Cleaning Service Permit Requirements in Annapolis, MD

Complete permit and license guide for starting a cleaning service in Annapolis, Anne Arundel County, Maryland.

Updated 2026-03-14 5 stops $150–$500 est. 1–3 weeks to obtain all licenses and registrations
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Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. This guide was compiled from public and official sources (last updated ) and has not yet been independently source-verified — confirm each requirement before acting on it.

Federal — start here

1 stop

  1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

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

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online application)

State of Maryland

2 stops

  1. Maryland Comptroller — Sales Tax Registration

    Required for all businesses selling taxable goods or services in Maryland (6% state rate; Maryland has no local sales taxes). Retail product sales are taxable. Some services are also taxable — notably cleaning of a COMMERCIAL or industrial building (janitorial/commercial cleaning) under Md. Tax-General §11-101(m): commercial cleaning businesses must collect 6% on the service itself, while residential cleaning is not taxable. Sales of photographs (portrait/wedding) are taxable as tangible personal property. Registration with the Comptroller of Maryland is free.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online via bFile)

  2. Maryland Workers' Compensation Insurance

    Maryland requires most employers to carry workers' compensation insurance for employees. Sole proprietors with no employees are generally exempt, but confirm with state requirements.

    Official government source

    Varies (typically $500–$2,000/year depending on payroll)Immediate to 1 week

City of Annapolis / Anne Arundel County

2 stops

  1. City of Annapolis Department of Finance — Business License

    The City of Annapolis requires a Business License in addition to any state or county requirements. This license must be renewed annually and displayed at your place of business.

    Official government source

    $50–$500/year depending on business type and gross revenues1–3 weeks

  2. Anne Arundel County / Annapolis Home Occupation or DBA Registration

    If operating a cleaning service from your home, you may need a Home Occupation Permit. If using a trade name, you must file a DBA (Doing Business As) registration with Anne Arundel County Clerk.

    Official government source

    $25–$501–2 weeks

Terminus

Open for business — est. $150–$500 · 1–3 weeks to obtain all licenses and registrations

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Official Sources

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