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Close or update a business license

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

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 · Merced

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

County government · Merced

Community & Economic Development — business licensing

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

Update or close a license when business information changesOfficial online service

Report changes through the official county portal. Ownership or address changes may require closure and a new license; check with licensing staff.

Service area: Changes to county licenses for businesses located or operating in unincorporated Merced County. Area details & sources

Source checked October 16, 2026

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

Reviewed business licensing instructions

If there have been changes to your business license information that you need to update you may do so before it is time to renew. Please keep in mind that since Merced County Business Licenses are non-transferrable (Merced County Code Section 6.02.140), some changes may require the closure of your current business license and a new business license will be issued.

Saved evidence: d98ba61162fded0d · Agent source review

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