Business License Information

Any person(s) doing business, for profit, inside the city limits of Hillsboro is required by City ordinance to have a City of Hillsboro business license. This includes commercial, home and out-of-city locations. Applications must be submitted on an original form obtained either in person at our offices located at 150 E Main Street in Hillsboro, by mail, or by calling 503.681.6408 or 503.681.6438. Not-for-profit businesses must still contact the City and apply for an exemption certificate.

All new business license applications must be submitted with $105 dollars, plus all applicable employee fees. The $105 dollar base fee consists of a one time $80 dollar application fee and a $25 dollar licensing fee. The $25 dollar licensing fee includes the first two owners and/or employees. The business is then assessed $5 for each additional owner and/or employee working within the City of Hillsboro’s jurisdiction. The maximum cumulative fee any business is assessed, is $830, including the initial application fee and $750 for annual license and employee renewal fees.

Licenses are renewed annually for the base fee and any applicable employee fees.

The licensing fees for apartment buildings and rentals totaling 4 or more units include the application fee of $80, $25 base fee and $5 for each individual living unit excluding the first three units. This fee schedule also has a maximum limit of $750 and these licenses are also renewed annually.

For more information on Business Licenses or to obtain a Business License Application, please call 503.681.6408 or 503.681.6438. For information on the internet contact please email us.

Business License Fee Schedule

Apartment Buildings

Frequently Asked Questions

• Q. How long does it take to process a business license application?
• A. the typical time span is between 2-5 business days. If applicant comes into Business License office to pay all fees owed, a license can be printed immediately.
• Q. When will I receive my business license certificate?
• A. Business license certificates will be printed and mailed within one week of processing the license and employee fees or at time of receipt.
• Q. When can I begin conducting business?
• A. You may begin conducting business when you receive your business license number.
• Q. What if my business moves to another address within the City limits of Hillsboro?
• A. Each address within the City limits is required to have a business license. If your business moves to another location within the City limits, you will need to submit a relocation application. If your business has multiple locations, you are required to have a business license for each location.
• Q. What if my business moves to another address outside of the City limits?
• A. If you are still conducting business within the City limits, you are still required to keep your current business license active and send notification of your new address.
• Q. When can I expect my renewal application?
• A. Business license renewal applications are mailed on the 15th of each month prior to the expiration date listed on the business license.
• Q: Do I need a license to operate a business from my home?
• A: Yes. You'll need to apply for a Home Occupation Permit through the Planning Department along with a City of Hillsboro Business License. Note: there is no additional fee for Home Occupation Applications.
• Q. Can I download an application for a business license from the City of Hillsboro web site?
• A. We have recently provided this option. Under Business licenses see Business License Application. This application is not interactive and still requires the original signature of the applicant.