Charleston County, Berkeley County and Dorchester County, South Carolina

North Charleston websites for three-county service pros

North Charleston lets you buy a business license online, but it won't be issued until zoning, building and fire compliance is shown.

Paid online, issued later

North Charleston reaches into Charleston County, Berkeley County and Dorchester County. Its ordinance requires anyone doing business in city limits, in whole or in part, to pay an annual fee and hold a license before opening. Businesses in commercial buildings need a Fire Inspection first.

You can apply and pay online, but the license is not issued until you submit papers showing compliance with the city's zoning ordinance, building code, fire code and other regulatory codes. In person, the Business License Office is in the One Stop Shop on the third floor of City Hall, 2500 City Hall Lane, (843) 740-2634 or 740-2632.

Renewals are handled with Charleston County Revenue Collections. Pay at 4045 Bridgeview Drive or the One Stop Shop, or online through the county's portal after registering as a New Customer, which can take up to five business days. A license paid online arrives by mail two or three days after processing.

The tax uses the NAICS rate class and gross revenue. Renewals for the 2026-2027 year were due April 30, 2026; late payments started at 5% on May 1 and grew 5% each month.

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North Charleston, Charleston, Berkeley and Dorchester

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North Charleston business license

From the City of North Charleston license page and the state renewal center.

New license
Apply online or at the One Stop Shop; issued after zoning, building and fire compliance. City of North Charleston
Late penalty
5% from May 1, adding 5% a month (2026-2027 schedule). Local Business License Renewal Center

North Charleston questions

Can I buy a North Charleston license online?

Yes, but it isn't issued until zoning, building and fire compliance is documented.

Where is the business license office?

The One Stop Shop, third floor of City Hall, 2500 City Hall Lane.

Who handles renewals?

Charleston County Revenue Collections, online or at 4045 Bridgeview Drive, or the One Stop Shop.

What is the late penalty?

5% starting May 1, rising 5% each month.

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