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.
The Clerk’s business-information sheet distinguishes the four cities from the unincorporated county. Check activity permits and zoning separately; cannabis licensing is a distinct programme.
Businesses located in or conducting a portion of their business within any of the four (4) cities in Santa Cruz County should contact that city regarding the requirements for a business license. The County of Santa Cruz does not require a business license within the unincorporated area of the county
Please note: Business License Renewal Notices are sent as a courtesy only. Business licenses are valid for the calendar year only. All business licenses expire on December 31st. Business license tax for renewals must be paid by January 15th regardless of whether a renewal notice is received by the business owner. Renewal payments received (or postmarked) after the January 15th due date will be assessed an administrative late fee and penalty.
Visible topic-specific information on the official page
Please note: Business License Renewal Notices are sent as a courtesy only. Business licenses are valid for the calendar year only. All business licenses expire on December 31st. Business license tax for renewals must be paid by January 15th regardless of whether a renewal notice is received by the business owner. Renewal payments received (or postmarked) after the January 15th due date will be assessed an administrative late fee and penalty.
The official source lists “Click here for the Business License Discontinuance Form”. Follow the issuing provider's instructions for requirements and availability.
In addition to the basic business license tax, applicants for a new license are charged a $35 registration fee and a $4 fee mandated by the State of California for accessibility compliance through AB 1379. Annual business license renewals are charged the business license tax, a renewal fee of $16, and the $4 state-mandated fee. These fees are authorized by Council Resolution NS-29,343(PDF, 87KB) and, except for the accessibility compliance fee, will be adjusted every January 1 for increases in the Consumer Price Index. Registration, renewal, and state-mandated fees are not prorated and not refundable.
Visible topic-specific information on the official page
In addition to the basic business license tax, applicants for a new license are charged a $35 registration fee and a $4 fee mandated by the State of California for accessibility compliance through AB 1379. Annual business license renewals are charged the business license tax, a renewal fee of $16, and the $4 state-mandated fee. These fees are authorized by Council Resolution NS-29,343(PDF, 87KB) and, except for the accessibility compliance fee, will be adjusted every January 1 for increases in the Consumer Price Index. Registration, renewal, and state-mandated fees are not prorated and not refundable.
Check Status or Search Business License Database - Our Search Feature is Currently Unavailable. For Status, Please call (831)420-5070 or email revenue@santacruzca.gov
Visible topic-specific information on the official page
Check Status or Search Business License Database - Our Search Feature is Currently Unavailable. For Status, Please call (831)420-5070 or email revenue@santacruzca.gov
The official source lists “Click here for How to Renew a Business License”. Follow the issuing provider's instructions for requirements and availability.