CAPE CHARLES, Va. — Applying for a business license or certain event permits in Cape Charles is getting faster and more convenient following the launch of a new online licensing system powered by Civic Review.
The Town of Cape Charles announced that the new system is designed to streamline business licensing and event permit applications, allowing residents and business owners to submit applications, supporting documents and payment information electronically.
The new system does not include Short-Term Rental (STR) licensing. Short-term rental operators will continue to follow the Town’s separate licensing process.
Under the new system, applicants can complete new business license applications and renewals online rather than relying on paper forms or making an in-person submission. Credit card payments can also be made securely through the online system.
The Finance Department will continue to assist residents and business owners who prefer face-to-face service. While licensing will be processed through the online system, the Town said cash and check payments will continue to be accepted at its offices this year.
One of the more significant changes is the ability for applicants to follow their applications through the approval process. Users can track the status of a business license application in real time and receive updates as it moves through Town review.
The Civic Review platform is also intended to improve communication between applicants and Town staff while automating portions of the Town’s internal workflow.
Town officials say those changes should result in shorter approval times.
Early results indicate the new system is already being used. In the short period since its launch, Cape Charles has processed six business license applications and two event applications through Civic Review.
According to the Town, processes that previously could take several days can now, in some cases, be completed in minutes.
How to Access the New System
The business licensing system is available through the Town of Cape Charles website. Applicants can find it under “Quick Links” by selecting “Business License Applications.”
Residents and organizations seeking event-related permits can also access the Use of Facility Application, along with Fall Festival Vendor and Parade Entry forms, through the Town’s Community Relations & Recreation page.
The move represents another step toward shifting routine Town administrative services online while maintaining in-person assistance for residents and business owners who need it.
For Cape Charles businesses, the most immediate change is a simpler process: applications, documentation, payments and status updates can now largely be handled in one online system rather than through multiple paper-based steps.

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