BRC Alert

Volume 2, Issue 8, July 15, 2003

Master Business License Program Modified to Basic Business Licensing

1. Master Business License Program Modified to Basic Business Licensing
2. DC Business Tools Available

1. Master Business License Program Modified to Basic Business Licensing

On July 8, 2003, the District Council on a 12 to 1 vote passed emergency legislation known as the "Streamlining Regulation Emergency Act of 2003." The effect of this legislation on the Master Business Licensing program removes the District licensing requirement with the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs (DCRA) for all businesses that do not require special inspections, investigations, or approvals.

For all other businesses that were previously licensed and require inspections or special approvals, such as restaurants, delicatessens, and second-hand merchandise dealers, the business license requirements and renewal periods will remain the same, and will be converted into the "Basic Business License" (BBL) at the time of the license renewal.

The Basic Business License web site features frequently asked questions about the Basic Business Licensing including:

• Do I need a Business License?
• I already have a Master Business License - What Now?
• Under Basic Business Licensing do I still have to register my Trade Name?
• How do I register my Trade Name?

For information on the Basic Business License Program, visit Basic Business License Information or contact the BBL Info Center at (202) 442-4311. Send emails to bbl.infocenter@dc.gov.

2. DC Business Tools

• Business Resource Center
• Basic Business License
  or call (202) 442-4311
• Electronic Taxpayer Service Center
  or call (202) 727-4TAX
• DC Business Connections
  or call (202) 661-8677
• Economic Development Map
  or call (202) 727-6365
• NET 2000 Tax Calculator
  or call (202) 727-6365
• Citizen Service Requests
  or call (202) 727-1000

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