Town Limits vs. York County Rules for Clover Businesses in 2026
Clover Town Limits vs. York County Businesses
Starting a business is exciting, but figuring out the rules can feel overwhelming, especially when local regulations vary by location. If you’re thinking about opening a business in Clover, one of the most common questions is:“Do the same rules apply if I’m in the town of Clover versus York County?”
Short answer: No, location matters. Check to see if your address is within the Clover town limits.
Set Up Your Business at the State Level
No matter where you’re located in South Carolina, every business starts here.
- Choose your business structure (sole proprietorship, LLC, corporation, nonprofit, etc.).
- Register your business with the South Carolina Secretary of State if you’re forming an LLC or corporation.
- Obtain an EIN from the IRS if you’ll have employees or want to separate personal and business finances.
- Register with the South Carolina Department of Revenue if you’ll collect sales tax or have employees.
Set Up Your Business License with the Town of Clover
If your address is inside the town boundaries of Clover, you must obtain a local business license from the Town of Clover.
If your business is outside Clover town limits and located in unincorporated York County, you do not require a general county business license. This true for most businesses. This applies to: Brick-and-mortar businesses, Home-based businesses, and Mobile businesses operating within town limits.
If your business is located inside another municipality (like Rock Hill or Tega Cay), you’ll need to follow that town’s licensing rules instead.
City vs. County Businesses: Quick Comparison
| Requirement | Inside Clover | Outside Clover (York County) |
|---|---|---|
| Local Business License | Required | Not usually required |
| Zoning Approval | Yes | Often required |
| County Business License | No | No |
| State Registration & Taxes | Yes | Yes |
Zoning and Permits
Before applying for a business license, you must ensure your location is compliant with town ordinances.
- Zoning approval to confirm your business type is allowed at your location.
- Building permits for renovations or signage.
- Health department permits for food, childcare, salons, or medical services.
- Professional or occupational licenses for regulated industries.
All new businesses, including home-based ones, must apply for Zoning Compliance. You can apply for this permit online via the Evolve portal for a $35 fee. Contact Kristy Doss at (803) 222-9495 for more information.
Business License
- Once zoning is cleared, you can proceed with the business license itself.
Download the current year's business license application. Contact Phillips Dunbar at (803) 222-9495 for more information. Businesses can now RENEW their business license for 23-24 by using the SC Business License Renewal Portal. The business license year runs from May 1 to April 30.
Home-Based Businesses in Clover, SC
Running a business from home is one of the most popular ways to get started, and yes, home-based businesses are allowed in and around Clover. That said, the rules depend heavily on whether your home is inside town limits or in unincorporated York County.
Home-Based Businesses Inside Clover Town Limits
If your home-business address is inside the town boundaries of Clover, you must obtain a local business license from the Town of Clover.
- The business must be secondary to residential use.
- Limited or no exterior signage.
- Minimal traffic, deliveries, or noise.
- No large-scale inventory storage.
- Certain businesses (like auto repair, manufacturing, or high-traffic retail) may not be allowed.
Even if you don’t see customers in person, a license is still required if your business operates from a Clover address.
Home-Based Businesses in Unincorporated York County
If your home-business is outside Clover town limits and located in unincorporated York County, you do not require a general county business license.
- Zoning or land-use approval may still be needed.
- A home occupation permit may apply depending on the business type.
Some businesses may still require the following:
- Health department permits (food, childcare, wellness).
- State professional licenses.
- Environmental or safety approvals.
Final Tips for Home-Based Entrepreneurs
- Confirm whether your address is inside town limits.
- Ask specifically about home occupation requirements.
- Get approvals before advertising or accepting clients.
If you’re ever unsure, asking questions early is always the smartest move. A quick check with local officials or trusted business resources can provide clarity.
FAQs
Do I need a business license to start in Clover, SC?
If inside town limits, yes. A local Clover business license is required. In unincorporated York County, it's not usually needed for most businesses.
How do rules differ for home-based businesses in Clover vs. York County?
Inside Clover: License and zoning approval required, with restrictions on signage, traffic, and noise. Outside - no county license, but zoning or permits may apply to preserve residential areas.
What state-level steps are required no matter where I am?
Choose a structure, register with the SC Secretary of State (for LLCs/corporations), get an EIN from the IRS, and register with the SC Department of Revenue for taxes/employees.
How do I know if my address is inside Clover town limits?
Verify with local officials or zoning maps; it's based on your business's physical location, not mailing address.
When do Clover business licenses expire and renew?
They run May 1–April 30; renew by April 30 to avoid penalties.
Are there special rules for certain industries?
Yes—food, health, childcare, etc., need health department permits; regulated professions require occupational licenses.
Can I run a mobile business without a license?
If operating in Clover town limits, yes, a license is required; check zoning for specifics.
What if my business is in another York County town like Rock Hill?
Follow that municipality's rules instead of Clover or county guidelines.
