Cleaning Service Permit Requirements in Columbia, SC

Complete permit and license guide for starting a cleaning service in Columbia, Richland County, South Carolina.

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 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 Workers' Compensation Insurance

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

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

City of Columbia / Richland County

2 stops

  1. City of Columbia Business License Division — Business License

    The City of Columbia requires an annual Business License for all businesses with a location within city limits. The fee is 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. Richland County / Columbia 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 Richland 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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