Businesses operating in the City of Savannah are required to have a business
tax certificate instead of a business license.. Prior to opening a business, a
new business or profession must pay the business tax and obtain a business
tax certificate. The business tax certificate is required by Article Y, Business
Tax, of the current City of Savannah, Georgia, Revenue Ordinance.
After a Certificate of Occupancy has been issued, all new businesses are
required to complete, sign, and submit a Business Tax Return and Zoning
Notification form. The latter verifies that the applicant, or business owner,
has contacted the City of Savannah’s Zoning Department, provided
information on the type of business that is opening, and has received
confirmation that the use is permitted at the location. Even if another
business has been in that location previously, the verification must be made.
Depending on the business and State or regulatory requirements,
applicants may be required to submit a State sales tax identification number,
health permits, bonds, certificates of qualification, etc. before obtaining a
business tax certificate.
The business tax notice will be mailed in approximately 10 working days,
following a site visit to the business location by a representative from the
Revenue Department. The business tax is paid at the time you submit the
completed paper work. Businesses can submit their completed paper work
either in person or by mail.
