Skip to main content
Starting October 1: Some business services are now subject to retail sales tax, as required by state law, ESSB 5814. When you buy these services, vendors should add sales tax to your bill. If you sell these services, you should begin collecting retail sales tax. Learn more about Services newly subject to retail sales tax.
Puyallup city endorsement
Requirements and fees
General business license
Variable
The city of Puyallup requires a license for all businesses located within city limits, or conducting business within city limits. If you are not sure if you will do business within the city limits, contact the city directly before you apply.
License fee is determined by the gross annual income and number of employees who work within the city limits of Puyallup.
Method for calculating employees
Add up all employees (part-time and full-time) and that equals the number of employees. This includes self-employed persons, sole proprietors, owners, managers, and partners.
Origination fee:
| Reported gross annual income | License fee |
|---|---|
| $0 through $12,000 | $0 |
| Above $12,000 | 1 through 24 employees - $75 25 through 99 employees - $300 100 or more employees - $500 |
Renewal fee:
| Reported gross annual income | License fee |
|---|---|
| $0 through $12,000 | $0 |
| Above $12,000 | 1 through 24 employees - $75 25 through 99 employees - $300 100 or more employees - $500 |
Nonprofit businesses
$0
If you are a nonprofit business, you may be exempt from city fees. To qualify you must submit a copy of your business’ IRS 501(c)3 certificate with your application.
Origination fee: $0
Renewal fee: $0
Home businesses
Variable
A business owner who intends to conduct business from a residence within the city must comply with Puyallup Municipal Code 20.75. If you are applying for a Home Occupation license, upon review, an additional Puyallup questionnaire may be required. For more information on home occupation requirements, please contact the planning division directly at Planning@ci.puyallup.wa.us.
License fee is determined by the gross annual income and number of employees who work within the city limits of Puyallup.
Method for calculating employees
Add up all employees (part-time and full-time) and that equals the number of employees. This includes self-employed persons, sole proprietors, owners, managers, and partners.
Origination fee:
| Reported gross annual income | License fee |
|---|---|
| $0 through $12,000 | $0 |
| Above $12,000 |
1 through 24 employees - $75 25 through 99 employees - $300 100 or more employees - $500 |
Renewal fee:
| Reported gross annual income | License fee |
|---|---|
| $0 through $12,000 | $0 |
| Above $12,000 |
1 through 24 employees - $75 25 through 99 employees - $300 100 or more employees - $500 |
Non-resident businesses
Variable
If your business is operating within city limits, your license fee is determined by the gross annual income you earn within this city’s limits and number of employees.
Method for calculating employees
Add up all employees (part-time and full-time) and that equals the number of employees. This includes self-employed persons, sole proprietors, owners, managers, and partners.
Origination fee:
| Reported gross annual income | License fee |
|---|---|
| $0 through $12,000 | $0 |
| Above $12,000 |
1 through 24 employees - $75 25 through 99 employees - $300 100 or more employees - $500 |
Renewal fee:
| Reported gross annual income | License fee |
|---|---|
| $0 through $12,000 | $0 |
| Above $12,000 |
1 through 24 employees - $75 25 through 99 employees - $300 100 or more employees - $500 |
Businesses exempt from city licensing
Your business may be exempt from getting a city business license. For more information, please contact the city directly.
Average approval time
Average approval time from date a completed application is received: 7-10 business days.
