Apply for Licenses and Permits

Apply for Licenses and Permits

All businesses in the City of Georgetown require a valid Commercial Service Application (Certificate of Occupancy Permit) prior to occupying the business space or opening to the general public. This application is not transferable, so anytime the business owner, business name or business address changes, a new application will need to be submitted.

For businesses who plan to install signage within Georgetown’s commercial historic district, they will need to obtain a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA). A COA is an approval issued by the Historic Preservation Officer (HPO) or by the Historic and Architectural Review Commission (HARC). For more information about COAs, including the application process, click here.

The state of Texas does not require a business or occupational license/permit. However, some businesses working in industries such as cosmetology, barbering, sanitation or towing may be subject to their own licensing requirements of state regulatory bodies. You can visit the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation to learn if you need to take further action.

TABC Permits

If you’re serving alcohol, you’ll need to contact the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commision (TABC) to receive a prequalification packet. The packet must be approved by the city of Georgetown and the Williamson County Clerk.

You can view the Williamson County wet/dry maps here. Bring your original copy of the TABC prequalification packet as well as an extra copy since you’ll be asked to leave a copy with the county clerk’s office. There is a fee of $16.

Complete Inspections

Depending on the type of business, a facility inspection may be required by the city or county. If you have a business space or want to open to the general public and you’ve applied to the city for a Commercial Service Application (Certificate of Occupancy), you will also need to complete fire and building inspections. After you submit an application, you will be contacted to conduct inspections through the city. For more information you can call (512) 930-2550 or email permits@georgetown.org.

The Williamson County and Cities Health District must be contacted if you are selling food, beverages and/or operating a daycare center. The district also oversees business sanitation services.

Williamson County and Cities Health District
100 West 3rd Street
Georgetown, TX 78626
512.943.3600

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