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.
Contact Business Services for a new county license. Existing county-license renewals and activity-specific permits have separate instructions; incorporated-city licensing belongs to the appropriate city.
New Business Licenses are handled by the Business Services Division of the Treasurer Tax Collector Department, located on the 5th floor at 1010 10th St., Suite 5700, Modesto, CA 95354.
The County Tax Collector issues business license renewals for locations outside of city limits. For licenses within city limits, please contact the appropriate city.
The City has partnered with HdL Companies to provide services for the Business License program beginning August 25, 2025. Please see below for additional information relating to obtaining and renewing your business license through the online portal.
Visible topic-specific information on the official page
The City has partnered with HdL Companies to provide services for the Business License program beginning August 25, 2025. Please see below for additional information relating to obtaining and renewing your business license through the online portal.
The official source lists “Business License Applications and Agreements”. Follow the issuing provider's instructions for requirements and availability.
The official source lists “What attachments do I provide when renewing my business license?”. Follow the issuing provider's instructions for requirements and availability.
On September 19, 2012 Governor Brown signed into law SB 1186 which adds a state fee of $1 on any applicant for a local business license or renewal. The purpose is to increase disability access and compliance with construction-related accessibility requirements and to develop educational resources for businesses in order to facilitate compliance with federal and state disability laws, as specified. This fee is a state-mandated fee and cannot be waived for any business. This fee applies to all businesses, including home occupations, any outside company doing business within the city limits, and delivery vehicles. Effective January 1, 2018, this fee will increase from $1 to $4, per application and renewal.
Visible topic-specific information on the official page
On September 19, 2012 Governor Brown signed into law SB 1186 which adds a state fee of $1 on any applicant for a local business license or renewal. The purpose is to increase disability access and compliance with construction-related accessibility requirements and to develop educational resources for businesses in order to facilitate compliance with federal and state disability laws, as specified. This fee is a state-mandated fee and cannot be waived for any business. This fee applies to all businesses, including home occupations, any outside company doing business within the city limits, and delivery vehicles. Effective January 1, 2018, this fee will increase from $1 to $4, per application and renewal.