Business Licenses and Permits

Businesses operating in Baltimore, Maryland, could face increased business license fees, some of which have not been changed since the 1920s.

Proposals set out by Baltimore county executive Kevin Kamenetz would bring in $2.1 million in revenue to the county, he claims.

According to the Baltimore Sun, the changes would be modest for some businesses. The paper states that a plumber or dry cleaner’s license would be increased from $15 to $40. A liquor license, however, could increase from the current maximum of $1,000 to $2,500.

Republican Kathy Szeliga, who represents parts of Baltimore and Harford counties, called for some licenses to be removed, such as a charge for owning pool tables.

However, Jack Milani, a pub owner and co-chairman of the state Licensed Beverage Association’s legislative committee, told the media site Patch that the changes would be “devastating,” particularly for small firms.

Mr. Kamenetz told legislators, as reported by the Patch, “We’re only doing it now because we’re looking for funding opportunities to offset cuts.”

Tags: business licenses, business permits, licenses, permits