How to Obtain a Business License : Doing Business in the City of Aiken

We recognize that business owners have time, effort, money, and dreams invested in their business. That’s why we try to make the application process for a City license as simple and as quick as possible. The main issues under review by the City include whether or not the location selected is appropriate under the Zoning Ordinance, and whether the building and signs are safe and appropriate within these zones. Residential zones tend to include few businesses, so the business and industrial zones were developed to target certain types of businesses that are compatible within those zones.

Business license applications may be obtained at the City of Aiken Finance Department. Business license renewals for existing businesses are generally processed in our Finance Department. All NEW business license applications requiring a new business location, construction, or major renovation of a business must first be approved by the Planning Department.

All business locations must meet all applicable:

• Building Codes
• Zoning Ordinance requirements
• Fire & Life Safety Codes
• Sign Ordinance requirements