City of Dallas Occupational Tax Certificate

What is an Occupational Tax Certificate?

An occupational tax certificate (also known as a business license) is a certificate issued by government agencies. The certificate is evidence that an individual or company has paid an occupation tax as required by the local ordinance. Any person engaged in any business, trade, profession, or occupation and is located in the city limits of Dallas, is required to register their business with the city and obtain an occupational tax certificate. 

How do I open my business in Dallas, GA?

1. Complete and submit your application online using the Customer Self Service Portal.
   1. Use the New Business Submission Guide to use the online portal 
2. Pay the $25 new business submission invoice, which will be sent via email from a noreply address.
3. Schedule new business inspections with the Paulding County Fire Marshal and City of Dallas Building Inspector. 
   1. Paulding County Fire Marshal - fireinspections@paulding.gov 
   2. City of Dallas Building Inspector - melgaydi@dallas-ga.gov 
4. Receive approval from the City Departments (this is completed internally). If anyone should have questions, they will reach out to you.)
5. Pay for the Occupational Tax Certificate Invoice which will be sent via email once your business has been approved. 

What forms are required for the application? (printable forms can be found below)

• City of Dallas Financial Affidavit
• City of Dallas Affidavit Verifying Status for Public Benefit
• City of Dallas Private Employer Affidavit
• City of Dallas Home Occupation Form (home-based businesses only)
• Applicant's Secure and Verifiable Document (driver's license, passport, etc.)
• Proof of Ownership of property/Signed Lease
• Letter from property owner/leasing management allowing the business to be conducted at this location (if renting/leasing a residential location)
• Business Registration Certificate with Georgia Secretary of State (if LLC or Corporation)
• Certificate of Trade Name from Paulding County Clerk of Superior Court (if using a DBA/Trade Name)
• Any Licenses affiliated with the occupation/business (food service permit, contractor license, salons, used car dealers, etc.)
• Immigration Documentation (if applicant is other than a US Citizen)

How do I pay my Occupational Tax?

• Use the Business Class Table and the Tax Rate Table to determine what your license will cost. 
• After your application is approved, you will receive an invoice via email with a secure payable link. You can also access your invoice in your account on the Customer Self Service Portal.