The State License Bureau is responsible for monitoring state business licenses that are required for more than 83,000 businesses, such as a trader's license for retailers and wholesalers who sell goods and merchandise. Other business activities that require licenses include peddlers, auction houses, chain stores, construction, dry cleaners, garages, plumbers and gas fitters, restaurants, storage warehouses, vending machines and retail/vending machines which sell cigarettes. The licenses are valid from May 1 through April 30 of the following year.
State business licenses are obtained from the Clerks of the Circuit Court in the county where the business is located. First-time license applicants must register with the Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation and, if making sales, open a sales tax account before contacting the local Clerk of the Court. |
