14 Nov “Do I Need A Business License?”
Do Artists Need a Business License?
If you regularly create and sell art in any state, you may need a business license. Artists are considered small business owners when they produce, market, or sell their work for profit, whether it’s through art festivals, online shops, commissions, or public art projects.
Business licenses are often issued by your city or county government, not the state. This is true for Georgia. For example, artists working in Augusta should apply through Augusta-Richmond County’s Licensing and Inspection Department. Those who work from home can usually apply for a home occupation business license.
You should consider applying for a business license if you:
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Sell your artwork or creative products regularly
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Offer paid services such as commissions, murals, or workshops
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Operate under a business name other than your own
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Maintain a studio, gallery, or other public-facing workspace
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Need to collect or remit state sales tax on your art sales
You may not need a license if you sell occasionally, earn only hobby-level income, or sell through a gallery that manages all transactions. However, keeping good records and reporting your income correctly is always important.
For most working artists, registering as a business can make it easier to:
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Access grant and public art opportunities
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Open a business bank account
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Qualify for wholesale pricing or tax deductions
👉 In Augusta-Richmond County, learn more or apply for a business license here:
https://www.augustaga.gov/2102/Business-Licenses
For our YOUTH EMERGING ARTISTS UNDER 18 YEARS OF AGE!
In Georgia, a young artist under 18 typically does not need a business license just to sell a few pieces of artwork, especially if sales are occasional (like at a school fair, art show, or through a parent’s account). However, the answer depends on how regularly they’re selling and how the business is structured.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
✅ No business license needed if:
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The artist is selling art casually or occasionally (for example, a few paintings at a local art fair or online once in a while).
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The sales are done under a parent or guardian’s name (the adult holds any necessary business or tax registration).
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The artist is not operating as a full-time or formal business (no regular storefront, studio sales, or significant income).
⚠️ A business license may be required if:
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The artist regularly sells artwork for profit (through Etsy, commissions, or ongoing markets).
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They are running it as an official business — with a business name, branding, or separate bank account.
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They are required to collect and remit sales tax (Georgia Department of Revenue requires registration for taxable sales).
👩⚖️ Because they’re under 18:
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A parent or guardian would generally need to apply for and hold the business license on their behalf.
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Some local governments won’t issue a business license directly to a minor.
💡 In short:
A young artist selling art casually doesn’t need a business license, but if they’re treating it as a business — consistent sales, marketing, or commissions — a parent or guardian should help them register properly with local and state authorities