Business Licenses and Permits

The Planning Commission of Athens, Tennessee, has met to discuss changes to the business license fees of mobile vendors.

It has been suggested that the classification of a mobile vendor be redefined, making an exception for businesses that open up for festivals and other one-off events.

Under the current ordinance, a business must operate in a permanent building that complies with zoning regulations. The rules do not allow for portable buildings or tents, the News Courier reported.

Speaking to the news provider, chairman of the Planning Commission, Rod Huffman, said that temporary vendors who set up on the side of the road selling food or merchandise can go against health department permits involving food and sanitation, as well as parking and zoning problems.

He added: “There’s also a problem with them setting up next to permanent businesses, which have paid business licenses and taxes.

“We don’t see how there’s a tax structure in how they’re paying taxes.”

Tags: business licenses, business permits, licenses, permits