Do You Need a License to Start a Cleaning Business in Tennessee?

Tennessee does not require a special cleaning license for most house cleaning businesses. However, you do need a business license from your city or county. You also need a Sales Tax License from the state. Since cleaning services are taxable in Tennessee, you need a sales tax permit to collect tax. You also need an Employer Identification Number if you hire workers.

What Licenses Do You Need for a Cleaning Business in Tennessee?

Tennessee keeps it straightforward for cleaning businesses. You do not need a state-level cleaning license. But you do need a few basic permits to operate legally.

Here is a list of the most common requirements:

• City or county business license — required in most Tennessee cities
• Sales Tax License — Since cleaning services are taxable in Tennessee, you must register for a sales tax license with the Tennessee Department of Revenue
• Assumed Name registration — needed if you use a name other than your own legal name
• Sales Tax permit — required because cleaning services are taxable in Tennessee
• Employer Identification Number — required if you hire employees
• Workers' compensation insurance — required in Tennessee if you have 5 or more employees
• General liability insurance — not required by law but expected by most clients

Required Versus Optional Permits

Not every permit applies to every cleaning business. The table below shows what you need based on your situation.

Do You Need a Business License in Tennessee?

Yes. Most cities and counties in Tennessee require a business license. This is true even if you work from home.

A business license gives you legal permission to operate. Without one, you may face fines or be shut down.

How to Get a City Business License

1. Visit your city's website — find the business license section
2. Fill out the application — you will need your name, address, and business type
3. Pay the fee — most cities charge $25 to $200 per year
4. Receive your license — some cities issue it the same day

Sales Tax License

Since cleaning services are taxable in Tennessee, you must register for a sales tax license with the Tennessee Department of Revenue.

Do You Need a Assumed Name Registration?

If your business uses any name other than your legal name, yes. In Tennessee, you file a assumed name registration with your county register of deeds.

The fee is typically $20. Renewal is no expiration.

Do Cleaning Businesses Need to Collect Sales Tax in Tennessee?

Tennessee charges sales tax on cleaning and janitorial services. You must register for a sales tax license with the Tennessee Department of Revenue.

You must charge your clients the 7% state rate plus any applicable local taxes. Keep accurate records of all taxes collected.

How to Register for a Sales Tax Permit

Since cleaning services are taxable in Tennessee, you must register for a sales tax license with the Tennessee Department of Revenue. Registration is typically free. You will receive a permit number to use on invoices.

File your sales tax returns on time. Most states require monthly or quarterly filing.

What Insurance Is Required for Cleaning Businesses in Tennessee?

Tennessee law does not require general liability insurance for cleaning businesses. But most clients will not hire you without it. Insurance protects you from costly lawsuits and damage claims.

General Liability Insurance

This covers damage to a client's property. It also covers injuries that happen during a job. Most cleaning businesses pay $30 to $60 per month for this coverage.

A typical policy covers $1 million per incident and $2 million total. Read our full cleaning business insurance guide for more details.

Workers' Compensation Insurance

Tennessee requires workers' compensation insurance if you have 5 or more employees. It covers medical bills and lost wages if a worker gets hurt on the job.

The cost depends on your payroll and the type of work. Most cleaning businesses pay $1 to $3 per $100 of payroll.

Surety Bond

A surety bond is not required by law. But it gives clients extra peace of mind. A bond protects clients if an employee steals or causes damage. Most bonds cost $100 to $300 per year.

Do You Need an Employer Identification Number in Tennessee?

You need an Employer Identification Number if you hire workers. The Internal Revenue Service issues this number for free. You can apply online and get it right away.

You also need one if you form a limited liability company or a corporation. Sole owners who work alone can use their Social Security number instead.

How to Get an Employer Identification Number

1. Go to the Internal Revenue Service website — find the online application
2. Answer the questions — about your business type and structure
3. Get your number instantly — it is issued right after you finish

There is no fee. The whole process takes about 10 minutes.

What Are the Local Permit Requirements in Major Tennessee Cities?

Each Tennessee city has its own rules. Some cities are simple. Others have extra steps and higher fees.

The table below shows requirements for the largest cities.

Tips for Local Permits

• Check your city's website first — requirements change often
• Call the city clerk's office — they can walk you through the steps
• Ask about home-based rules — some cities need a home occupation permit
• Keep copies of everything — store your permits in a safe place

How Much Do Tennessee Cleaning Business Licenses Cost?

The total cost to get licensed depends on your city and business structure. Most cleaning businesses spend $200 to $800 to get fully set up.

Here is a breakdown of common costs:

What Are the Renewal and Compliance Deadlines?

Most licenses and permits need regular renewal. Missing a deadline can lead to late fees or a lapsed license. Here is a timeline to follow.

How to Stay on Track

• Set calendar reminders — add alerts 30 days before each deadline
• Keep a compliance folder — store all permits and renewal dates in one place
• Use business management software — tools like MaidProfit help you track deadlines
• Check with your city each year — rules and fees can change