Tax and Licensing for Events

Special events in Tacoma often involve vendors, ticket sales, and other activities that require compliance with local tax and licensing regulations. For Special Events a Temporary & Multiple Vendor Events license is required.
For a list of industry-specific business license types see Specific Business Activity Guidelines | Business Licensing | City of Tacoma

What is a Temporary Event?

"Temporary Event" is an event open to the public for no more than seven consecutive days that includes five or more vendors. Examples include:

  • Trade shows

  • Festivals

  • Fairs

  • Arts and crafts shows

  • Home shows

  • Recreational vehicle shows

  • Boat shows

  • Antique shows​.

These events require compliance with the City of Tacoma's tax and licensing regulations to ensure proper management and oversight.

Temporary Event – Multiple Vendor License

The promoter of a temporary event may obtain a Temporary Event – Multiple Vendor License in lieu of requiring each vendor to obtain an individual business license as mandated under Tacoma Municipal Code (TMC) 6B.20. Instead, the promoter pays a licensing fee of $5 per vendor per day, which consolidates licensing for all vendors participating in the event​​.

Application Process

Submission Requirements

  • Complete the Temporary Event – Multiple Vendor License application.

  • Submit the application and licensing fees to the City of Tacoma Tax & License Office​.

Application Routing

  • Applications are routed to various City departments for review to ensure the activity aligns with public health, safety, and welfare requirements​.

Timeline

Allow 10-15 business days for the City to approve or deny the license​.

Additional Requirements

Tax Obligations
Promoters are required to remit applicable taxes under TMC 6A.30. This ensures compliance with the City’s tax regulations for events​​.