Apply For A Business License Fresno, California
Are you planning to start a business in Fresno, California?
If you are planning to open a business in Fresno, CA, you will need to apply for a Fresno business license and a Fresno tax certificate. You can either print the application from the City of Fresno website or you can request one in person at the Finance Department in City Hall at 2600 Fresno Street, room 1096. The Finance Department can be reached by phone at (559) 621-6880. Their hours of operation are 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday.
What information will you need to provide on the Fresno business license and Fresno tax certificate application?
The Fresno business license and Fresno tax certificate application is a short one-page application that can be filled out online and then printed. It asks for your business name, the date you opened your business, and the physical location of your business. Your business contact information, including your mailing address, phone, and email address need to be submitted as well. If you do not own your business property, you will need to provide the contact information of your landlord, including phone number and mailing address. You are asked to provide a description of your business activities and the type of business you are providing, whether service, wholesale, retail, etc. You need to give ownership type information, meaning whether you are the sole proprietor, in a partnership, part of a corporation, LLC, or a trust. Depending on the type of ownership or your business, you may need to procure additional licenses and permits, at the local, state and federal level. There is important information on the reverse side (or second page online) of your application outlining some additional regulations, instructions on receiving licenses for separate business locations, if you are moving your place of business etc. There is information how taxes and fees will be calculated and collected.
Are there other Fresno licenses or Fresno permits that will be needed?
Depending on the nature of your Fresno business, you may need additional Fresno licenses. For instance, if you plan to have amusement or game machines at your Fresno business location, you will need to fill out an application for a permit. If you are planning to open a pool hall, there is a separate application for that. There may be any number of permits including health, police, and fire department permits that may need to be in place before your business opens, so it will be your responsibility to contact the Finance Department and discuss your business plans with them to determine what additional permits and/or licenses may be required. They can be reached at (559) 621-6880.
What about zoning regulations?
It is important that you contact the Planning and Development Department before you sign any lease or enter into any type of real estate contract on any property within the city to determine if your property is zoned for business. You can contact the Planning and Development department by phone at (599) 621-8277.
Are you planning to use your home as a Fresno business location?
You are permitted to use your home as a business location if you are willing to comply with the regulations and rules that have been set by the Planning and Development Department. Section 12-105-H-7 of the Fresno Municipal Code outlines several regulations and prohibitions that may be associated with running a business out of your home. Familiarize yourself with these regulations and be certain you are in compliance so that you do not risk losing your home business license. If you choose to run a home daycare or child care service from your home, and plan to have six or fewer children (including your own children) you won’t need to obtain any special permits or licenses. If there will be more than six children, including your own children, you will need to contact the Planning and Development Department for a conditional use permit. They can be reached at (599) 621-8277.
Do you need more information?
If you have additional questions or need more information, you can visit the City of Fresno website, go in person to City Hall at 2600 Fresno Street, room 1096, or call (559) 621-6880. The Planning and Development Department is located at City Hall, 2600 Fresno Street, room 3043. You can also contact them by phone at (599) 621-8277.
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This site is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial or tax advise. The information on this site should not be relied upon as an official source of information and should be independently verified.