Official local service finder

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 · Reviewed local guides · “City of Santa Clara”

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

County government · Santa Clara

County Clerk-Recorder

Business license guidance

Clerk-Recorder business-license referralOfficial instructions

The Clerk-Recorder does not issue business licenses and directs readers to the city or town where the business is located. Unincorporated-area and activity-specific requirements still need separate confirmation.

Source checked October 16, 2026

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

Reviewed business licensing instructions

The Clerk-Recorder's Office does not issue business licenses. For business licensing information, please contact the city or town government office where your business is located.

Saved evidence: 8d4783af0be7954a · Agent source review

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