Business Licenses
Who needs a business license?
Almost all businesses engaging in business within Snohomish city limits are required to obtain a City of Snohomish endorsement on their Washington State business license.
- Activities that meet the definition of "engaging in business" are listed under SMC 5.02.015(C).
- Activities that are exempt from business licensing are listed under SMC 5.02.015(D).
- Organizations that are exempt from business licensing are listed under SMC 5.02.030.
How do I apply?
The City of Snohomish is a Business Licensing Service (BLS) partner with the Washington State Department of Revenue (DOR). When opening a business in Snohomish, you will apply for a Washington State business license and City of Snohomish endorsement at the same time. Learn more about opening a business by visiting DOR's website.
If you already have a Washington State business license but need to add a City of Snohomish endorsement, please follow the instructions on the Department of Revenue website.
DOR can take up to 10 business days to process a business license application. Please note that City of Snohomish staff cannot troubleshoot problems with the DOR application process. For assistance, please contact DOR directly.
What kind of business license do I need?
There are four types of business licenses in Snohomish:
- General licenses are for businesses that are based at a commercial location in Snohomish city limits, such as a retail storefront or office building.
- General non-resident licenses are for businesses that are based outside Snohomish city limits but come into the city to do business, such as contractors that are based elsewhere but are hired for projects in Snohomish. Beginning on January 1, 2026, non-resident businesses reporting $4,000 or less in gross annual income are exempt from needing to obtain a Snohomish business license.
- Home occupation licenses are for businesses that are based at a residential location in Snohomish city limits. In a home occupation business, the residence is still the primary use of the home while the business is a secondary use. This does not include businesses, such as childcare facilities or rental homes, which are permitted residential uses and are considered general businesses.
- Nonprofit licenses are also available, but religious, charitable, benevolent, fraternal, and social organizations are exempt from needing a license.
In addition to a standard business license, mobile food vendors and solicitors/canvassers require additional permitting and licensure. Visit the special business licenses page to learn more.
Can I use P.O. box or other mailbox service as my business location address?
No, when applying for a business license you must provide the physical location of your business. A P.O. box or other mailbox service is not an allowed business location. For more information on address requirements for business filing, please visit the Washington Secretary of State website.
Renewals and closures
All changes to your business license account are processed through the DOR BLS, including renewals and closures.
City of Snohomish vs. Snohomish County
Businesses located in unincorporated Snohomish County do not require a City of Snohomish business license endorsement unless they conduct business activities within Snohomish city limits.
Applications for general and home occupation business licenses are automatically reclassified as non-resident if the physical location address is outside Snohomish city limits. Please note that business license fees are non-refundable and that applicants will not receive refunds if they apply for the wrong license type.
Most businesses do not need a Snohomish County business license. For more information, visit the Snohomish County business licensing webpage.