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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 · Sacramento

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

County government · Sacramento

Finance — Business License Unit

Business licensing

County instructions for changes in business owner, location or activityOfficial instructions

Transfer rules depend on the county license category. Contact the Business License Unit before changing the owner, premises or type of business; a simple account update may not be sufficient.

Service area: Changes to county business licenses within the Sacramento County licensing jurisdiction. Area details & sources

Source checked October 16, 2026

Sacramento County · Sacramento — business licensing questions (opens in a new tab)

Reviewed business licensing instructions

General Business Licenses and Tobacco Retailer Licenses may not be transferred to another person, location or type of business. Special Business Licenses and Employee Permits may not be transferred to another person or type of business, but the business location may change.

Saved evidence: 6d388bb73f4e8a6b · Agent source review

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