Home based businesses in Shoreline

From the City of Shoreline website

Do I need City approval to start a business in my home?

A city business license is required for doing business in the City of Shoreline. Businesses must comply with the Shoreline Development Code (SMC 20.40.400) and building code regulations. To apply for a business license contact Washington State Department of Licensing or call (360) 664-1400.

Business License Program

The City of Shoreline requires a general business license for businesses operating within the city limits of Shoreline, including businesses physically located outside city limits that perform services for customers inside city limits. City approval is required for initial issuance. Businesses must renew their license annually. Businesses that only deliver goods purchased outside of the city are exempt.

How to apply

Shoreline has partnered with the State of Washington Business Licensing Service (BLS) to handle applications for business licenses through the state’s combined-licensing process. 

File a Business License Application online through the State of Washington Business License Application.

You may also mail the following completed forms with the appropriate fee to:

State of Washington

Business Licensing Service

PO Box 9034

Olympia, WA 98507-9034

Business License Application

City Business License Addendum

For questions, contact the City Clerk’s Office at (206) 801-2230 or e-mail the Shoreline City Clerk. 

Regulated Businesses

The City of Shoreline licenses certain regulated businesses formerly licensed through King County. Examples of such businesses include adult cabarets, secondhand dealers, soliciting, pawnbrokers and adult panorams. It is important to note that some activities require criminal background investigations, zoning/land use approval, and review by the Fire Marshall when a license is issued, transferred or renewed. For more information on obtaining a license for a regulated business, contact the City Clerk's Office at (206) 801-2230 or e-mail the Shoreline City Clerk.