St. Louis Business License Renewal:
2026 Guide
Requirements change frequently. Always verify current requirements, fees, and deadlines directly with the issuing authority. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or compliance advice.
St. Louis is an independent city (not part of any county) and requires businesses to hold a City of St. Louis Business License and pay a 1% Earnings Tax on income earned within city limits. The city's Department of Excise administers liquor licenses, and the Division of Health oversees food establishment permits.
Local Business License Requirements
St. Louis requires a Business License from the Collector of Revenue for all businesses operating within the city. Because St. Louis is an independent city not part of any county, there is no county layer — all local permits are at the city level. The 1% Earnings Tax applies to all compensation and net profit earned within city limits, with returns due April 15 annually.
State-Level Permits Required
Missouri sales tax permit required for taxable sales. Missouri Secretary of State registration required for LLCs and corporations. Businesses operating in both St. Louis City and St. Louis County must maintain separate registrations — the city and county are distinct jurisdictions. Missouri ATC licenses required for alcohol sales.
Industry-Specific Licenses
Food establishments require a St. Louis Division of Health food service license, $100–$500/year. Alcohol sales require both a Missouri ATC license and a St. Louis Excise Division liquor license. Contractors need Missouri contractor licensure. Healthcare facilities need Missouri DHSS certification. Businesses in the St. Louis City Economic Development Zone may qualify for tax incentives through the St. Louis Development Corporation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is St. Louis City different from St. Louis County for licensing purposes?
Yes — this is a common point of confusion. The City of St. Louis is an independent municipality not part of St. Louis County. Businesses in St. Louis City license with the city, while businesses in municipalities within St. Louis County (like Clayton or Chesterfield) license with those jurisdictions.
What is the St. Louis Earnings Tax?
St. Louis imposes a 1% Earnings Tax on compensation earned within the city. Employers must withhold and remit city earnings tax. Self-employed businesses and pass-through entities file an Earnings Tax return annually. The St. Louis Collector of Revenue processes all earnings tax filings.
Do I need a liquor license from the city and the state in St. Louis?
Yes. Alcohol sellers in St. Louis need both a Missouri Division of Alcohol and Tobacco Control (ATC) state license and a City of St. Louis Excise Division liquor license. Both are required and have separate fees and renewal processes.
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