If a business owner intends to operate in any municipality, whether Belize City or Belmopan, an application for a trade license is necessary. Trade licenses are obtained from the local city or town council. They general criteria for application are outlined below:

• Submit copy of Business Names Registration
• Submission of application form
• Interview with applicant
• Must be developing in a designated “commercial area” of the city
• Fees are calculated based on annual rental value of the property and are divided by sectors. Specifically, the rate of 3.5% is charged for supermarkets, grocery stores, furniture shops, and repair shops. The rate of 5% is charged for hardware stores, gas stations, and dentistry offices. The maximum rate charged is 25% for business in gaming or engaged in monopolies.

The final approval of a trade license is based on the recommendation of the Trade Licensing Board responsible for each town or city. Trade license applications are approved quarterly.

For Further Information Contact:

Belmopan City Council
36/38 Trinity Boulevard
Belmopan City, Cayo District
Tel: +501-822-2271 Fax: +501-822-3992
Email: bmpcitco@btl.net

Or

Belize City Council
109 North Front Street
Belize City, Belize
Tel: +501-227-2308 Fax: +501-227-7236
Email: mayor@btl.net