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 Shafter”

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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.

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

County government · Kern

Economic Development — business permit guidance

Business licensing requirements and referrals depend on the business activity and its location. Read the specific service scope before applying.

Find county and municipal business permit requirementsOfficial instructions

Use the official Economic Development guide to find activity-specific building, environmental health, fire and other permit resources. The page does not establish a general county license requirement or exemption.

Source checked October 16, 2026

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

Reviewed business licensing instructions

Kern County requires some businesses to obtain permits to conduct their operations. These requirements vary based on location, type of service provided and whether construction is involved.

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