Business & Alcohol License
The Business & Alcohol License Office issues business occupational tax certificates and reviews alcohol license applications for commercial and home-based businesses operating in DeKalb County. Our staff provides guidance throughout the application and renewal process.
Announcements
- Short-Term Rental (STR) registration is now live for properties located within unincorporated DeKalb County. Property owners and operators must register their short-term rental properties in accordance with the adopted DeKalb County Short-Term Rental Ordinance.
To apply, review requirements, and access additional information, please visit: https://engagedekalb.dekalbcountyga.gov/short-term-rental - The 2026 DeKalb County Alcohol License Period will begin October 1st and end December 31st.
- The 2026 DeKalb County Business License Renewal Period will begin January 1st, 2026, and end April 15th.
- Penalty Due Date:
- If received after February 1, 2026 - $100- Waived this 2026 year
- If received after March 1, 2026 - $300
- If received after April 1, 2026 - $600
- Letter of Entertainment form for Late Night Establishments needs to be submitted to LOE email: DeKalbLOE@dekalbcountyga.gov
- Excise tax reports are due monthly by the 20th. Submitted to Excise email: ExciseTax@dekalbcountyga.gov
- New Commercial applications need a Certificate of Occupancy before submitting an application for a Business License.
- Homebased applications may undergo zoning review.
Start or Renew A License
Temporary Licenses
Temporary licenses for qualifying events and activities.
Announcements
License Categories
Licensing services include:
- New Applications
- Renewal Applications
- Temporary Licenses
- Excise Tax Reporting
Required Forms & Documents
Temporary Licensing
Excise Tax Reporting
- Hotel Motel Excise Tax
- Vehicle Rental Excise Tax
- By-the-Drink Excise Tax
- Energy Tax
- Wholesale Distributor Excise Tax
- PT-440 Bank and Franchise Form
Other Forms
Online Services & Other Resources
Key Dates
- License Renewal Period: January 1 - April 15
- Alcohol License Period: October 1 – December 31
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Do I need a business license?
A. All businesses operating within DeKalb County must hold a valid business license.
Q. Do home-based businesses require a license?
A. Yes. Home-based businesses must apply for a license and comply with zoning standards.
Q. Can I renew online?
A. Yes. Most renewals can be completed through the online licensing portal.
Contact & Hours
Location: 178 Sams Street, Decatur, GA
Email: blicense@dekalbcountyga.gov
Phone: 404-371-2155 (option 5)
One-Stop Hours: 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM