Fremont, CA Business License Guide

Last updated: September 2025

This is a practical, no‑fluff guide to getting legally set up to do business in Fremont, CA. It prioritizes what you need to do first, gives direct official links, and flags real-world issues that trip people up.

Important: City and state rules change. Always confirm details using the official links provided. See the About This Guide and Disclaimer at the end.

Quick help (start here)

• Apply or renew your Fremont Business Tax Certificate (business license) online: Fremont Business Tax – Official HdL Portal — application, renewal, and tax lookup.
• Check zoning and permits for your address: Fremont Accela Citizen Access Portal — planning, building, fire permits, and application status.
• Need a California seller’s permit (sales tax)? Register with the state: CDTFA Permits & Licenses | Phone: 1-800-400-7115.
• Register your business entity with the state: bizfile Online – California Secretary of State — form LLCs, corporations; file statements of information.
• File/renew a Fictitious Business Name (DBA) in Alameda County: Alameda County Clerk-Recorder – FBN | Phone: (510) 272-6362.
• Get a federal EIN (free): IRS – Apply for an EIN Online | IRS Business Line: 1-800-829-4933.
• Hiring employees? Register for California payroll taxes: EDD e-Services for Business | EDD Payroll Tax Assistance: 1-888-745-3886.
• Food, body art, pools, hazardous materials: Alameda County Environmental Health – Permits | Main line: (510) 567-6700.
• One-stop permit lookup by business type: CalGOLD – California Permit Assistance — find all required permits by location and industry.

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What a “business license” means in Fremont: the essentials

The City of Fremont issues a Business Tax Certificate (most people call it the business license). It’s required for almost every business activity in city limits—including home-based businesses, independent contractors, and out-of-city firms doing work in Fremont.

• Official portal to apply/renew: Fremont Business Tax – Official HdL Portal
• Fremont also requires zoning compliance, building/fire sign-offs for certain uses, and other permits depending on your industry. That’s handled through the city’s Accela portal: Fremont Accela Citizen Access
• State layers still apply (for example: seller’s permit for retail, professional licenses, payroll taxes).

If you’re not sure what you need, run your business type and Fremont address through CalGOLD: CalGOLD – California Permit Assistance.

Who needs a Fremont Business Tax Certificate?

Table: Common scenarios

Source: See “Do I Need a Business License?” and apply via Fremont Business Tax – Official HdL Portal. Always confirm with the city based on your activity.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Use CalGOLD to confirm required permits and agencies.
• Ask specific zoning/use questions via Fremont Accela Citizen Access; submit an inquiry so staff can review your address and proposed use.

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The fastest path: do these steps in order

Most important action: make sure your location and use type are allowed before you apply for the city license.

• Verify zoning/use for your exact address: Fremont Accela Citizen Access. If your use is not allowed “by right,” you may need a home occupation permit, conditional use permit, or tenant improvement permits first.
• Register the business entity (if forming an LLC or corporation) with the State of California: bizfile Online (CA SOS).
• Get your federal EIN (free): IRS EIN Online | Phone: 1-800-829-4933.
• Register for state tax accounts you need (for example, seller’s permit, employer payroll taxes): CDTFA Permits & Licenses | 1-800-400-7115 and EDD e-Services for Business | 1-888-745-3886.
• File a Fictitious Business Name (DBA) if using a trade name: Alameda County Clerk-Recorder – FBN | (510) 272-6362.
• Apply for your Fremont Business Tax Certificate with the documents above ready: Fremont Business Tax – Official HdL Portal.
• Add industry permits (health, building, fire, signage, alcohol, tobacco) as needed through the relevant agencies: Alameda County Environmental Health, Fremont Accela Citizen Access, California ABC Licensing.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Book free, confidential help with the NorCal SBDC (Alameda County): NorCal SBDC – Alameda County. They can review your situation and paperwork and help you sequence steps.
• For permit routing questions, start a pre-application inquiry in Fremont Accela Citizen Access so city staff can flag issues early.

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Documents you’ll typically need

Bring or upload clean copies. The city or state may ask for more depending on your industry.

• Proof of entity and ownership (Articles, Operating Agreement, Statement of Information).
• Federal EIN letter (SS-4 confirmation) or SSN for sole proprietors.
• California seller’s permit (if selling taxable goods): CDTFA Seller’s Permit | 1-800-400-7115.
• Fictitious Business Name filing (if using a DBA): Alameda County FBN | (510) 272-6362.
• Lease or property owner authorization (if not the owner) and site plan if requested.
• Home Occupation Permit approval (for home-based businesses that require it): Fremont Accela Citizen Access.
• Professional/State licenses (e.g., CSLB for contractors; DCA boards for cosmetology, medical, etc.): CSLB Licensing | CSLB Phone: 1-800-321-2752.
• For food/body art/pools/hazmat: Health permits and plans via Alameda County Environmental Health – Permits | (510) 567-6700.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Upload what you have and use the notes/comments fields in the HdL or Accela portals to explain; staff often advise what’s missing.
• SBDC advisors can check your packet: NorCal SBDC – Alameda County.

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How Fremont’s Business Tax (License) works

Fremont’s “license” is a Business Tax Certificate. The tax is based on your business activity (for example, gross receipts, square footage, employees, or other local measures depending on category). The official calculator and application are in the HdL portal.

• Apply/renew/pay: Fremont Business Tax – Official HdL Portal
• The portal will compute what you owe based on your answers and category.
• Renewals are typically annual. Confirm the renewal due date shown in your account.

Because Fremont updated its business tax structure in recent years, use the city’s calculator for current amounts and categories:

• Official tax lookup and estimator: Fremont Business Tax – Official HdL Portal.

For questions about business tax rates, categories, and exemptions, use the Help/Contact in the HdL portal. You can also search for “Business Tax” at City of Fremont – Official Site to find the Business Tax page and the current ordinance and fee schedule.

Reality check:

• Don’t assume your fee is the same as neighboring cities. Each city sets its own structure.
• If you change business models (for example, add retail to a service location), your category and rate can change.
• Missing the renewal deadline often adds penalties. Check the date shown in your HdL account and plan ahead.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If the calculator seems off, submit your application and use the notes to ask for a review, or use the portal’s contact function.
• If cash flow is tight, pay attention to the renewal timing and ask about any available payment arrangements before you fall late.

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Zoning, building, fire, and signage: don’t skip this

Most important action: confirm your use is allowed at your address before you sign a lease or open doors.

• Zoning and use checks, home occupation, minor/conditional use permits, tenant improvements, sign permits, and inspections are handled through the city’s permit portal: Fremont Accela Citizen Access.
• If you’re doing any construction, electrical, plumbing, new hood systems, or changing occupancy type, expect building permits and possibly fire permits first.
• Signage almost always requires approval—even window or temporary signs.
• Food-related businesses will also coordinate with county environmental health (see below).

Practical tips:

• Upload a simple floor plan and a short description of your operations in your Accela file. It helps staff route your case to the right reviewers.
• Ask early if a Certificate of Occupancy or fire inspection is needed for your use.
• Plan time for permit reviews; tenant improvements often take longer than expected.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Start a pre-application in Fremont Accela Citizen Access describing your proposed use. Staff will comment and tell you the path.
• If you hit permitting roadblocks, the SBDC can help with strategy and timelines: NorCal SBDC – Alameda County.

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Health, food, body art, pools, and hazardous materials (County)

Food facilities, mobile food, body art, public pools, and hazardous materials/waste are regulated by Alameda County Environmental Health.

• Permits and plans: Alameda County Environmental Health – Permits | Main line: (510) 567-6700
• Mobile food facility or commissary requirements: see Food section on the same page.
• Hazardous materials business plan (HMBP) and CUPA programs: details are linked from the Environmental Health site.

Fees vary by facility type and services. Use the county permit pages and contact the department for current amounts.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you’re unsure which category fits your operation, call (510) 567-6700 and ask for Permit Assistance. They’ll help you pick the right application.
• If a plan check is delayed, ask whether your submittal is complete; incomplete submittals often stall.

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California state tax accounts you might need (with real amounts)

This section covers state-level money you should plan for. Verify your obligation with the official sources below.

Franchise Tax Board (FTB) – Minimum annual taxes and LLC fee

• LLCs, LPs, and LLPs doing business in California owe a minimum annual tax of $800 each year. Source: FTB – Annual tax for LLCs, LPs & LLPs.
• LLCs with California-sourced total income may also owe an LLC Fee (Form 3536) based on total income from all sources derived from or attributable to California. Current statutory tiers (verify each year):
  • $0 if ≤ $250,000
  • $900 for $250,000–$499,999
  • $2,500 for $500,000–$999,999
  • $6,000 for $1,000,000–$4,999,999
  • $11,790 for ≥ $5,000,000

  Source: FTB – LLC fee (Form 3536) and FTB LLC fee information.

• Due dates (calendar-year taxpayers, verify if fiscal year): The annual LLC tax ($800) is due by the 15th day of the 4th month of your taxable year (commonly April 15). The LLC fee (Form 3536) estimated payment is also due by the 15th day of the 6th month (commonly June 15). Sources: FTB – LLCs: due dates.
• Corporations (C and S) are generally subject to the $800 minimum franchise tax annually (with a first-year exemption for corporations; verify applicability to your facts). C corporation tax rate and S corporation 1.5% rate apply; see: FTB – Business entity tax rates & minimum tax.

If you have questions, call FTB: 1-800-852-5711 (verify menu options). Source: FTB – Contact us.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If cash is tight, talk to a CPA about estimated payments and penalty relief.
• If you formed but won’t operate, consult the FTB pages about “doing business” standards and proper cancellation to stop the $800 from accruing.

California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA) – Sales and use tax

If you sell or lease taxable goods in California (including most retail), you likely need a seller’s permit.

• Apply (free): CDTFA – Permits & Licenses | Phone: 1-800-400-7115.
• Some businesses may be asked for a security deposit; CDTFA explains when and how it’s determined.
• Sales tax rates vary by location and change over time. Look up the current rate by address: CDTFA – Find a Sales and Use Tax Rate by Address.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you’re selling both taxable and exempt items, set up your POS properly and keep exemption support.
• If you sell online, read CDTFA’s marketplace and district tax rules to avoid under-collecting.

California Employment Development Department (EDD) – Payroll taxes

If you have employees, register with EDD:

• Register: EDD e-Services for Business | Employer assistance: 1-888-745-3886.
• EDD covers Unemployment Insurance (UI), Employment Training Tax (ETT), State Disability Insurance (SDI), and California Personal Income Tax (PIT) withholding. Rates and wage bases change annually; verify current numbers: EDD – Rates and Withholding Schedules.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If payroll feels overwhelming, start with a reputable payroll provider and have them set up your accounts.
• If you misclassified workers, consult EDD’s guidance on AB 5 and correct before audits: EDD – Employment Status.

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Fremont timelines: what to expect

Exact timelines depend on your use, completeness of submittals, and whether you need building/health/fire permits. The business tax certificate process is often quick if zoning is straightforward and your documents are clean.

• New Business Tax Certificate without additional permits: the HdL portal processes applications and tax calculations online; approvals may require confirmation of zoning/use.
• If you need building/fire/health approvals, timelines are driven by plan checks and inspections. Submit early via Fremont Accela Citizen Access.
• Renewals: the portal shows your renewal window and due date. Set calendar reminders well in advance.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Use the Accela portal to track status and ask questions in the record’s activity/comments.
• If you’re against a lease deadline, ask staff what’s needed to issue a temporary or conditional approval (if applicable).

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Table: Agency checklist and where to do it

Sources: Linked official pages above.

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Table: California business entity taxes and fees (state-level)

Always verify amounts/dates on the FTB pages before you pay.

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Table: Industry triggers and permits

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Table: Cost planning checklist (typical line items to budget)

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Home-based businesses in Fremont

Most important action: confirm your home-based use is allowed and whether a Home Occupation Permit is needed.

• Start by checking zoning/home occupation requirements through Fremont Accela Citizen Access.
• Common limits include: no customer traffic above certain levels, no outdoor storage, noise/odor limits, limited employees on-site, parking rules.
• You still need a City Business Tax Certificate for a home-based business: Fremont Business Tax – HdL Portal.
• Cottage Food Operators (home-based food) require state registration/class and local home occupation compliance. See: CDPH – Cottage Food Operation.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If your planned activity isn’t allowed in your zone, ask planning staff whether a conditional use permit is possible or if a co-working/commercial kitchen rental is a better fit.
• Cottage food not feasible? Consider a shared commercial kitchen in Alameda County; health permits are easier at a commercial commissary.

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Hiring and wage rules to know

• Register with EDD before paying wages: EDD e-Services for Business | 1-888-745-3886.
• California minimum wage and local wage ordinances change. Confirm current state and Fremont/local rates and any industry-specific rates (fast food, health care) before running payroll: CA DIR – Minimum Wage.
• Workers’ compensation insurance is required for employees (no exceptions). Get quotes and post proof.
• If using contractors, review AB 5/ABC test carefully. Misclassification is expensive. See: EDD – Employment Status.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you can’t decipher wage rules, call the DIR or use a payroll provider that updates rates automatically.
• If you’re unsure about employee vs. contractor, schedule a consult with an employment attorney or SBDC advisor.

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Real-world examples (Fremont-focused)

Example 1: Home-based UX consultant in North Fremont

• Confirms home occupation rules in Accela. No client visits, all remote = allowed.
• Forms an LLC via bizfile Online, gets an EIN (free via IRS), registers for the $800 annual LLC tax with FTB.
• Applies for City Business Tax Certificate via HdL. No seller’s permit needed; no building permits. Operates legally from home.

Example 2: Contractor headquartered in Pleasanton, taking jobs in Fremont

• Already licensed with CSLB. Registers in the Fremont HdL portal for a Business Tax Certificate for out-of-city contractors performing work in Fremont.
• Uses Accela for each job’s building permits and inspections.
• Collects and pays the Fremont business tax; tracks expiration to avoid penalties.

Example 3: New coffee shop near Irvington

• Before signing lease, uploads a concept and floor plan in Accela to confirm use and required improvements (grease interceptor, hood, ADA upgrades).
• Submits food facility plans to ACDEH and coordinates plan checks.
• Gets a seller’s permit from CDTFA, applies for City Business Tax Certificate via HdL, and times inspections so final approvals line up with opening.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If your landlord is slow on tenant improvements, ask the city about phased approvals and get realistic construction timelines from your general contractor.
• If ACDEH plan check returns comments, schedule a quick call to walk through revisions; that often saves a round-trip.

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Common mistakes to avoid

• Applying for the Business Tax Certificate before checking if your use is allowed in your zone.
• Forgetting a DBA filing when your signage/branding uses a different name.
• Skipping a seller’s permit because “it’s mostly services”—then selling a few taxable items and getting flagged.
• Starting work in Fremont as an out-of-city contractor without a Fremont Business Tax Certificate.
• Under-estimating tenant improvement time and costs (plan check, inspections, ADA upgrades).
• Ignoring sign permits (including window and temporary signs).
• Missing FTB obligations—especially the $800 annual tax and, for LLCs, the LLC Fee.
• Misclassifying workers to avoid payroll taxes; AB 5 enforcement is active.
• Waiting until the last week to renew city business tax; late penalties add up.
• Not documenting home occupation rules (client traffic, noise, parking) in shared housing or HOA contexts.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you’ve already made a mistake, disclose and correct early. Agencies are more flexible when you come forward proactively.
• Ask the city or state about penalty relief options, payment plans, or voluntary disclosure programs where applicable.

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Renewal and ongoing compliance

Most important action: set a recurring calendar reminder for your City Business Tax renewal and any state filings.

• City Business Tax Certificate renewal: Log in to HdL. The portal shows your renewal cycle and due date. Pay before the deadline to avoid penalties.
• FTB annual obligations: $800 minimum tax for LLCs/LPs/LLPs; LLC Fee if applicable. Due by the 15th day of the 4th month (annual tax) and 15th day of the 6th month (LLC Fee est.). See FTB – LLC annual tax & fee.
• CDTFA sales/use tax returns: Filing frequency is assigned by CDTFA. File and pay by the assigned due dates. Look up your schedule and rates: CDTFA – File a Return.
• EDD payroll: Deposits and returns per your assigned schedule. Confirm current rates and wage bases: EDD – Rates and Withholding.
• Statement of Information (CA SOS): LLCs and corporations must file on schedule (initial and then periodic). File via bizfile Online.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you miss a deadline, file and pay ASAP to stop penalties/interest. For FTB, see penalty/interest info in your entity’s page. For CDTFA/EDD, request penalty relief if you have reasonable cause.
• If your business is closing, follow the formal steps (city cancellation, CDTFA closeout, FTB dissolution/cancellation) to stop new liabilities.

