Published June 29 2026
The City of Bellevue is inviting business owners and operators to provide feedback on proposed updates to the city’s square footage business tax and licensing system. The changes are designed to make it easier for businesses to calculate their square footage tax and to support improved, more accurate business records.
The city is proposing to simplify Bellevue’s square footage tax structure, aligning with the other five jurisdictions in the region that levy a square footage tax. The proposal would create a clearer, easier-to-understand calculation method for business owners and make compliance simpler for smaller businesses and companies that operate in multiple Puget Sound cities. For most businesses, the financial impact of the update is expected to be neutral.
The city is also proposing to transition Bellevue’s business license from a one-time fee to an annual license renewal. Moving to an annual license — common in many neighboring cities and by state licensing requirements — would help ensure the city maintains accurate, up-to-date records and connects better with local businesses to provide more effective services. As part of this update, Bellevue is proposing a tiered fee structure that would still be lower than neighboring cities with a similar structure.
The city will be gathering feedback from businesses over the summer, bringing a refined proposal back to the City Council for action this fall. Business owners and operators are invited to explore the proposed updates and take a survey or attend a virtual information session on Thursday, July 30, 6-7 p.m. to provide feedback.
For alternate formats, interpreters or reasonable accommodations, please phone at least 48 hours in advance 425-452-6944 (voice) or email tax@bellevuewa.gov. For complaints regarding accommodations, contact the city's ADA, Title VI and equal opportunity officer at 425-452-6168 (voice).