Does SC Require a Business License?

The state does not have a standard business license. You will need to contact your local county or municipality to see if a license is required.

Most South Carolina municipalities and counties require a business license. You need a license for every town/city or county you plan to do business in.
Business licenses are issued by local governments. Click HERE for a list of counties. Nine counties require a county business license.
You should double-check with the county office in case the resource list is not up to date.

In addition to a sales tax license, you may need other licenses like a liquor license, food permit, or taxi/limo license. You can get info on those from the Department of Revenue, Department of Health and Environmental Control, and Office of Regulatory Staff.
To run a home business in South Carolina, you need to register your company with the county or city where you live and work. You also may need a general business license or permit.
To form an LLC in South Carolina, file paperwork with the Secretary of State. Corporations also need to submit an initial annual report, Form CL-1.
Sole proprietors don’t need a general business license in South Carolina. But depending on your business, you may need other permits and licenses to operate legally.

Small businesses are defined as having fewer than 500 employees. The cost of licenses and permits varies. Contact the Department of Revenue to learn what your business requires.