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1. Who is required to obtain a business license with the City of Pueblo?

Anyone conducting any type of business or making deliveries within the City limits of Pueblo is required to obtain a license. Refer to Title 9, Section 9-1-2 and Title 14, Section 14-4-81 of City of Pueblo Ordinances.

2. How much does a business license cost?

There is a base fee of $50 for a business license. Depending on the type of business being conducted, there may be additional fees and requirements involved. You can refer to Title 9 - Licenses and Permits or contact our office at (719) 553-2659 for specifics.

3. Why am I required to obtain a business license when I do not sell anything?

There are two basic types of business licenses: a Sales / Use Tax License and a Use Tax License. A Sales / Use Tax License is for businesses that sell and possibly also provide a service. A Use Tax License is for service type businesses only (i.e., contractors, doctors, attorneys, lawn service, and accountants).

4. What is the City sales and use tax rate?

The sales and use tax rate is 3.7%. The total tax rate for Pueblo is 7.6%. The breakdown consists of 3.7% for the City tax, 2.9% for the state tax, and 1% for the county tax.

5. What is use tax?

There is a 3.7% use tax imposed on purchases made outside the City limits of Pueblo for use, storage, or consumption in the City of Pueblo. Refer to Title 14, Section 14-4-63 of the Pueblo City Ordinances for additional information.

6. Am I still required to file a return even if no tax is due?

Yes, you must file a return even if there is zero to report.

7. Do I need to notify your office if my business closed?

Yes, we need written notification that your business has closed.

8. Do I need to have a separate license for each business location?

Yes, each business location must obtain a separate license.

9. Do I need to notify your office if my business name or address changes?

Yes, any type of change requires an update application being completed. Inspections may also be required for an address change.

10. If my business goes through a change of ownership, can the new owner operate with my license?

No, business licenses are not transferable. The new owner must go through the licensing process.

11. Is a state tax-exempt license sufficient for both state and city tax?

No, an organization must present both a state and city tax-exempt license.

12. I am a contractor doing a job for an exempt organization. Am I still required to pay sales tax?

Yes, all construction materials purchased or used within the City are taxable. There are no jobs that are exempt from sales and/or use tax. Construction contractors and/or subcontractors who perform a construction contract for a charitable or religious organization are considered to be the end user of all tangible personal property used or consumed and thus subject to sales and use tax. If the 3.7% City of Pueblo sales tax has not been paid, a 3.7% use tax is due. For more information, refer to the City of Pueblo Tax Guide.

13. I would like to set up as a temporary street vendor. Do I need to obtain a license?

Yes, in addition to a temporary use permit, you must obtain a sales tax license, a peddlers permit, and may need to go through inspections. Please contact the Finance Department at (719) 553-2659 for specific requirements.