Looking to open a business in Cupertino?
You will need to obtain a business license to run your business in Cupertino. You will also need to have your business approved for the zone in which it falls, especially if it is an after-hours establishment, serves alcohol, or is located within a certain proximity of a residential area. If you are not sure of your zone, please contact the Community Development Department at (408) 777-3308.
Where can you obtain an application for a Cupertino business license?
You can contact the Finance Department at City Hall at (408) 777-3221. You can download and print one off or apply online at the City of Cupertino website, or you can visit City Hall at 10300 Torre Avenue to request one in person. You are required to complete your application fully and accurately in order for your business to receive licensure. Your application will have several questions pertaining to your business, including the name and location of your Cupertino business and all contact information.
You will need to describe your business activities, your hours of operation, and number of employees you plan to hire. The application has a space to declare the legal status of your business, meaning whether you are a sole proprietor, part of a partnership or part of a larger corporation. There are spaces dealing with state and federal information that may or may not be applicable to your Cupertino business. You can contact the IRS at (800) 820-1040 for information concerning your Federal Tax ID number, and you can contact the State Board of Equalization for information regarding State Employer ID number and State Board of Equalization Tax numbers at (800) 400-7115. You will need to provide contact information and driver’s license numbers for yourself and any additional owners.
Do you plan to have a Cupertino home-based business?
If your business is going to operate from your home, you will need to fill out the Home Business Questionnaire in addition to your business license application. The home business questionnaire is located on the back of the business license application and is a series of yes or no questions about your business activities. You will still need to have zone approval for a home-based business. Please note that daycare licensing must be obtained from the State of California Community Care Licensing at 2580 N. First Street Ste 300, San Jose, CA 95131. They can be reached by phone at (408) 324-2148. If you provide care to eight or more children, including your own, you will need to procure a Use Permit from the Community Development Department at City Hall. You can call them at (408) 777-3308.
What fees are associated with your Cupertino business license?
Your fees will be determined by the business that you plan to operate. For instance, to open a massage-related business, you can expect to pay between $289.00 and $319.00 with renewals costing $60.00. These fees will include fingerprinting and background checks. For a Small Income Business License, your fee may be $65.00. There are additional fees for separate permits and licenses and inspections. You can contact the Finance Division to learn more and find what fees you will be expected to pay for your business license. They can be reached via telephone at (408) 777-3221.
Will you need additional Cupertino permits or licenses?
In some cases, your business will need to obtain additional permits to operate in the city of Cupertino. If you plan to handle food, run a public pool or a spa or handling toxic chemicals, you will need to have a health permit from the County Health Department. They can be reached by phone at (408) 918-3400. If you are planning to serve alcohol, you will need to contact the State Alcohol Beverage Control Board at (408) 277-1200. Please note that it may take up to 90 days to be issued a ABC license, so you will need to plan ahead to have your license by the day you begin selling or serving alcohol.
There are many other businesses that may require a separate permit or license. It is important that you have these licenses or permits and it will be your responsibility to obtain them. If you are not sure if you will need additional permits or licenses, you should contact the City of Cupertino at (408) 777-3221 to discuss your proposed business and find out.
Who should you contact with further questions or concerns?
If you have more questions or want to speak with someone concerning licensing your business, you should contact the City of Cupertino at (408) 777-3221. You can also go in person to 10300 Torre Avenue, Cupertino, CA 95014 or you visit the city website.
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