Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: Where should I go first when starting a business in the City of Newberry?
A: We recommend visiting the South Carolina Business One Stop website at https://www.scbos.sc.gov/. This is a great resource for anyone looking to start a business.

Q: How do I get a city business license and do I need one if I have a state business licenses?
A: If your business is not exempt under State law, your business needs a City of Newberry business license in addition to any other license required by the State of SC. Application forms are available at our office located at 1330 College Street, or online via our website by clicking here. If you have any questions please feel free to contact the City at 803.321.1007

Q: Where can I find the forms I need to start my business?
A: You may find many of the forms you are seeking by clicking here.

Q: How do I get a tax identification number?
A: An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is also known as a Federal Tax Identification Number, and is used to identify a business entity. Generally, businesses need an EIN. You may apply for an EIN in various ways, and now you may apply online by clicking here. This is a free service offered by the Internal Revenue Service.

Q: What is the sales tax rate in the City of Newberry?
A: The South Carolina sales tax rate is 6% plus Newberry County Capital Projects tax rate of 1% giving us a sales tax rate of 7%. The Local Hospitality Fee rate is an additional 2% on prepared food and our Local Accommodations fee rate is an additional 3% on lodging.

Q: Who do I contact about the types of permits and licenses I need to start a business?
A: You can contact Planning and Development Services at 803.321.1019 or come by the office located at 1323 College Street.

Q: How can I find out about zoning restrictions in the City of Newberry?
A: We have a very handy zoning resource page that has most information you can reference by clicking here.

Q: Who can help me with a business plan?
A: The City of Newberry has a partnership with the Small Business Development Center located on the campus of Newberry College. This Center provides a variety of services to small businesses, including assistance with the development of business plans for new and existing businesses. For more information, please contact the Small Business Development Center at Newberry College by calling 803.321.5689

Business Questionnaire by City Department

BUILDING AND ZONING DEPARTMENT

Contact Building and Zoning about permitting, lot cleaning, and building codes compliance 803.321.1019

Q. Does the proposed business location have the proper zoning classification to allow the planned commercial use?
Q. Will the proposed commercial activity require new construction or physical alteration of an existing building?

If yes,

1. Has a building, sign, and/or any other necessary permits been obtained?
2. Will the proposed business activity involve mixed occupancy classifications (e.g. commercial and residential) and/or the preparation and modification of food and beverage?
3. Is the building located in the Downtown Historic District? If yes, has Architectural Review Board approval been obtained for any proposed alterations to the building’s exterior and signage?

UTILITY DEPARTMENT

Contact Utility Administration about water, wastewater, and electric services 803.321.1018

Q. Have you consulted the Utility Department regarding the availability and sizing requirements of water, wastewater, and electric service?
Q. Have you signed a City of Newberry utility service agreement?
Q. Have you made formal application for water and wastewater tap fees (new construction) or re-taps for existing buildings?
Q. Have you applied for or transferred utility service (existing building)?

FINANCE DEPARTMENT

Contact Finance about business licensing, city taxes, and utility billing 803.321.1007

Q. Have you obtained a City of Newberry Business and Professional License?
Q. Are you familiar with the City’s Local Hospitality and Accommodations Fee requirements (applicable to hotel, bed and breakfast, or restaurant operations)?
Q. Have you obtained a copy of the City of Newberry Local Hospitality and Accommodations fact sheet?

PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT

Contact Public Works about trash and garbage collection, street signs, traffic signs, ditch, sidewalk, and street maintenance 803.321.1020