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Business licenses & tax certificates

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

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.

1 guide with reviewed service links · Santa Cruz · “City of Watsonville”

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County government · Santa Cruz

County Clerk

Business license guidance

County business-license guidance and city/permit referralsOfficial instructions

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.

Source checked October 16, 2026

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

PDF page 1

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

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