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Business licenses & tax certificates in California

Check the local authority, requirements, applications, renewal, changes and public license searches for your business.

Check or apply for a business license Renew a business license Close or update a business license Look up a business license Register a business for stormwater compliance

Before you start · 4 things to check

Start with where your business is located and where it will operate. A county license may apply only to unincorporated areas or specific activities; cities can have their own requirements.
Some county offices provide guidance or referrals and do not issue a general business license. Read the entry before choosing an application.
A business license or tax certificate, an FBN/DBA filing, business entity registration and a professional license serve different purposes. Zoning, health and other activity permits may also apply. Business stormwater registration is a separate local programme where required.
Check the license period, renewal date and rules for changes in ownership or location. A renewal may not cover a move or a new owner. Fees and application steps depend on the license category.

4 guides with reviewed service links · Santa Barbara

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County government · Santa Barbara

Tax Collector

Business licensing

County business-license activities and unincorporated-area scopeOfficial instructions

The county Tax Collector describes licences for covered businesses in unincorporated areas, including general business, massage, taxis and vending machines. Confirm the activity and other approvals required.

Service area: Covered business activity in unincorporated Santa Barbara County; incorporated-city licensing remains separate. Area details & sources

Source checked October 16, 2026

Santa Barbara County official website · Santa Barbara County — business licensing discovery (opens in a new tab)

Reviewed business licensing instructions

The Tax Collector's Office licenses businesses located in the unincorporated areas of Santa Barbara County.

Saved evidence: afcf5513c2f79346 · Agent source review

Apply in person for a county business licenseOfficial instructions

Submit in person. Staff assist with the application and collect a non-refundable application fee; the amount and category-specific requirements need confirmation.

Service area: County in-person licensing for the stated unincorporated-area programme, not city licensing. Area details & sources

Source checked October 16, 2026

Santa Barbara County official website · Santa Barbara County — business licensing discovery (opens in a new tab)

Reviewed business licensing instructions