The City of Pickens is committed to helping our local businesses as well as those outside contractors and entrepreneurs who come to our city to do business. City Council recently reduced business license rates to bring relief to businesses struggling in this economic downturn.

The business license fee is an excise tax levied on the privilege of doing business, and the value of the privilege extended is measured by the business’s gross receipts.

Historically, our business owners have enjoyed low rates without a rate increase for ten years, keeping our rates significantly lower than in neighboring cities for a very long time.

For those on record at city hall, a renewal application will be mailed soon, simplifying the renewal process. A review of each business’s classification is underway to assure confidence in an accurate and fair business license tax.

All businesses are required to get a license.

If you own one or more residential and/or commercial rental properties located within city limits, you must have a business license.

The complete ordinance and an application are online at www.cityofpickens.com. You are not exempt from a license tax simply because you do not receive a notice or application in the mail.

Business licenses for the year May 1, 2010 – April 30, 2011 should be paid for by May 1, 2010. One month’s grace period is given before penalties are imposed June 1, 2010. Call City Hall (878-6421) for rates and fee calculation assistance. Pickens City Hall is located at the corner of Pendleton Street and Johnson Street, at 219 Pendleton Street.

Katherine Brackett

Administrator

City of Pickens