Do you plan to open a business in Davis, California?
In the city of Davis, it is required that you license your business. Businesses in Davis are separated into five categories:
- Group I businesses may include service stations, grocery stores, auto and motorcycle dealers, etc.
- Group II businesses may include retail stores, residential leasing (2 or more units), artists, finance, ambulance services, trade schools, etc.
- Group III businesses includes contractors, handy-persons, equipment leasing, property management etc.
- Group IV includes professions including doctors, attorneys, therapists, massage therapists, etc.
- Miscellaneous Tax Group would include businesses such as transportation and trucking, dance halls, concessions and/or rides for children, Christmas tree and card sales, bankrupt closeout sales, craft sales, etc.
For a complete list of all businesses in these five categories, you can visit the City of Davis website, or contact the Finance Department at (530) 757-5651.
Do you need zoning approval for your business?
Your place of business, whether home or commercial, must meet zone requirements to operate in the City of Davis. Zoning requirements dictate which types of businesses are permitted in certain areas. Being zone approved is one of the first and important steps in starting a new business, or in relocating an existing business. Your entire business success is hinged on being able to meet zone approval. If you have entered into a lease or purchase agreement on a property that is not within the correct zone will result in not being able to use the property for your proposed business, so it is important to check with the Community Development Department before signing any property contracts. To contact the City of Davis Community Development Department to discuss your business proposal and zone requirements, please call (530) 757-5610.
How do you apply for your business license in Davis?
You can print your business license application off on the City of Davis website or you can visit the Finance Department at 23 Russell Boulevard to request one in person. Once you have your application, it will need to be fully and accurately completed to the best of your knowledge. This application becomes public record and your Davis license may be revoked or denied if the information you provide is not accurate.
On the application you will be asked to submit the name of your business and the physical address of your business. A PO box is not acceptable except as a mailing address. You should also submit your phone number as part of your contact information. There is space provided to provide a description of your business activities. You must state the type of business ownership, whether you are the sole owner, part of a corporation or partnership, a Limited Liability Corporation or a Limited Liability Partnership.
If you are part of a corporation, you will need to supply the agent of service and their contact information. There are spaces to provide additional permits or license numbers if they are applicable to your business. You will need to give a number of employees including owners that you plan to employ and whether they will be full or part time employees. Your opening date or estimated opening date are required as well as additional owners’ names and contact information.
Do you plan to operate your Davis business from home?
If you are planning to operate a Davis business from your place of residence, you will need to apply for a Home Occupation permit from the City of Davis. Operating a business from home does not exclude you from needing a business license, and you are required to comply with regulations associated with home occupation. These regulations include not creating any excess traffic, whether foot or vehicular, not employing employees from outside of your resident family, a percentage restriction on the amount of floor space dedicated to your business, no storage of material, goods, supplies or equipment related to your Davis home occupation outside of the home, and many other requirements. You will be responsible for familiarizing yourself and complying with these regulations, which can be found on the Davis Home Occupation Permit application on the City of Davis website.
What fees are associated with obtaining your Davis business license?
Your business license fee will be calculated based on the group that your business falls into and your gross receipts bracket. To find out your exact fees, you will need to contact the City’s Finance and Administrative Department at (530) 757-5651. They will be able to answer questions regarding fees and taxes.
Will you need additional Davis permits or licenses?
If your business activities include handling foods you will need a Health Department Permit. If you plan to serve alcohol, you will need to contact the Alcoholic Beverage Control board at (916) 227-2002. You may need approval by the Police Department or a fire and safety inspection of your property. There are many permits that may be needed depending on the type of business you plan to conduct. This list is available at the City of Davis website under the Business Agency section. It is your responsibility to file for any additional permits or licenses before you open your doors for business or you could risk losing your business license or being denied licensure.
Do you need additional information?
If you have more questions or want to contact the Finance Department, you can reach them via telephone at (530) 757-5651. You can also visit them in person at 23 Russell Boulevard, Davis, California 95616. Office hours are Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
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