Business & Special Licenses

Obtaining a License

The City of Fife partners with the Washington Department of Revenue to issue business licenses. City licenses are added to your state master license as an addendum (PDF) and may be obtained either online or via the mail.

There are three ways to file the Business License Application (PDF) and supplemental forms:

  • File online using an E-check or a MasterCard, Visa, Discover or American Express credit or debit card (gift cards cannot be used).
    Note: The credit/debit card option is provided to you by a private, non-state vendor that will impose a 2.5% convenience fee for the service. You can contact Business Licensing Service at 360-705-6741. Filing online is the fastest method to apply because your application does not require mail delivery or the information to be input manually, which can save you a week or two in the registration process.
  • Mobile devices (tablets, smart phones, etc.) are not recommended.
  • Complete the Business License Application and mail with the appropriate fee (check or money order made out to the Department of Revenue) to:
    Business Licensing Service
    Department of Revenue
    P.O. Box 9034
    Olympia, WA 98507-9034
  • File in-person at a Department of Revenue office (locations include Kent, Tacoma, and Tumwater).

You will receive your business license about four to six weeks after submitting your application.

Amusement Centers

Five or more mechanical or electronic amusement devices in an establishment that does not sell alcoholic beverages, is required to obtain a license for each of the devices. (Example: five devices would pay a $250 fee.) The establishment cannot be located within 2,000 feet of schools, churches and residential zones. Please refer to title 5 of the FMC for additional requirements.

Business outside the City Limits

Businesses located outside the City limits that engage in business within the City limits shall apply and pay for a license per the License Fee Schedule.

Criminal Penalties

Any person violating or failing to comply with any of the provisions of the Business License Code shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and shall be punishable by jail or by a fine of up to $500. Each day of noncompliance with any of the provisions shall constitute a separate offense.

Transference & Purpose- License for Each Physical Location

Business License may not be transferred or assigned. Business License may not be used for a purpose different from that for which it was issued. A separate business license must be obtained for each business name and location.

Marijuana

The issuance of a business license for any purpose does not authorize the sale of marijuana, products that contain marijuana, or any of the active ingredients of marijuana.