Business Licenses

Who needs a City of Lake Oswego business license?
Unless specifically exempted by State law, Lake Oswego City Code requires anyone who conducts business within the City of Lake Oswego to have a business license.

Does that include working out of a home?
Yes. Once the proposed business (home occupation) complies with City zoning codes, it would need a business license.

Where does a person go to apply for a business license?
An applicant may either come to the Finance Department on the first floor of City Hall and pick up an application, or call (503) 635-0279 to request that an application be mailed. You may also download a business license application.

How much will it cost?
Current fees for the initial business license application are:

These fees are non-refundable. Business licenses issued between January and May 15 are valid until the end of the calendar year, while licenses issued between July and November 15 are valid until the end of June of the following year. Business Licenses must be renewed by the indicated expiration date on the license. A renewal form indicating the renewal fee will be mailed to current business license holders.

What happens after the fees are paid and the application is submitted?
Once submitted, the application is routed to various departments for review and approval. Most applications only require Planning and Building Department reviews. However, if issues such as health and safety are involved, the Engineering, Fire, and Police Departments may also review the application.

How long will it take to complete the review process?
While the Ordinance for Business Licensing requires that those applying for a business license "do so thirty (30) days prior to the date the license is requested to be effective," the review process is normally completed within 10 working days and the license is then issued.

What does the City do with the revenue collected for business licenses?
Seventy-five percent of the revenue collected from business license fees go into the General Fund. The General Fund supports Fire, Police, Parks, Maintenance, and Library operations. The remaining 25 percent goes into a dedicated fund to pay for the administration of the program itself.

Additional Information:
In addition to maintaining a current listing of licensed businesses and building contractors at the permit center counter, the City also provides the Chamber of Commerce with a copy of all licensed businesses, and frequently helps locate local businesses for callers.

Other Resources: