To operate a business in Morgan County, Alabama, you need two licenses: a state Business Privilege License (obtained from the Morgan County Revenue Commissioner) and a local Morgan County license. If your business is located within Decatur city limits, you will also need a City of Decatur business license. Licenses must be renewed annually by October 1.
Business license requirements in Morgan County
Alabama requires every business operating in the state to hold a Business Privilege License. This license is administered at the county level — even though it is a state requirement. In Morgan County, you obtain the license from the Morgan County Revenue Commissioner's office.
In addition to the state privilege license, businesses within city limits need a separate municipal business license from the city where they operate. Businesses outside city limits only need the county license.
| Office | Morgan County Revenue Commissioner |
| Address | 302 Lee St NE, Decatur, AL 35601 |
| Phone | (256) 351-4690 |
| Hours | Mon–Fri 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM |
| License fee | Fees vary by business classification; contact the Revenue Commissioner for current rates. |
| Renewal deadline | October 1 |
How to get a business license in Morgan County
- Determine your business classification — license fees are based on business type and gross receipts. Common categories include retail, wholesale, service, and professional.
- Gather required documents — bring your business name, physical address, federal EIN, description of business activities, and estimated gross receipts.
- Visit or contact the Revenue Commissioner's office — apply in person at the address listed above, or check whether online applications are available at the county's website.
- Pay the license fee — fees are based on your business type and gross receipts. Fees vary by business classification; contact the Revenue Commissioner for current rates.
- Display your license — Alabama law requires you to display your business privilege license at your place of business.
Morgan County serves the Decatur area in North Alabama, including Hartselle and surrounding communities. Decatur is a significant manufacturing and distribution center, and Morgan County businesses in those sectors should confirm any special licensing requirements.
Do I also need a city business license?
If your business operates within Decatur city limits, yes — you need both the county license and a City of Decatur business license. The city license is obtained separately from the city's revenue or business license department. Businesses outside city limits only need the county license.
Do I need an LLC to get a business license?
No — sole proprietors, partnerships, LLCs, and corporations all need a business license. However, if you're operating as a sole proprietor and haven't formed an LLC yet, consider doing so. An Alabama LLC provides personal liability protection that a sole proprietorship doesn't, and the $200 filing cost is often worth it.