Photography Business Permit Requirements in Spokane, WA

Complete permit and license guide for starting a photography business in Spokane, Spokane County, Washington.

$75 -- $600 1–3 weeks for all registrations (longer if drone certification needed) 6 requirements

Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. Last verified: March 15, 2026.

Spokane / Spokane County Requirements

2 requirements

Spokane — General Business License / Occupational Tax Certificate

Most businesses operating within Spokane must obtain a general business or occupational tax certificate from the city or county. This applies to photography studios and freelance photographers with a commercial location. Home-based photographers may also need a Home Occupation Permit to conduct client sessions or operate a studio from their residence. Check with the Spokane County licensing office for specific requirements.

$50–$400/year depending on city fee schedule and gross revenues1–3 weeks

Official government source

Spokane — Commercial Photography / Film Permit (Public Locations)

If you conduct paid photography shoots in public spaces (parks, streets, city-owned plazas, or other public property) in Spokane, you may need a commercial photography or film permit. These permits are required to manage use of public spaces for commercial purposes and to ensure public safety. Requirements vary by location, crew size, and duration. Contact the Spokane film office, parks department, or city clerk for specifics.

$25–$500 depending on location, duration, and crew size3–10 business days

Official government source

Washington State Requirements

2 requirements

Washington — No State Photography License Required

Washington does not require a state-issued license or certification to offer paid photography services. Photography is an unregulated profession at the state level — there is no state board or licensing agency that certifies photographers in Washington.

N/AN/A

Official government source

Washington Department of Revenue — Business License (includes sales tax)

Washington requires photographers to collect Business & Occupation (B&O) tax on services and retail sales tax on tangible photographs. The combined rate in Spokane is 6.5% state + 2.4% local. Register with the Washington Department of Revenue (a single Business License registration covers both B&O and sales tax).

Free to $25 (registration fee)Immediate to 1 week (online)

Official government source

Federal Requirements

2 requirements

EIN (Employer Identification Number)

Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC/corporation. Also useful for opening a business bank account and separating personal and business finances. Free from the IRS.

FreeImmediate (online application)

Official government source

FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate (Drone Photography)

Required if you offer commercial aerial photography using drones (unmanned aircraft systems). Must pass the FAA Aeronautical Knowledge Test at an approved testing center. Operating commercially without this certificate can result in significant fines. This is a federal requirement enforced by the FAA regardless of state.

$175 (exam fee)2–4 weeks to study and schedule exam

Official government source