Get a Business License

To conduct business within the city limits of Hartford, you must obtain a business license.

Please download and complete the Business License Application Form and submit it along with the appropriate fee to the City of Hartford. Full instructions and fee details are outlined below.

Pursuant to Ordinance 14-09, no person shall engage in any of the trades, businesses, or professions within the city limits of Hartford for which licenses are required by any provision of this code or any other ordinance of the city without first applying for and obtaining a license from the City Clerk or other duly authorized issuing authority.

License Fees by Business Category

Prepared Food Delivery – $25 fee
Unloading/Loading Services – $100 fee
Flea Markets – $250 fee
Yard Sales (Limited to 2 per year, lasting no longer than 3 consecutive days) – $5 per sale
Peddler License (Valid for 30 days) – $10 fee
Catalog/Home-Based Party Sales – $25 fee
General Business License (All other trades/professions) – $75 fee
General Business License (30-Day) – $25 fee

Rental Property Owners

1–10 Units – $75 fee
11–20 Units – $150 fee
More than 20 Units – $225 fee

Licenses are valid for one (1) year, from July 1st to June 30th, and must be renewed annually.

Submit the Application

Please remit your completed form and payment to:

For questions, contact City Hall at (270) 298-3612 or email ota@hartfordky.org.

Note: Any business activity taking place in Hartford or Ohio County is also required to register and file with the Ohio County Occupational Tax Office. Call (270) 298-4410 for more information.