Room to Grow

Doing Business in Clay

The City of Clay is committed to supporting a thriving local business community. Whether you're starting a new business, renewing an existing license, or looking for information on local requirements, you'll find the resources you need here.

Got Questions?

What You Need to Know About Doing Business in Clay

The City of Clay requires a business license for anyone conducting business within city limits, including food trucks. The following answers common questions about obtaining, renewing, and maintaining your license.

Do I need a license?

Yes, if you conduct any business, trade, profession, or activity within Clay city limits — including making sales calls or deliveries.

Can I use a P.O. Box?

No. A physical address is required.

Do I need a separate license for each location?

Yes, and for each line of business at that location.

When is the license due?

Annually by January 31. New businesses starting before July 1 pay a full year; on or after July 1, pay half.

What if I start operating without a license?

You'll be charged double the license fee, plus potential fines up to $500/day and up to six months imprisonment for willful violations.

What happens if I pay late?

A 15% penalty after 30 days, another 15% after 60 days, plus 1% simple interest per month.

I'm new — what do I estimate?

Your best estimate of first-year gross receipts. No refund if actuals come in lower, but the next year's fee adjusts to actuals.

Can I transfer my license to a new owner?

No — licenses cannot transfer between taxpayers.

Can I transfer to a new location?

Only once per year, with revenue officer approval.

Do I have to display my license?

Yes, conspicuously at your place of business. Mobile businesses must have it on-site/jobsite.

Can the city inspect my records?

Yes. You're required to provide books, invoices, tax returns, and bank records upon demand.

I have spent the majority of my life in Clay, and this city is "home" more than any other place I have lived. Clay is full of people who are always ready to help their neighbors, hard-working, salt-of-the-earth individuals.


The City of Clay is on an upswing; we are working on great things for the future. I think it's the perfect time to open a business and help the city grow to its fullest potential. In my experience, my fellow business owners have been supportive, and we work together to help one another succeed.

Nathan Thompson
Local Business Owner and City Councilor
Nathan Thompson, Local Business Owner and City Councilor

Still Have Questions?

Read through the documents below or contact City Hall at 205-680-1223.

Business Forms

  • Business License Application

    BusinessBusiness License

    Complete and return this form to obtain your City of Clay business license before beginning operations.

    Uploaded March 6, 2026

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  • Business License Ordinances

    BusinessBusiness License

    Review the city's business license ordinance — the official municipal code outlining the rules, requirements, and fees for obtaining and maintaining a business license in Clay.

    Uploaded March 6, 2026

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  • Gross Receipts Affidavit

    BusinessBusiness License

    Use this affidavit to declare your gross receipts for the preceding license year as required for business license calculation.

    Uploaded March 6, 2026

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  • Affidavit Concerning Unauthorized Aliens

    BusinessBusiness License

    Complete this affidavit to certify E-Verify enrollment and compliance with Alabama Code 31-13-9 as required for any City of Clay contract, grant, or incentive.

    Uploaded March 6, 2026

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Building & Sign Permits

  • Blasting Permit

    Permits and Applications

    Uploaded March 31, 2026

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  • Non Residential Building Permit

    Permits and Applications

    Uploaded March 31, 2026

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  • Plumbing Permit

    Permits and Applications

    Uploaded March 31, 2026

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  • Demolition Permit

    Permits and Applications

    Uploaded March 31, 2026

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  • Residential Roofing Permit Application

    Permits and Applications

    Uploaded March 31, 2026

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  • Gas Permit

    Permits and Applications

    Uploaded March 31, 2026

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  • Rental Application

    Permits and Applications

    Uploaded March 31, 2026

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  • Sign Permit Application

    Permits and Applications

    Uploaded March 31, 2026

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  • Planning and Zoning Application

    Permits and Applications

    Uploaded March 31, 2026

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  • Annexation Petition

    Permits and Applications

    Uploaded March 31, 2026

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  • Erosion/Excavation Permit

    Permits and Applications

    Uploaded March 31, 2026

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  • Business License Application

    Permits and Applications

    Uploaded March 31, 2026

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  • Application for Mechanical Permit

    Permits and Applications

    Uploaded March 31, 2026

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  • Residential New Construction Application

    Permits and Applications

    Uploaded March 31, 2026

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  • Electrical Permit

    Permits and Applications

    Uploaded March 31, 2026

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  • Residential Miscellaneous Building Permit

    Permits and Applications

    Uploaded March 31, 2026

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  • Clay Annexation Petition adopted Feb 2015

    Permits and ApplicationsBusiness

    Uploaded March 10, 2026

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