DeKalb County planning and licensing staff told a business-summit audience that local business licensing is the gateway to county contracting and to many county programs.

Staff stressed that state registration with the Georgia Secretary of State is only the first step. A county business license is required for businesses operating inside unincorporated DeKalb County, including home-based businesses; home occupations with in-person customers may also require a special land use permit. The county uses tax filings (including zero gross receipts) to verify occupational tax status for licensing purposes, and license renewals are annual.

Presenters advised entrepreneurs to prepare before applying—draft a business plan and budget, consult free training and the SBA, gather documentation such as Schedule C and zoning compliance, and, if needed, use a PO box or registered agent to limit public exposure of a home address. Staff cautioned that addresses on Secretary of State filings are publicly searchable and urged applicants to consider address privacy when appropriate.

On contracting readiness, staff said SAM.gov registration and accurate NIGP commodity codes boost a supplier’s visibility to county buyers and grant-funded opportunities. Watershed, procurement, and licensing staff also explained that for federally funded projects some registrations (e.g., SAM) will be required and that suppliers should enter accurate NAICS/NIGP codes into their procurement profile to be found for non-solicitation purchases.

Staff urged attendees to use the county one-stop shop at 178 Sam Street for in-person assistance and to contact licensing staff for help submitting complete applications to avoid delays.