What’s the Difference Between a License and a Permit?

What Is a License? 

A license is something you get that allows you to do a specific job or run a business. For example, if someone wants to open a restaurant, they need a license from the city. This license shows that they are allowed to sell food to people. You might also need a license to do other jobs, like being a barber or running a daycare. Think of a license like a special permission to do a job or run a business. 

What Is a Permit? 

A permit is something you need when you want to build something or make a big change to a building or a piece of land. For example, if you want to build a new house or put up a big sign, you need to get a permit from the city. The city gives you a permit after checking to make sure your plans are safe and follow the rules. Think of a permit like a permission slip from the city that lets you make changes to a place. 

How Are They Different? 

·  License: Permission to do a job or run a business. 

·  Permit: Permission to build something or make a big change. 

Both are important because they help keep Baltimore City safe and organized!