Business License

Please use Internet Explorer to access our online business license application for new applications and renewals. Google Chrome does not interface properly with this application. We apologize for the inconvenience.


Who Needs a Business License?

All businesses within the incorporated city limits of Fayetteville must obtain a Business License unless the business qualifies for an exemption. Please refer to Do I Qualify for more information.

To determine if your business or home-based business address is within the city limits please visit our GIS map. [Once the map has loaded, at the top, click the second icon from the left to enter your address.] 

New Business

A business can submit an application and pay online for a discounted rate. You may also apply and submit payment by mail, or in person. To begin the application process, please refer to the New Business Online Application.

Starting a Business in Fayetteville
For an in-depth look into all that is required to start a business, please visit our Starting A Business In Fayetteville Online Handbook.

Existing Business Without a License

An existing business that has not yet applied for a business license must do so within 60 days of the business opening to avoid additional fees. Please refer to the New Business Online Application.
 If your business has been in operation for more than 60 days and does not have a business license please contact the Business License Clerk at 479-575-8352 before beginning the application process. 

Existing Business With a License

The Business Licenses renewal period is September 1 through October 31 each year. The renewal fee is $15. The City emails and mails reminders each year in late August. Please contact the Business License Clerk at 479-575-8352 if you have any questions. You can renew online at this link.

Fees


 Please refer to the Business License Fees for complete fee and late fee information.

What To Expect


Once you apply and pay for your business license, it will go through a review process.
The type of review(s) will depend on the type of business you operate.

Types of Business and Reviews



 Hotel, Motel, Restaurant, Bar, & Rental Car Business:
    • Accounting Review
    • Fire Review
    • Zoning Review
Other Commercial Business:
    • Fire Review
    • Zoning Review
Home-Based Business:
    • Zoning Review

Email Contacts for Reviews:
 Accounting Review - dsmallwood@fayetteville-ar.gov; 479-575-8281
Fire Marshal Review - firemarshal@fayetteville-ar.gov; 479-444-3448
Planning Zoning Review:  Contact the Business License Clerk at 479-575-8352 to find out which planner is assigned to your review.

Fayetteville Fire Department Inspection


The Fire Marshal's office has created a list of the most common fire and life safety violations (pdf) discovered during inspections. Please review this document and take corrective measures prior to applying for the Business License.

Once you have applied for the Business License, the Fire Marshal will contact you to conduct a building inspection if one is needed. All fire and life safety violations must be corrected.

If you have any further questions about your Fire Review you may contact the Fire Marshal by calling
479-444-3448 or by emailing firemarshal@fayetteville-ar.gov.

Special Licenses

Outdoor Mobile and Sidewalk Vendors

If you are an outdoor mobile vendor or a sidewalk vendor, you will not fill out the form for a Business License. Instead, please use these forms to apply:
Outdoor Mobile Vendor
Sidewalk Vendor

Solicitation Permit

For a Solicitation Permit, please apply for the Business License and print off the Solicitation Permit Application and turn it in with all documents required by the checklist on the application.
Solicitation Permit