Business Licenses and Permits

Businesses in Richmond, Virginia (VA) that operate without a license could now face legal penalties.

Last week the city adopted new ordinances making operating without a business license a Class A misdemeanor, the Richmond Register reported.

Under the new ordinances, businesses that fail to obtain a license could now be ordered to pay a $500 fine and/or serve 180 days in jail.

According to city attorney Garrett Fowles, the new ordinance will improve efficiency and reduce the number of illegal businesses operating within the city.

Business license violations were previously classed as civil offences, however officials believe this often led to time consuming legal judgements and an inability to pursue out-of-state violators.

It is hoped that the new regulations will encourage businesses to pay the two per cent occupational tax, which provides the city with vital revenue, and prevent companies from competing unfairly with licensed proprietors.

The City of Richmond aims to attract growth to the area by promoting fair and prosperous business practices within the region.

New, expanding and relocating businesses that comply with licensing ordinances can also benefit from a series of local incentives, including the Commercial Area Revitalization effort, Enterprise Zone Incentive Program, and the Tax Abatement Incentive Program.

Tags: business license, business licenses, Virginia, zoning