The purpose of a Business License is to determine whether a business is operating within the applicable Federal, State, and local laws. It ascertains that businesses maintain a safe environment for the general public. It also insures the location is properly zoned for the activity to be conducted and that zoning, building and fire codes are enforced, which ensures employee and public health, safety and welfare.

 

Who needs a business license?

Anyone conducting business in Provo City, either permanently or temporarily, is required to obtain and maintain a current business license. Conducting business means:

 

Certain business professions are specifically exempt by the State of Utah from license fees. Even though these professions are exempt from license fees, they typically are not exempt from the rest of the license process including filing a valid license application and completing necessary safety inspections or zoning requirements.

 

State licensed contractors only need to be licensed in the City where they have an office-this includes home-based offices.

 

Who needs to register their business?

All businesses in Utah are required by law to register with the Utah Department of Commerce either as a “DBA” (Doing Business As), corporation, limited liability company or limited partnership. In addition, certain types of businesses need special licenses and permits in order to operate, i.e., insurance agents, contractors, doctors and dry cleaners, etc. Businesses are also required to obtain a business license from the city or county in which they are located.

 

Why are businesses required to register?

Registration insures that the business name cannot be legally used by another business. The more you use the registered name and become known to the public by name, the more legal protection your name earns against "predatory encroachment" by other businesses. Registration is required so that a comprehensive state registry of all business and corporate information is available for public reference. This information is vital to an orderly legal system and marketplace. Without it, the public or other businesses may have no way of knowing the persons with whom they are doing business.In addition, registration is required by law to provide public notice as to who owns or stands behind a business entity. You cannot file a lawsuit in court as a business if your business is not registered. Registration enables careful business people to verify information about companies with whom they do business.

 

How can I register my business name?

You can register a business name through Utah’s OneStop Online Business Registration Website or

How do I get a sales tax number?

You can apply online through Utah's OneStop Online Business Registration Website or

Where do I get a business license application?

You can obtain applications at the Provo City Business License department which is located at the General Services counter at 351 West Center Street or you may download the forms. Office hours are Monday through Thursday, 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. For more information call (801) 852-6523.

 

How long does it take to receive a business license?

Once you have submitted all required documents and fees, it takes approximately 2 weeks for your license to be issued. Prior to the license being issued, the application is reviewed and approved by the following departments:

 

If the business is a food establishment, grocery store, bakery, etc., an inspection is required from the following

departments:

What is the cost of a license for a Commercial business location?

Commercial license fees are based on the number of employees at the business location and are as follows:

Commercial business license fees are pro-rated the first year of operation.

 

Can I operate a business from my home?

If your business meets the conditions outlined in Chapter 14.41, it could be approved. The application process, requirements, and expiration are the same as Commercial business licenses.

 

What are the fees for a home-based business?

The business license fees for a business operated from your home are as follows:

 

When does the license expire?

All commercial and home based business licenses expire December 31st of each year.

 

How do I renew my license?

Renewal notices for the following year are mailed by the business license office in mid-November. Payments are due on or before December 31.

 

What are the penalties if the payment is late?

Delinquent licenses are assessed a $25.00 late penalty February 1st. If payment is not received, you may be issued a citation for operation of a business without a license.

 

What if my business changes locations within the City Limits of Provo?

Business licenses are issued for a specific business address. Changes in address require an application for the new location. There is a $25.00 processing fee which should be submitted with the application.

 

What if my business closes or moves out of Provo?

If your business status changes, please notify the business license department using one of the following methods:

 

Are licenses transferable?

A business license cannot be transferred from one person or business to another. When a change of ownership of the business takes place, a new license must be applied for.

 

Will I need a background check?

Background checks are required for the following businesses: taxi cab drivers, tow truck drivers, beer and liquor licenses, sexually-oriented businesses and sexually oriented business employees.

 

How can I get a list of business licenses issued by the City?

You can get a list of the current list of Provo City business online. This list is updated at the beginning of each month.