Landscaping Business Permit Requirements in Charleston, SC

Complete permit and license guide for starting a landscaping business in Charleston, Charleston County, South Carolina.

Updated 2026-03-14 5 stops $200–$700 est. 2–6 weeks to obtain all licenses
Get my personalized route — $14.99

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 South Carolina

2 stops

  1. South Carolina Department of Revenue — Retail License

    Required for all businesses selling tangible personal property at retail in South Carolina. South Carolina charges a 6% state sales tax; local jurisdictions may add up to 3% more. A $50 one-time license fee applies.

    Official government source

    $50 one-timeImmediate (online via MyDORWAY)

  2. South Carolina Pesticide Applicator License

    If you apply pesticides or herbicides as part of landscaping services in South Carolina, you must hold a Commercial Pesticide Applicator License from the state department of agriculture.

    $50–$200 (exam and license)2–4 weeks

City of Charleston / Charleston County

2 stops

  1. City of Charleston Revenue Collections Division — Business License

    Charleston requires an annual Business License for any business operating within city limits, with fees based on gross revenues. 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. Charleston County / Charleston Contractor Registration

    Landscaping contractors may need to register with Charleston County or the City of Charleston. Some jurisdictions require a separate contractor's registration for landscaping and irrigation work.

    Official government source

    $50–$2001–3 weeks

Terminus

Open for business — est. $200–$700 · 2–6 weeks to obtain all licenses

Want this mapped to your exact business and structure, in filing order?

Get my personalized route — $14.99

Official Sources

Related Guides