Start a Business in Savannah

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

✔ 4 permits⏱ 2-6 weeks💰 $50–$500

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Overview

Starting a business in Savannah requires a Business Tax Certificate through the Revenue Department. Base fee: $50–$500. Tourism-heavy economy. Beach shack and food stall licensing is seasonal.

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: $50–$500 depending on permits and inspections.

Contact

Revenue Department

Phone: 912-651-6430

Apply Online →

Common Mistakes

⚠ Historic district has strict preservation overlay — extensive design review

⚠ SCAD (art college) presence influences business mix

⚠ Tourism/hospitality heavy — seasonal businesses

⚠ Chatham County Health for food permits

⚠ Georgia requires an Occupation Tax Certificate (business license) at the city or county 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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