Look up your business license in Burlington
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What Licenses Do You Need in Burlington?
Business license requirements in Burlington, Vermont depend on your industry, business activities, entity type, and location. Most businesses need several types of licenses to operate legally.
Burlington Business License
A general business license or business tax certificate from the City of Burlington is typically required for any business operating within city limits.
Vermont State Registrations
State-level tax registrations, professional licenses, and regulatory filings required by Vermont agencies.
Professional Licenses
If you provide professional services in Burlington (legal, medical, engineering, accounting), you must hold the appropriate state-issued credentials.
Zoning Compliance
Your business location in Burlington 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 Burlington.
Federal Licenses
Businesses in regulated industries (alcohol, firearms, broadcasting, transportation) must also obtain federal licenses and permits.
Licensing Office
Clerk/Treasurer's Office
149 Church St, Room 20
Burlington, VT 05401
Mon–Fri 8:00 AM–1:00 PM and 1:30 PM–4:30 PM (closed 1:00–1:30 PM daily for lunch; closed at 1:00 PM on Mondays before elections; closed 10:15–11:45 AM on the third Thursday of each month for staff meetings)
Information verified as of June 11, 2026
Web VerifiedBusiness Licensing in Burlington
Burlington requires business licenses for specific regulated activities (cannabis, liquor, peddler/vendor, and vehicle-for-hire/taxi) through the Clerk/Treasurer's Office. A zoning permit from the Department of Permitting & Inspections (645 Pine Street) is required for most commercial uses. Vermont does not impose a general state business license.
Important Dates & Deadlines
Renewal Due Date
Peddler licenses expire May 31 annually; all forms and fees must be received before June 1 or the license lapses. Other license types (cannabis, liquor, vehicle-for-hire) have deadlines governed by their respective programs.
Renews annually
Late Payment Penalties
Operating without a required license may result in fines and enforcement action.
What You Need to Apply in Burlington
Did You Know? — Burlington Business Licensing Facts
Burlington is Vermont's largest city with a vibrant Church Street Marketplace pedestrian mall
Vermont does not have a general state business license requirement
Burlington's zoning permits are required for most commercial uses through the Department of Permitting & Inspections (645 Pine Street)
The city is home to the University of Vermont and is a nationally recognized food and craft beer destination
Who Is Exempt from Burlington Business Licensing?
Nonprofit organizations may be exempt from certain fees. University of Vermont operations and government entities are exempt.
Fee Schedule
| Fee | Amount | Period |
|---|---|---|
Peddler license – General District — /year or /month | $100 | annual |
Peddler license – Central District Peddler license – Central District — /year or /month (currently closed to new applicants) | $300 | annual |
Peddler license – University Place — /year | $100 | annual |
Peddler license – University Place — vehicle endorsement | $300 | annual |
Background check fee (all peddler applicants including renewals): /per Background check fee (all peddler applicants including renewals): /person | $45 | annual |
How CLS Helps Businesses in Burlington
Navigating business licensing in Burlington, VT 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 Burlington.
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 Burlington, VT
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 Burlington
Businesses found operating without required licenses in Burlington, VT 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.
Get a free compliance assessmentFind Your City's Business License Requirements in Seconds
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.
Not sure what you need? Get a free compliance assessment — our licensing experts will identify every requirement for your business.
How to Get a Business License in Burlington, VT
Follow these steps to obtain your Burlington business license. Requirements vary by business type, but this is the general process for most businesses in Burlington, VT.
Choose Your Business Structure
Before applying for a Burlington business license, determine your entity type (sole proprietorship, LLC, corporation, partnership). Your structure affects which licenses you need and how you register with Vermont and the IRS.
Check Zoning Requirements
Verify that your business location in Burlington is zoned for your intended use. Contact the Burlington Planning Department for zoning verification. Home-based businesses typically need a home occupation permit.
Register with the State of Vermont
Register your business entity with the Vermont 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 Burlington Business License
Submit your business license application to the Clerk/Treasurer's Office. 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 Burlington, 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 Burlington business license prominently at your place of business. Licenses renew annually. Track renewal deadlines to avoid penalties and late fees.
Burlington Business License FAQ
Business Licensing in Other Vermont Cities
CLS also provides business license services in these Vermont cities.
Sources & Verification
Burlington, Vermont business license information on this page was compiled and verified by Corporate Legal Services from official government sources — last verified .
Burlington business license information last verified June 11, 2026. Fees, deadlines, and requirements are subject to change. Verify with Burlington or contact CLS for current requirements.
Content reference: CCP-563C9D032165