Why do business licenses matter for our community?
Getting and maintaining a valid business license isn’t just a legal requirement — it’s an important part of supporting a healthy, thriving community.
When businesses are licensed, it ensures that they meet local safety, zoning, and operational standards that help keep our community safe and organized. Licensed businesses also contribute to essential city services like right-of-way maintenance, public safety, and our cherished community events.
By keeping your business license current, you show your commitment to doing business responsibly and investing in the place we all call home. Together, we can help our local economy grow and maintain the quality of life that makes our little town great!
Business License Applications can be submitted for approval in person at the Carlton Civic Center or online via email. An application fee must be paid by all applicants, including non-profits. If the business is a non-profit, proof must be provided from the State of Oregon of official non-profit status. Business Licenses will be issued within ten days after approval.
Business Licenses expire on December 31st every year, and must be renewed yearly. To renew, submit a Business License renewal application and the required renewal fee by December 31st of each year.
To conduct temporary or transient business within the city limits of Carlton such as selling goods/merchandise or door to door sales, you must first obtain a Temporary Merchant Business License and pay the application fee. Door to door sales are not valid past 5:00 pm each day.
Temporary Merchant Business License shall not exceed six months and must include all dates the applicant intends to conduct business (Example: Every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday From February 3rd to 28th, 2025 8 AM - 4 PM).
Conducting a business from home requires a Home Occupation Application. This helps to ensure that the proposed business will not create undue hardship or disruption for surrounding occupants while still allowing the applicant to work from home.
To start this process, you will complete the Home Occupation Permit, submit it to the Civic Center with all required documents and the fee and wait for a final review from the Planning Department. If the home occupation permit is approved, then the applicant can submit a business license application.