Business License Information

The City of John Day charges a small fee (the basic fee of $30), with an additional charge per employee or per rental space (less credits) to operate a business within the city.

This cost offsets staff time invested in working with businesses on relevant topics (like troubleshooting compliance issues with relevant laws and statutes), helps to combat fraudulent activities, and allows the City to track the economic health of the community by recording changes in the number of active businesses and their employees.  

Businesses are required to renew their license yearly.

Basic Information

Download the form below to learn more about fees and requirements

1. The basic fee for any license as required by Ordinance 09-135-01 is $30.00. Each activity within a building or separate activity within a business requires a separate license.
2. The additional outside business charge shall be $12.50, and shall be payable by any business which is physically located outside of the City of John Day, and who solicits business or orders for merchandise within the city limits.
3. Transfer Fee: When a change of ownership occurs on an existing license, the new owner shall be charged a $5.00 transfer fee.