California · find a service

Close or update a business license in California

Find instructions for closing a license or reporting ownership, address or business changes.

In California, 43 city governments and 14 county departments publish 60 official links for this service, 12 of them online. Reviewed requirements cover documents (16), eligibility (6), payment methods (1) and languages (1). 28 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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California58 counties

County directory Reviewed service guides available

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

City government · Santa Cruz

City of Capitola — Business licensing information

City of Capitola

Close or update a business license — City of CapitolaOfficial instructions

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

Service area: City of Capitola Area details & sources

Source checked October 28, 2026

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

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