FAQs • Goochland County Economic Development, VA • CivicEngage

Do I need a business license?: All businesses operating in Goochland County are required to register with the Commissioner of the Revenue, however not all businesses require a license to operate. Our business license fees are based on the past year gross receipts (or estimated revenue) and are very competitive with other jurisdictions.

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A Guide to Starting Your Business

The Goochland County Commissioner of the Revenue and the Economic Development Office is a great place to start. Both the Commissioner of the Revenue and Economic Development office has helpful information on their website – www.goochlandva.us or www.goochlandforbusiness.com

To reach the Commissioner of the Revenue, please call 804-556-5807 or the Economic Development Office at 804-556-5862.

2. Do I need a business license?: All businesses operating in Goochland County are required to register with the Commissioner of the Revenue, however not all businesses require a license to operate. Our business license fees are based on the past year gross receipts (or estimated revenue) and are very competitive with other jurisdictions.

3. What other County taxes or fees will I have to pay to operate a business in Goochland County?

Business Personal Property Tax - All businesses operating in Goochland County must pay business personal property tax on equipment used in running your business.

Machinery and Tools Tax – Some businesses may be required to pay machinery and tools tax

Transient Occupancy Tax – Short-term rentals and hotels are required to pay transient occupancy tax

4. What are the State requirements?

All businesses must register with the State for tax payment purposes. Please visit the Virginia Department of Taxation at www.tax.virginia.gov and click on Business Resources at the top right.

In addition, if you are not operating as a sole proprietor, you need to register with the State Corporation Commission at www.scc.virginia.gov

5. How do I obtain a Federal Tax Identification Number?: Every employer is required to have a federal identification number. An Employer Identification number (EIN) is also known as a Federal Identification Number and is used to identify a business entity. You may apply online at www.irs.gov.

6. How do I know my business is allowed in Goochland County?: Please contact the Goochland Department of Community Development at 556-5860 or the Economic Development Office at 556-5862 to find out if your business meets the requirements of the area.

7. What if I want to run my business out of my home?: Home based businesses are allowed if all the employees are occupants of the home. Some home businesses require a conditional use permit to operate. Please contact the Department of Community Development at 556-5860 for more information.

8. How do I find available property for sale or lease?: Goochland County Economic Development Department can provide information on available land or buildings for sale or lease. Please visit www.goochlandforbusiness.com and click on the “Real Estate” button or call us at 804-556-5862.

9. How can Goochland County Economic Development help my business?

Goochland County citizens have a thriving entrepreneurial spirit. Many of our business were conceived, developed, and grown in Goochland County.

To support small business development, Goochland County Economic Development will: