
HOLY COW... that is crazy!!!!! I would talk to someone at the chamber and commerce and talk to your director as well, Your director should get you in the right direction!!!
 
  • Thread starter
  • #9
she says i don't need one but i'm just not gong to do the fair b/c by the time i pay for bus. lic. and the cost of the fair it's way to much money
 
That just does not make any sence.... I was going to do a fair here localy it cost $300.00 for a Booth!!!! and I found out about it too late so they wouldn't let me sign up for it .... If I want to do it next year I have to sign up for the fair in March ... the fair isn't until the end of JULY?? Now is it me or is that just plain werid??????
 
I would call HO on this. They'll lead you to the right person.
That guy telling you that you have to have one in every county city hmmm I don't know, technically he might be right.
I know technically as a trucking corporation (it's just my hubby and I) EVERY city that he unloads and loads in can tax him. (Like we're not taxed enough!). Nobody has enforced it yet. However we've heard rumor that cities, counties etc. are starting to enforce it to put money in their dwindling pockets.

Kris
 

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a business license to sell at fairs and events?

Yes, in most cases, you will need a business license to sell your products at fairs and events. This ensures that you comply with local regulations and tax requirements. It's important to check with your local government to understand the specific requirements in your area.

What type of business license do I need for fairs and events?

The type of business license you need can vary based on your location and the nature of your sales. Generally, you may need a vendor's permit or a temporary business license. Contact your local city or county clerk's office for detailed information on the necessary permits.

Are there any additional permits required for selling at fairs and events?

Yes, in addition to a business license, you may need additional permits such as a sales tax permit, health permits (if selling food), or special event permits. Again, it's best to check with local authorities to ensure you have all the necessary documentation.

How do I find out about the licensing requirements for my specific event?

To find out about licensing requirements for a specific event, you should contact the event organizer directly. They often provide guidelines for vendors, including any necessary permits and licenses. Additionally, checking the event's official website can provide valuable information.

What happens if I sell at an event without a business license?

Selling at an event without the required business license can result in fines, penalties, or being asked to leave the event. It's crucial to adhere to local laws to avoid any legal issues and to ensure a smooth selling experience.

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