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Business Licenses

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1. Who is required to obtain a business license?

Section 7.01 of the City of Beaverton Municipal Code requires that anyone engaging in any business within the city limits is required to pay a business license fee unless specifically exempt by state or federal statute. Beaverton City Code

2. I am licensed through the State - am I still required to have your license?

There isn’t a State license. At that level, you are registering your Business name which can be for the entire state or per county.

3. My business is in my home in Beaverton but all of my work is done outside the City limits - am I required to have a license?

Yes, because your business is within the City limits.

4. How are the City of Beaverton's business license fees calculated - on what basis?

The fees are based on the number of people working for the business within the City limits. For apartments, hotels and motels, the fee is based on the number of dwelling units. Business License Fee Schedule

5. Where do I obtain liability insurance and how do I meet bonding requirements?

It is not a business license requirement to have liability insurance and bonding; however, many companies will not hire you if you do not have it. Your private insurance company will provide this coverage for you.

6. I am a contractor and have hired sub-contractors to complete a job - am I required to include them on my Business license?

Sub-contractors are required to have their own business license as they are not your employees.

7. I want to start a business out of my home, what licensing will I need?

If you live in a residential area, you need to check with the Planning Division to see if you are zoned to operate the business from your home. Depending on the type of business, you may be required to obtain a home occupation permit. Planning Division, Community Development

8. I live in Washington County but would like to have a business license - may I apply with your City?

Yes.

9. Is the Business License a tax for the City of Beaverton?

The license is General Fund revenue for the City. The fee is to cover processing and administration costs incurred.

10. Does the City of Beaverton require solicitation permits?

No. The business license is all that is required. Business licenses are required for door-to-door solicitors per Beaverton Code section 7.04.055.

11. If we have more than one location, is a business license required for each location?

No. If all businesses are being conducted under the same business name, or are
related companies, then all may be listed on one license. This includes franchises,
adult foster care homes, child care facilities, etc...

12. What types of businesses are not required to obtain a license?

Insurance, utility, and real estate (provided they do not post signs).

13. Do I need to get a business license as the new owner of an existing business in the City of Beaverton?

Yes. Business licenses are not transferable to the new owner when a business is sold.

14. When does a hairdresser have to obtain a license?

If a hairdresser is leasing a space, they are considered an independent contractor and are required to obtain a license. Beginning in 2009, hairdressers are also required to obtain an independent contractor's license through the State of Oregon.

15. If I own properties, to rent or lease, is a business license required?

If you own three or more dwelling units within the City that are rented or leased, you are required to have a business license.

16. My business is beginning in August do I need to buy a full year’s license?

No, the charge will be pro-rated for a half year. You can expect a renewal form before the start of the new calendar year.

17. How do I measure or record the square footage of business?

You should record all the floor area used by the business for each location in Beaverton. If multiple floors in a single building, please add them together. Home occupations are not required to provide information as to the size of the business.

18. When can I use a seasonal license?

Seasonal licenses are primarily for seasonal events such as Christmas tree sales, 4th of July fireworks sales, holiday related events.
You determine the start date of the business period and the license will be active for 4 months from the beginning of that month. The charge is $25 for each “season”.