Tax Structure

The Real Proof We Want Your Business


Portsmouth's tax structure favors new and expanding businesses.  Both state and local tax rates are modest, with credits and other incentives available to many companies. 
 Description  
 Admissions and Amusement Tax 10% 
 Cable Franchise Fee 5% of gross receipts
 Cigarette Tax $.90 per pack
 Guest Lodging Tax 8% plus 6% retail sales
 Machinery and Tool Tax $3.00 per $100 of original cost at 50% value
 Business Personal Proerty $5.00 per $100 of original cost at 50% value
 Retail Sales Tax (includes 1% collected for the city) 6%
 Restaurant Food Tax 6.5% plus 6% of retail sales
 Commercial Utility Tax         
 Cable 20% of first $2,000
 Electricity 20% of first $2,000
 Gas 20% of first $2,000
 Stormwater Fees    
 $9.25 per equivalent residential unit (ERU) per month for all properties, both residential and commerical
 Motor Vehicle License Fees      
 Motorcycle $24.00
 Automobile (vehicles up to 4,000 pounds) $32.00
 Automobile (vehicles over 4,000 pounds) $37.00
 Personal Property      
 Personal Property Tax $5.00 per $100 assessed value
 Personal Property Tax - Boats $.50 per $100 of assessed value
 Real Estate Tax $1.30 per $100 of assessed value
 Residential Sewer Charge $3.72 per 1,000 gallons 
 Residential Solid Waste Fee $33.36 per month
 Residential Water Charges $4.75 per 1,000 gallons 
 Residential Utility Taxes  
 Electricity $3.40