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“Is my business eligible?” rules, by topic

• Can you operate from home? Check Fremont’s home occupation rules via Accela. Typical limits: no significant customer traffic, no outside employees on-site (or limited), no outdoor storage.
• Can you run a food business from home? Cottage Food Operators are allowed in California with restrictions (specific foods only; labeling; training). See CDPH – Cottage Food.
• Selling taxable goods? Most retail needs a seller’s permit. Confirm product taxability (for example, hot food vs. cold food): CDTFA – Industry guides.
• Contractors? CSLB license is required for jobs $500 or more (labor and materials combined). Source: CSLB – Do I Need a License?.
• Alcohol? Check zoning first, then pursue an ABC license type appropriate for your business: California ABC – Licensing.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If your preferred location is not eligible, consider a different zone, a shared commercial facility, or modifying your operations.
• For borderline cases, ask the city for a zoning verification letter through Accela.

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Inclusivity, diversity, and accessibility resources (state and local)

These programs can help with certifications, contracting, funding, or technical help.

• Women-owned businesses: Get federal contracting eligibility via WOSB/EDWOSB certification and learn how it works: SBA – WOSB Program.
• Minority-owned suppliers: CPUC’s supplier diversity program includes a California certification path recognized by major utilities and some primes: CPUC – Supplier Diversity.
• Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE) and Small Business (SB) certification: Helps with California state contracting: CA DGS – Certification Programs.
• Disability-owned businesses: National certification available via Disability:IN; also check CPUC program for disabled-owned categories: Disability:IN – Certification.
• LGBTQ+ owned: National LGBT Chamber of Commerce certification is recognized by many corporate supplier programs: NGLCC – Certification.
• Immigrant-owned and language access: California agencies provide translation and multilingual support; try the language options on CDTFA, EDD, and FTB. For free advising with language support: NorCal SBDC – Alameda County.
• Local help and referrals: The City of Fremont’s economic development pages point to local programs and contacts. Start at the city homepage and search “economic development”: City of Fremont – Official Site.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If certification is slowing you down, sell first and certify later. For public contracting, certification matters more; for private corporate supplier programs, you can often start vendor onboarding and complete certification in parallel.
• If you need assistance in your language, ask the agency for interpreter services when you call.

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Frequently asked questions (California and Fremont)

• Do I need a Fremont Business Tax Certificate if my LLC is registered with the state?
  Yes. State registration doesn’t replace the local Business Tax Certificate. Apply via Fremont HdL Portal.
• I work from home in Fremont and consult online. Do I still need a business license?
  Usually yes. Home-based businesses still need a City Business Tax Certificate. Check home occupation rules via Accela.
• I’m a contractor based outside Fremont. Do I need a license just to do one job there?
  Yes. Out-of-city contractors must obtain a Fremont Business Tax Certificate. Apply via HdL.
• How much is the Fremont business license?
  It depends on your activity category. Use the official calculator in the HdL Portal. The portal computes your tax based on your answers.
• What happens if I forget to renew?
  Late renewals usually incur penalties and interest. Log in to HdL for your renewal date and to pay.
• Do I need a seller’s permit for services?
  Not usually, but if you sell taxable goods (even occasionally), you’ll need a seller’s permit: CDTFA – Permits & Licenses | 1-800-400-7115.
• Is the California $800 tax due in the first year?
  For LLCs/LPs/LLPs, the $800 annual tax generally applies each year. Some first-year rules apply to corporations. Check current rules: FTB – Business Entities or call 1-800-852-5711.
• Do I need a DBA?
  If you operate under a name different from your legal entity name, file a Fictitious Business Name with Alameda County: Alameda County FBN | (510) 272-6362.
• How do I find my sales tax rate for Fremont?
  Use CDTFA’s address lookup: Find a Sales and Use Tax Rate.
• Who can help me for free with my application and permits?
  Get advising from the NorCal SBDC: Alameda County SBDC. They can walk through steps and paperwork.

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What to do if you’re on a tight timeline

• Submit complete applications with clear descriptions and floor/site plans.
• Ask staff what’s needed for conditional approvals or phased openings.
• Use the portals daily for status and messages: HdL and Accela.
• If a permit is blocking your opening, ask whether a minor scope change could move you to a faster track.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Consider a temporary pop-up in a compliant space (for retail/food) while your permanent site is under construction; you’ll still need permits, but scope is smaller.
• Shift to e-commerce or mobile services (if allowed) until your site is ready.

