Start a Business in Chattanooga

Permits, costs, timeline, and step-by-step requirements.

✔ 4 permits⏱ 2-6 weeks💰 $15 Minimal / varies Standard

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Overview

Starting a business in Chattanooga requires a Business Tax License through the Hamilton County Clerk. Base fee: $15 Minimal / varies Standard. GCC revises fees regularly. Known for significant fee increases.

Required Permits

✓Federal: EIN from IRS (free, instant online)

✓State: LLC/Corp filing + seller's permit/sales tax registration

✓County: health department permit + fire inspection

✓City: business licence/tax certificate

Step-by-Step Process

Federal: EIN from IRS (free, instant online)

State: LLC/Corp filing + seller's permit/sales tax registration

County: health department permit + fire inspection

City: business licence/tax certificate

Costs

Estimated total: $15 Minimal / varies Standard depending on permits and inspections.

Contact

Hamilton County Clerk

Phone: 423-643-7300

Apply Online →

Common Mistakes

⚠ Same TN two-tier system: Minimal Activity vs Standard

⚠ Hamilton County separate from city

⚠ No state income tax

⚠ Downtown Innovation District has special programs

⚠ Tennessee has no state income tax on wages but requires business tax registration at the state level

Choose Your Business Type

Restaurant Food Truck Barber Shop Retail Store Coffee Shop Bar / Nightclub Gym / Fitness Studio Nail Salon Cannabis Dispensary Dog Grooming Bakery Cleaning Service Daycare Center Auto Repair Shop

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