Notice! On January First 2010, all business license holders will need to Renew their licenses through the Department of Revenue of the state of Tennessee. Businesses with questions may call the Tennessee Department of Revenue at 931-526-9699.  Renewals may also be processed online.

Businesses applying for a New Business License will still need to apply for the initial license with the County Clerk.

The County Clerk will also continue to be responsible for issuing licenses to transient vendors and owners, managers, operator, or promoters of antique malls, flea markets, craft shows, antique shows, gun shows, and auto shows.

In Putnam County, most businesses must obtain a business license and report their gross receipts to the County Clerk on a yearly basis. The exceptions are businesses that pay the Professional Privilege Tax, manufacture products for the disabled, or gross less than $3,000.00 annually.

After the first 30 days of operation, a new business has an additional 30 days to obtain a license. The fee for a business license is $15.00. Applications can be completed in the County Clerk's office or by mail.

To receive an application, please call the office at 931-526-7106. We will be glad to answer questions or mail an application. The completed application and $15 fee can be returned by mail to:

Wayne Nabors, Putnam County Clerk      Download Form Here
Business Tax
P.O. Box 220
Cookeville, Tennessee 38503

Note: When a business closes or transfers ownership, the owner must close out that business license with the County Clerk's office, and any outstanding taxes must be paid in full. If this step has not been completed, the new owner can be liable for the outstanding taxes that were incurred by the previous owner.

Businesses that need a Sales Tax Number may call the Tennessee Department of Revenue at 931-526-9699. The office is located on South Lowe Street in Fountain Court Shopping Center, Cookeville.