Handyman Business Permit Requirements in Baltimore, MD

Complete permit and license guide for starting a handyman business in Baltimore, Baltimore City County, Maryland.

Updated 2026-03-14 5 stops $200–$800 est. 2–6 weeks to obtain all 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. Maryland charges a 6% state sales tax. Most services are not taxable; retail product sales are taxable. Register free with the Maryland Comptroller.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online via bFile)

  2. Maryland Home Improvement Commission — Home Improvement Contractor License

    Any contractor performing home improvement work in Maryland (including repairs, renovations, and installations in residential properties) must be licensed by the Maryland Home Improvement Commission (MHIC).

    Official government source

    $250 (initial license)4–8 weeks

City of Baltimore / Baltimore City County

2 stops

  1. Baltimore City Department of Finance — Business License

    Baltimore City requires a separate Business License for all businesses operating within city limits. 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. Baltimore City County Building Permit (for regulated work)

    Certain handyman tasks — including electrical, plumbing, HVAC work, or structural modifications — require permits pulled from the Baltimore City County or City of Baltimore building department. Handymen should not perform licensed contractor work without the appropriate state license.

    Official government source

    $50–$500 per project depending on scope1–3 weeks

Terminus

Open for business — est. $200–$800 · 2–6 weeks to obtain all registrations

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Official Sources

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