Business License

Durham business licenses must be purchased annually and are valid from July 1 to June 30 of the following year.

To obtain a new business license or a renewal, select “General Business License Application” from the documents below and return it to the City of Durham along with payment. Please note, there is a separate “Business License Application for Apartments”.

Before a new business can operate in Durham, the City will conduct a zoning review to determine if it complies with the zoning code requirements. Call the City to request a zoning review before locating in the City.

Retail businesses are not allowed in Durham.

Note: As of May 26, 2026, Business License Fees have changed. Please refer to the current Master Fee List

Documents