Selling at events in Maryland.
To sell at a craft show, fair or market in Maryland, you need a sales and use tax license: a temporary one valid for 30 days, or a permanent one if you sell at three or more events a year. Some sellers also need a county trader's license, and food vendors need a temporary permit from the county health department.
Updated
Temporary or permanent license.
- A temporary sales and use tax license covers sellers at events like craft shows and fairs and is valid for 30 days. Request it by email at Templicense@marylandtaxes.gov or by phone.
- If you sell at three or more events a year, get a permanent license through mdtaxconnect.gov.
- Maryland's sales tax rate is 6% (9% on alcohol).
Who needs one.
- A trader's license, issued by the county Clerk of the Circuit Court, is required unless you grow or make what you sell.
- Fees range from $15 to $800 depending on inventory ($2,125 in Baltimore City).
- Exhibitors at shows run by exempt groups such as churches don't need one if they did no more than three shows in the past year.
- The free transient vendor license doesn't apply to exhibitors at fairs, trade shows or flea markets.
County health permits.
- Montgomery County: a Food Service Facility License to sell or give away food, applied for at least 3 working days ahead.
- Prince George's County: a Temporary Food Service Facility Permit, applied for and paid online at least 5 business days ahead.
Before you rely on this.
This guide summarizes official sources and isn't legal or tax advice. Rules and fees change; confirm with the agency before you apply.
Common questions.
Do I need a Maryland sales tax license for one craft fair?
Yes, a temporary sales and use tax license valid for 30 days, unless you already hold a permanent one.
Keep reading.
Sources.
Facts on this page come from these sources, checked on 2026-10-10. Details change; tell us at hello@bzar.app if something here is out of date.
- https://services.marylandcomptroller.gov/taxes?id=kb_article_view&sysparm_article=KB0010107
- https://services.marylandcomptroller.gov/taxes?id=kb_article_view&sysparm_article=KB0010143
- https://www.marylandcomptroller.gov/businesses/new-business/business-licenses.html
- https://www.mdcourts.gov/clerks/calvert/faqsbusinesslicense
- https://montgomerycountymd.gov/HHS/LandR/SpecialFoodEvent.html
- https://www.princegeorgescountymd.gov/departments-offices/health/environmental-health/food-safety-permits-inspections/temporary-food-service-facility-permits
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