Code enforcement wants permit

Okay, so last weekend I had permission from a local business, who has a cruise-in car show every Friday night, to set up my booth.
As I was setting up, some man showed up and asked if I had a business permit. He said he was code enforcement. I was so rattled that I didn't even think to ask to see some ID! So I shut down before I even started.
Cut to today.
I got a facebook message from our local orchard, who does a corn maze every fall, wanting to know if I'd be interested in setting up there. I have no idea if they want me to charge, or if they want to hire me and offer my services as an option.
If I have to charge, will I need a permit? GRR! I called city hall to ask, and had to leave a message.
I'm getting my business tax licence this week.
Has anyone else had an issue like this? I'm just getting started, so I have no idea what I need!

I have never had issues like this. I'd bluff back, and say that you were brought in by "such and such" (the business), so that they really need to talk to them and let them hash out whatever. My guess would be that it stops right then and there. If it doesn't, and you need to do something more--well, you'll find out. But you have created a bit of a buffer.

I contacted our city and while each city/county is different, as this is a "service" and not selling goods (like balloons) that a permit is not required. They said if someone ever asked that you tell them you already talked to so and so and they okayed it. I've never been approached so I couldn't say for sure. I know some areas around here if you charge you have to have a permit but if it is for tips you don't. I was told if you are hired by that company that it would be okay as they probably already have permits. I hope it works out, I'm sure it isn't as bad as you are thinking and will all work out. Good luck and let us know!

My city doesn't require a permit or licence since it's a service rather than selling goods. I had a lady try to tell me I needed a business licence to face paint. I told her I did not, and asked her to call the tax office if she wanted further information. She referred someone to me the next week that hired me. So all turned out well

In my county, they require a business licence for businesses selling services. But not until I make $3000 annually.
Considering how far in the red I am, that will be awhile!

Oh, and PS. The county clerk's office suggested a vendor's permit. Cost=$75. Lasts only 14 days.
Um, nope.

Each town may have their own rule independent of what the state may or may not require. I painted in a store's parking lot last Halloween and that town required me to have a $35 temporary license and when I painted at another town they required a $30 license good for one year. When I painted at a July 4th event in another town they required a $5 peddlers license for one time event or $35 license for one year. I got the $5 license. Painting at a private event may be different from painting at a public event or location because when I got another booking in the same town painting for a church's VBS, I went to get another $5 license and the lady said I didn't need it.