Apply for a Transient Merchant License

1. Check your eligibility

You are eligible if you have a valid driver's license and don't owe money to the City. We're unable to issue you a business license if you don't meet these requirements.

UNSURE IF YOU OWE?

• Check if you owe court fees, property taxes or parking tickets. Call the Treasurer's Office at 616-456-3020
• Check if you owe taxes to the City. Call the Income Tax Department at 616-456-3415

2. Make sure you need this license

Exemptions

Some organizations and individuals are exempt from the permit requirement.

• Individuals under 18 on foot in the neighborhood of their residence and under supervision of a school or recognized charity or religious organization
• Individuals exempt by State or Federal law
• Authorized representative of a church, charitable organization, education, fraternal organization, or political group
• Individuals or businesses doing business at a City-operated market

3. Review the requirements

Here's a look at the license requirements:

• May not operate in the downtown area
• May not obstruct any street, alley, sidewalk, or driveway
• May not use a fixed stand
• May not stop or remain in any one location for longer than is necessary to make a sale
• Door to door sales may only be made between the hours of 9:00 am and 9:00 pm

Food or beverage sales

If you're selling food and/or beverages, you'll need a food permit. Your permit will come from either the Kent County Health Department (616-632-6900) or the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (800-292-3939).

Have questions? Give us a call at the number listed in the Contact Us section of this page. There are many things that you need to do to apply for the license. We recommend reviewing the Transient Merchant License Checklist(PDF) for more details.

4. Have your payment ready

There is a $308 application fee. Application fees are non-refundable.