Georgetown County, South Carolina

Georgetown websites for Georgetown County service pros

Georgetown requires a license even when a business located in the city has earned no income yet.

Licensed from day one

Georgetown is the Georgetown County seat. Every business located in the city or doing business there pays an annual license tax, and a business physically in the city needs a license even with no income yet, unless it's closed. Some businesses are exempt under state or federal law.

Apply online. Depending on the type and location of the business, other city divisions and state agencies may need to approve or inspect before the license is issued, and you may owe a utility deposit and sign a utility service agreement. The tax depends on location inside or outside the city, the type of business and gross receipts.

New businesses pay on projected gross income through April 30, with no deductions for rent, salaries or cost of goods. Renewals use last year's IRS gross income, and businesses based outside the city report only income earned inside it. Outside contractors can get a per-job license by submitting the contract. Display the license; nonresident businesses carry it on them or in their work vehicle.

Licenses expire April 30, and a 5% late fee is added each month starting May 1. Renew through the state renewal center. For 2026-2027, Class 1 began at $35 for the first $2,000 plus $1.40 per $1,000. The finance office is at 1134 N. Fraser Street, (843) 545-4032.