How do I apply for a business license in Burbank, California?
Applying for a business license in Burbank can be a little confusing. This page will hopefully make it as clear as possible. There are three different types of licenses/permits for business in Burbank. However, not all businesses need all three of them. Depending on the type of business you operate you may need all three, or just two, or simply one. The following sections will explain the differences between the three different permits/licenses and help you determine which of them you will need.
The Burbank Business Permit
Every business that operates in the City of Burbank needs to have a Burbank Business Permit. This is the one registration that all businesses require, no matter what type of business you operate. This permit basically registers the business in the City of Burbank. There is a registration fee required of $15 or $30. When the Burbank Business Permit is issued it is usually issued with the Business Tax Certificate (discussed below) as a stamp on the Burbank Business Tax Certificate.
The Burbank Business Tax
This registration is required of most businesses as well in order for the City to collect tax revenue for the general fund. There is a registration fee of $30.00 that is required, plus payment of the business tax, which varies by type of business. The way the business tax is calculated is usually a flat tax, plus a fee paid per employee each year. You can determine if you need to get a business tax registration and what the applicable fees will be by contacting the City. Once registered your business will receive a Burbank Business Tax Certificate, which is required to be posted at the business location.
The Burbank Business License
The business license is the one registration that, unlike in most cities, is not required unless your business falls within certain categories of businesses that the city has deemed necessary to regulate more closely. There are over 50 types of business licenses that depend on the business you operate. The types of businesses that require a business license are taxicabs, firearm sales, massage parlors, adult oriented businesses, street peddlers, etc. The fees for each type of license also vary be type of business. Burbank Business License certificates will be issued in most cases by the licensing division. For specific application requirements regarding whether your business falls within one of the categories of businesses requiring a license, contact the city licensing division or you can see Title 3 of the Municipal Code.
Burbank Zoning Approval
Before applying for a Burbank business license, permit, or tax certificate you should determine where your business is located and whether it is in the proper zone. It is recommended that proper zoning be determined before purchasing or leasing any space for your business to make sure it will be approved as part of the business licensing/permitting process.
What if I am running a business out of my home?
If you run a business out of your home you'll need to have the proper business licenses/permits, etc. A home occupation permit will be required for a home-based business. Before doing so, however, you should look into whether the type of business you are going to run can in fact be run out of your home. Certain types of Burbank businesses are not allowed in residentially zoned areas.
Pursuant to the City of Burbank Municipal Code Section 10-1-671, home occupation businesses will be "allowed if the business use is clearly an office use, artistic use or music lessons and is incidental and secondary to the use of the dwelling. In addition, the business use must be compatible with the surrounding residential uses. No home occupation shall be conducted that constitutes or causes an objectionable use of residential property due to potential noise, glare, dust, vibration, increased pedestrian or vehicular traffic, or any other condition that interferes with the general welfare of the surrounding residential area." For more information, you can contact the City of Burbank or review Division 11 of the Municipal Code.
Where do I apply for business permits and licenses in Burbank?
You can contact the City of Burbank, License and Code Service Division. It is located at Community Services Building 150 N. Third Street, First Floor. The phone number is (818) 238-5280. The office is open Monday through Friday, from 8:00a.m. to 12:00p.m. and 1:00p.m. to 4:00p.m. You may also visit the City of Burbank website.
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