Handyman Business Permit Requirements in Columbia, SC

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

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 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 Contractor's Licensing Board — General Contractor License

    General contractors doing work over $5,000 in South Carolina must be licensed by the SC Contractor's Licensing Board. Requires passing a trade and business/law exam.

    Official government source

    $200–$400 (initial)4–8 weeks

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 Building Permit (for regulated work)

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

    $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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