To operate a business in Shelby County, Alabama, you need two licenses: a state Business Privilege License (obtained from the Shelby County Revenue Commissioner) and a local Shelby County license. If your business is located within Pelham/Alabaster city limits, you will also need a City of Pelham/Alabaster business license. Licenses must be renewed annually by October 1.
Business license requirements in Shelby 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 Shelby County, you obtain the license from the Shelby 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 | Shelby County Revenue Commissioner |
| Address | 102 Depot St, Columbiana, AL 35051 |
| Phone | (205) 670-6900 |
| Hours | Mon–Fri 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| License fee | Fees vary by business classification and gross receipts. |
| Renewal deadline | October 1 |
How to get a business license in Shelby 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 and gross receipts.
- Display your license — Alabama law requires you to display your business privilege license at your place of business.
Shelby County is one of Alabama's fastest-growing counties and includes cities such as Pelham, Alabaster, Chelsea, Helena, and Calera. Each city may have its own additional business license requirement.
Do I also need a city business license?
If your business operates within Pelham/Alabaster city limits, yes — you need both the county license and a City of Pelham/Alabaster 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.