Photography Business Permit Requirements in Meridian, ID

1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

   Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC or corporation. Free from the IRS.

   Official government source

   Free·Immediate (online application)

   Free

   Immediate (online application)

1. Idaho State Tax Commission — Sales Tax Permit

   Required for all businesses selling taxable goods or services in Idaho. Idaho charges a 6% state sales tax. Some cities have local option taxes. Register with the Idaho State Tax Commission online.

   Official government source

   Free·Immediate (online via TAP)

   Free

   Immediate (online via TAP)

1. City of Meridian — No General Business License

   Meridian does not require a general business license, and there is no annual renewal or display requirement. A new business moving into a commercial space typically needs a Certificate of Zoning Compliance and a Certificate of Occupancy from Community Development before opening. Only specific activities need a license or permit from the City Clerk's Office: alcohol licenses and catering permits, mobile sales units, temporary use permits, vehicle immobilization, fireworks, pawnbroker and precious metal dealer licenses, and dog licensing. Most businesses need none of these.

   Official government source

   $0 for most businesses — no general license exists; specific activity licenses have their own fees·N/A — no general business license to apply for

   $0 for most businesses — no general license exists; specific activity licenses have their own fees

   N/A — no general business license to apply for

2. City of Meridian Temporary Use Permit (public property or event use)

   Meridian has no photography permit. Casual photo sessions in a city park need nothing. A commercial shoot that reserves or occupies public space, brings crew and equipment, or is run as an event goes through the City Clerk's Temporary Use Permit (Special Event) process — Ada County is not involved for locations inside city limits. The permit requires an event description, a site or route plan, and proof of general liability insurance naming the City of Meridian as additional insured.

   Official government source

   $50 if not in a park, $85 if in a park, $150 for a large-scale event. Other temporary use categories (outdoor market, promotional or temporary sales unit) run $50–$85.·Apply at least 30 days ahead for a standard event; 60 or more days for large-scale events or anything needing road closures.

   $50 if not in a park, $85 if in a park, $150 for a large-scale event. Other temporary use categories (outdoor market, promotional or temporary sales unit) run $50–$85.

   Apply at least 30 days ahead for a standard event; 60 or more days for large-scale events or anything needing road closures.

Official Sources

• City of Meridian Development Services
• Idaho State Tax Commission — Sales Tax Permit

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