Streamlined Business License Renewal Process

• May 01, 2018

Local businesses spoke, and the City of Auburn listened.

In an effort to help reduce delays that could impact local businesses, the City of Auburn plans to streamline its business license renewal process.
“Recently, some business owners have expressed frustration regarding delays with the renewal of their business licenses,” said City Manager Peter Crichton. “Our goal is to make Auburn as business-friendly as possible, so our team has put procedures in place that will make the whole process smoother and more efficient.”

Effective immediately, upon receipt of a renewal application, City staff will process the application and notify the business owner within 7 business days if their license renewal has been approved or denied.

If a license is denied, the reasons will be stated in writing. If more time is necessary to determine whether the renewal will be approved, there will be a written notification explaining why more time may be needed. To meet the established timeline, City staff will meet weekly to review pending applications.

The business license approval process includes the City Clerk’s Office, as well as the Finance, Economic & Community Development, Fire and Police Departments.

“It's important for our City to support and encourage an environment where local business can thrive,” said Crichton. “Our team makes it a priority to be responsive to the needs of our business community and help them succeed. We believe that a flourishing business sector is one of the keys to becoming one of the best small cities in America.”

Implementation of this standard operating procedure will ensure that the City is consistent with its business licensing ordinance, which states: “The officials...shall approve or disapprove the application without delay...stating the reasons for any disapproval.” [Sec. 14-34 (h)]

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