The City of Winchester requires a business license for all work performed within the city limits. The license year is May through April. Licenses expire April 30th and are renewable without penalty by May 31st each year. A renewal notice is sent out in April of each year. A self-addressed envelope must be sent with the renewal notice to receive a copy of the license.

Application & Inspection
New annual licenses are prorated throughout the year. License fees are based on predetermined categories. To apply, an License Application must be completed. If the business has a physical location, it must be inspected by

• Electrical inspector
• Code enforcement officer
• Fire marshal
• Health department inspection (if serving or preparing food)

Inspection information will be issued by the Finance Department once the application is received. The application can be mailed to:
City of Winchester
P.O. Box 4135
Winchester, KY 40392

Or delivered in person to the Finance Department
City Hall
32 Wall St
Winchester, KY

Monday - Friday
8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Non-profit businesses are not required to purchase a business license but must register with the city and complete the inspection process.

If you relocate your business, you must purchase a new license for the new location and complete the inspection process for the new location.

Rental Licenses
The City of Winchester requires a Rental License for owners of rental property whose gross receipts are more than $5,000. The license year is May through April. A Reconciliation of Revenues Application must be completed. Renewal notices are sent out in April of each year. A self-addressed stamped envelope must be sent with the renewal notice to receive a copy of the license.