California · find a service

Look up a business license in California

Use an official business license directory or account lookup. Check the type and area of license covered.

In California, 55 city governments and 4 county departments publish 59 official links for this service, 2 of them online. Reviewed requirements cover availability notices (1). 21 counties have a page for it below.

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.

2 guides with reviewed service links · Santa Cruz

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Highlighted counties have a reviewed service guide matching this selection. An agency may serve only a city or part of a county.

California58 counties

County directory Reviewed service guides available

Map for browsing; agency service areas may differ.

Map source

U.S. Census boundaries via U.S. Atlas · 2017 edition, simplified for display.

City government · Santa Cruz

City of Santa Cruz — Business licensing information

City of Santa Cruz

Business license directory or lookup — City of Santa CruzOfficial instructions

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

Service area: City of Santa Cruz Area details & sources

Source checked October 28, 2026

Santa Cruz municipal government · Santa Cruz — business licensing discovery (opens in a new tab)

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

Saved evidence: 0bd1f1f74bb97fb6 · Agent source review

Full guide, contact details & sources →

City government · Santa Cruz

City of Scotts Valley — Business licensing information

City of Scotts Valley

Business license directory or lookup — City of Scotts ValleyOfficial instructions

The official source lists “Click here to search for a Business License”. Follow the issuing provider's instructions for requirements and availability.

Service area: City of Scotts Valley Area details & sources

Source checked October 28, 2026

Scotts Valley municipal government · Scotts Valley — business licensing discovery (opens in a new tab)

Exact named official link (entrance only; linked contents not reviewed)

Click here to search for a Business License

Saved evidence: f0119c36370b1ba7 · Agent source review

Full guide, contact details & sources →

Look up a business license in California

City of Santa Cruz — Business licensing information

City of Scotts Valley — Business licensing information

Look up a business license by county