Frequently Asked Questions
Business Licenses
A business license is an official permit issued by government agencies that allows individuals or companies to conduct lawful business within the government’s geographical jurisdiction. Even though it is measured by gross income, a business license is not a sales, property, or income tax.
South Carolina Code, Section 5.7.30 authorizes municipalities to levy a business license tax based on a business’ gross income.
Any business physically located within the Town of Meggett (resident business) is required to have a business license. Additionally, any business that is located outside of the Town of Meggett (nonresident business) but comes into the Town to do business is also required to have a business license.
Resident businesses are businesses that are physically located inside the Town of Meggett and their business license fee is based on 100% of the gross income generated at their location. Nonresident businesses are businesses that are located outside the Town of Meggett but come into the Town to do business. Their business license fees are based on gross income generated within the Town, but at double the rate of a resident business.
The Town's Zoning & Land Development Regulations Ordinance (ZLDR) permits certain types of businesses in specific zoning districts within the Municipality. Town Hall can assist you in determining whether a specific location is appropriately zoned for your business. Please call (843)889-3622 if you have any questions.
You need to make sure you have all proper state licenses (contractor, specialty, ABC, retail licenses, etc.) prior to applying for a Town of Meggett business license. Contractors wishing to operate within the Town of Meggett will be required to provide a copy of their South Carolina State Contractor's or Home Builder's license before obtaining a Town business license. Providing a copy of the state license with the business license application will also help to avoid any delays with the permitting process. All resident businesses must also apply for either a Home Occupancy Approval or Certificate of Occupancy at the time they apply for a business license.
The business license fee is calculated based on gross income and the type of business. Our staff will be glad to assist you in determining your specific classification and resulting fee.
No. By state law, business licenses are based on a business’ gross revenue. A business’ first business license tax fee will be based on a reasonable estimate of gross income from the start of operation to December 31 of that calendar year. After the first year estimate, you will renew in April from the actual gross revenue generated in the prior calendar year (January-December).
In cases where an individual refuses to purchase a license, a uniform summons to appear in Municipal Court is issued and the case is heard before a municipal judge. Failure to purchase a business license is subject to a fine of up to $500. Each day of violation shall be considered a separate offense. The court fine is in addition to all business license tax fees and penalties.
Business license renewals postmarked May 1 or later by the U.S. Postal Service will be assessed a 10% penalty. This penalty will increase 10% each month up to a 50% maximum penalty. Per Town ordinance, and in compliance with the equal protection clauses of the South Carolina and United States constitutions, business license officials are not permitted to waive penalties under any circumstance.