Quick Answer
No, you cannot use one Basic Business License for multiple properties. If you own separate rental units such as condos, coops, and single-family homes, each rental property you own in the District of Columbia requires its own license.
Understanding DC's Licensing Requirements
When You Need Multiple Licenses
You must obtain a separate Basic Business License for each property if you own:
- Individual condominiums
- Individual cooperative units
- Separate single-family homes
- Any properties with different Tax IDs (Square and Lot Numbers)
When One License Covers Multiple Units
You can use a single license to cover multiple units only if you own an entire structure with multiple units that have not been converted to condominiums or cooperatives. In this case:
- For 2 residential units: Apply for a 2-unit license
- For 3 or more residential units: Apply for a DC Apartment License
Important Details to Know
Tax ID is Key
Basic Business Licenses are issued specifically to one property, identified by its Tax ID (known as Square and Lot Numbers). This serves as the legal address for any parcel of real estate in DC. Each lot in DC has its own unique legal address, which determines licensing requirements.
Converted Properties
If the structure you own has multiple residential units that were converted to condos or coops, you must license each unit separately because each unit has its own Tax ID.
Mixed-Use Buildings
If you own a multi-use building with both commercial and residential units, you are required to obtain two different licenses:
- One license specifically for the residential units
- Another license specifically for the commercial units
Additional Requirements
Be advised that if your property has two or more units (excluding condos and coops), you will also need a Certificate of Occupancy specific to the use case in addition to the Basic Business License:
- Two Family Certificate for two-unit properties
- Apartment House Certificate for 3 or more units