Look up your business license in Memphis
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What Licenses Do You Need in Memphis?
Business license requirements in Memphis, Tennessee depend on your industry, business activities, entity type, and location. Most businesses need several types of licenses to operate legally.
Memphis Business License
A general business license or business tax certificate from the City of Memphis is typically required for any business operating within city limits.
Tennessee State Registrations
State-level tax registrations, professional licenses, and regulatory filings required by Tennessee agencies.
Professional Licenses
If you provide professional services in Memphis (legal, medical, engineering, accounting), you must hold the appropriate state-issued credentials.
Zoning Compliance
Your business location in Memphis must comply with local zoning ordinances. Home-based businesses may need a home occupation permit.
Industry Permits
Food service, health, fire, alcohol, and other industry-specific permits may be required depending on your business activities in Memphis.
Federal Licenses
Businesses in regulated industries (alcohol, firearms, broadcasting, transportation) must also obtain federal licenses and permits.
Licensing Office
Shelby County Clerk, Business Tax Division
150 Washington Avenue, Memphis, TN 38103
Second Floor
Monday-Friday, 8:30 am - 4:15 pm (Downtown); Monday-Friday, 9:00 am - 5:15 pm (East Branch)
Information verified as of August 1, 2026
Web VerifiedBusiness Licensing in Memphis
Memphis businesses must obtain two licenses: one from the City of Memphis Clerk and one from the Shelby County Clerk. Two license tiers apply statewide: the Minimal Activity License ($3,000–$99,999 annual gross receipts) costs $15 per year to each clerk and requires no state business tax return; the Standard Business License ($100,000+ gross receipts) costs $15 once per clerk and requires an annual business tax return filed with the TN Department of Revenue (minimum $22 tax due). Both license types expire on the anniversary of the original application date, not a fixed calendar date.
Important Dates & Deadlines
Renewal Due Date
15th day of the 4th month following the end of fiscal year (e.g., April 15 for calendar-year businesses)
Renews annually
Late Payment Penalties
5%/month on unpaid tax, max 25%; minimum $15.
Did You Know? — Memphis Business Licensing Facts
Need TWO licenses: $15 city AND $15 county
Expire on anniversary of application, not fixed date
East Branch Office at 1075 Mullins Station Road for suburban convenience
Who Is Exempt from Memphis Business Licensing?
Under $3,000 gross receipts exempt; manufacturers exempt; additionally exempt by category: accountants, attorneys, dentists, doctors, insurance agents, loan companies, public utilities, religious organizations, schools, security exchanges, veterinarians.
Memphis Business License Forms
Information Technology
BUILDING PERMITS
PERMITS OFFICE
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
Apply for a business license
Renewing your business license
Professional licenses
Regulatory permits and licenses
Applying for an alcohol license
Transient Vendor License
Fee Schedule
| Fee | Amount | Period |
|---|---|---|
City of Memphis Minimal Activity License City of Memphis Minimal Activity License: $15.00 annual — For businesses with annual gross receipts of 3,000–99,999 | Varies | varies |
City of Memphis Standard Business License City of Memphis Standard Business License: $15.00 one-time — For businesses with annual gross receipts of 100,000 or more | Varies | varies |
Shelby County Minimal Activity License Shelby County Minimal Activity License: $15.00 annual — For businesses with annual gross receipts of 3,000–99,999 | Varies | varies |
Shelby County Standard Business License Shelby County Standard Business License: $15.00 one-time — For businesses with annual gross receipts of 100,000 or more | Varies | varies |
How CLS Helps Businesses in Memphis
Navigating business licensing in Memphis, TN doesn't have to be complicated. CLS provides end-to-end licensing support so you can focus on what matters—running your business.
License Research
We identify every license and permit required for your specific business in Memphis.
Application Filing
Our specialists prepare and submit all applications, ensuring accuracy to prevent delays.
Renewal Management
We track every renewal date and handle the process proactively—no missed deadlines.
Dedicated Support
A real compliance expert assigned to your account—not a chatbot or call center.
Complete Compliance in Memphis, TN
CLS is the only provider that combines business licensing with a full suite of compliance services—all managed in one platform.
Penalties for Operating Without a License in Memphis
Businesses found operating without required licenses in Memphis, TN can face penalties ranging from late-fee surcharges to four-figure fines per violation, cease-and-desist orders, revocation of existing permits, inability to enforce contracts, and in some cases criminal misdemeanor charges. Don't risk your business.
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Every city has different fees, deadlines, and penalties. Miss your filing window and penalties range from late-fee surcharges to four-figure fines — and operating unlicensed can mean forced closure. Search below to get the exact requirements for your location.
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How to Get a Business License in Memphis, TN
Follow these steps to obtain your Memphis business license. Requirements vary by business type, but this is the general process for most businesses in Memphis, TN.
Choose Your Business Structure
Before applying for a Memphis business license, determine your entity type (sole proprietorship, LLC, corporation, partnership). Your structure affects which licenses you need and how you register with Tennessee and the IRS.
Check Zoning Requirements
Verify that your business location in Memphis is zoned for your intended use. Contact the Memphis Planning Department for zoning verification. Home-based businesses typically need a home occupation permit.
Register with the State of Tennessee
Register your business entity with the Tennessee Secretary of State (if applicable), obtain an EIN from the IRS, and register for state tax obligations including sales tax and employer withholding.
Apply for Your Memphis Business License
Submit your business license application to the Shelby County Clerk, Business Tax Division. Applications can typically be submitted online, in person, or by mail. Include all required documentation and fees.
Obtain Additional Permits
Depending on your industry in Memphis, you may need additional permits — health department permits for food service, fire department approval, alcohol licenses, professional licenses, or industry-specific certifications.
Display Your License and Stay Compliant
Once issued, display your Memphis business license prominently at your place of business. Licenses renew annually. Track renewal deadlines to avoid penalties and late fees.
Memphis Business License FAQ
Business Licensing in Other Tennessee Cities
CLS also provides business license services in these Tennessee cities.
Sources & Verification
Memphis, Tennessee business license information on this page was compiled and verified by Corporate Legal Services from official government sources — last verified .
Memphis business license information last verified August 1, 2026. Fees, deadlines, and requirements are subject to change. Verify with Memphis or contact CLS for current requirements.
Content reference: CCP-DDCFBE3552DC