Going Out of Business Sale

In accordance with Article 29-F of New York State General Business Law, any business conducting a Going out of Business or “Similar Sale” must obtain a license from the municipality in which it is located.  The intent of this New York State regulation is to prevent the public from being misled or defrauded by the misrepresentation of a sale.

Fee

$500 for the original application of 30 days
$50 for each thirty-day renewal  
If the sale is completed within 60 days, all fees except for $75 will be refunded to the applicant.  Notification of the completion of the sale must be submitted in writing in order to qualify for a refund.

Application Process

1. Complete all sections of the Going Out of Business or “Similar Sales” Application form.
2. Submit a complete inventory.
3. If the application is for a “closing-out sale” or a “defunct business sale”, it shall be filed at least fifteen (15) days prior to the date on which such sale is to commence.
4. If the application is for a “sale of merchandise damaged by fire, smoke or water”, it may be made at any time prior to the date on which such sale is to commence.
5. Return the application form, copy of inventory and appropriate fee to the City Clerk’s Office, 245 Washington Street, Watertown, NY 13601 or place in an envelope addressed to the “City Clerk” in the City Hall Drop Box located at the Sterling Street entrance to the building.

Extension of License Period

• A license hereunder may be renewed for one additional period of thirty (30) days upon application therefore and payment of a fee of $50.00.  
• The application for renewal shall be made not more than ten (10) days prior to the date of the expiration of the license
• The application for renewal shall contain an inventory of the merchandise remaining on hand at the time the application for renewal is made.  This inventory shall be prepared and furnished in the same manner and form as the original inventory. 

30-day Renewal Process

1. Complete all sections of the Going Out of Business or “Similar Sales” Renewal Application form.
2. Submit a complete inventory.
3. Return the renewal form, copy of inventory and fee to the City Clerk’s Office, 245 Washington Street, Watertown, NY 13601 or place in an envelope addressed to the “City Clerk” in the City Hall Drop Box located at the Sterling Street entrance to the building.