Business License / Occupational Tax

The Occupational Tax Department collects various revenues form business and industry to raise revenue for Douglas County.  An Occupational Tax is levied on all businesses operating in unincorporated Douglas County, including commercial and home-based businesses.  The Department ensures compliance with all applicable codes and regulations related to tax collection from the operation of a business in Douglas County. 

Starting a Business In Douglas County

 Each person engaged in any business, trade, profession or occupation in Douglas County shall pay an occupational tax.  This applies whether with a location in the county or if an out-of-state business with no location in Georgia exerts substantial efforts at their trade, in Douglas County.

The Occupational Tax Department assists with processing occupational tax applications and issuing business licenses.   The Occupational Tax Department also manages alcohol licenses and taxes; hotel/ motel taxes (including short term rentals); and a variety of specialty licenses.  

A Business License is valid for one calendar year.   Business License renewals are initiated in October of every year.  Business owners should pay their occupational tax and obtain their renewal prior to December 31 of the calendar year.  Renewals are processed without penalty between January 1 and March 31 of the calendar year.  After April 1, a penalty for late renewal will be assessed. 

Payments of Occupational Tax are processed Monday – Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 3:45 p.m. (unless county offices are otherwise closed for holiday or special circumstances). Payment types accepted include check, money order; credit card (Visa or Master Card only); or Debit Card.  No counter checks are accepted.  All checks or money orders should be payable to Douglas County.