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Step-by-step: Applying for your Fremont Business Tax Certificate

Most important action: Gather your documents first so the portal can calculate your category and tax correctly.

• Go to Fremont Business Tax – HdL Portal.
• Create an account and start a new application. Enter your legal entity, ownership, NAICS/activity details.
• Provide your federal EIN or SSN, state registrations (seller’s permit number if applicable), and your DBA if using one.
• Enter your business location in Fremont (or indicate you are an out-of-city business performing work in Fremont).
• Upload any requested documents (lease authorization, health permits, professional licenses, home occupation permit).
• Review the calculated tax and fees. Pay online. Save your confirmation.
• Check your email and the portal for any follow-up questions from city staff.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If your activity type isn’t listed or your category seems wrong, submit the application and write a note. Staff can reclassify as needed.
• If the portal won’t accept your address, verify your parcel/address in Accela and try again.

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Step-by-step: Getting a seller’s permit (if you sell taxable goods)

• Determine if your products are taxable (e.g., most retail items, prepared foods). Check the relevant guide: CDTFA – Industry Guides.
• Apply online: CDTFA – Permits & Licenses. It’s typically free, but CDTFA may require a security deposit depending on your risk profile.
• Set up your POS and accounting to collect and remit the correct rate for your address: Find the sales tax rate.
• File returns on schedule; CDTFA assigns monthly/quarterly/annual frequency.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Call 1-800-400-7115 and ask for help with product taxability or district taxes.
• If you’re an online-only seller, study marketplace facilitator rules to avoid double-collecting.

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Step-by-step: Registering with EDD (if you have employees)

• Register before paying wages: EDD e-Services for Business.
• Post required notices and get workers’ comp insurance in place.
• Confirm current UI, SDI, and PIT rates and wage limits: EDD – Rates and Withholding.
• Set payroll frequency and deposit schedules based on your assigned frequency.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Call EDD at 1-888-745-3886. Ask for help setting up accounts and understanding due dates.
• If you misclassified a worker, work with EDD to correct and move forward.

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Step-by-step: Fictitious Business Name (DBA) in Alameda County

• Search name availability and file: Alameda County Clerk-Recorder – FBN.
• Publication is required within a specified time frame in an adjudicated newspaper for new FBNs. The clerk’s site lists details.
• Keep proof of publication for your bank and records.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Call (510) 272-6362 for help with filing details.
• If your name is taken, tweak the name and re-file. Consider checking trademarks at USPTO TESS.

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Reality checks and warnings

• Lease risk: Don’t sign a multi-year lease until you know your use is allowed and the buildout is feasible and affordable.
• ADA compliance: California’s CASp program helps identify accessibility fixes. A CASp inspection can lower legal risk. See: DSA – CASp Program.
• Insurance gaps: Many landlords require specific liability limits and additional insured endorsements. Get quotes early.
• Cash flow: Budget for the $800 FTB minimum tax and, for LLCs, the LLC Fee tiers. These surprise many first-time owners.
• Signage: Even window decals and sandwich boards usually need approval. Don’t install before permits.
• Late fees: City, state tax agencies, and county health all assess penalties. Calendar your due dates.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If costs exceed your plan, consider a smaller phase-one launch, shared space, or changing the business model until revenue stabilizes.
• Ask agencies about installment options where available before you miss payments.

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Table: “Which permit first?” cheat sheet

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What to prepare before you talk to the city or county

• One-paragraph description of your operations (what you do, hours, customers on-site, deliveries).
• Diagram/floor plan with dimensions and labels (even a clean sketch helps).
• Equipment list (especially food service, manufacturing, or labs).
• Waste, ventilation, or hazardous materials info if any.
• Your entity documents, EIN letter, seller’s permit number, and DBA (if any).

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you don’t know what plan set level is needed, upload a simple sketch and ask reviewers what they need to complete a plan check.
• For food businesses, ask ACDEH if you need a pre-submittal meeting.

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If you sell, serve, or make food

Most important action: call or email Alameda County Environmental Health before you invest in equipment layout—quick guidance upfront saves rework.

• Food permits and plan checks: ACDEH – Food Facilities | (510) 567-6700
• Mobile food: commissary agreement, route, and cart/truck design approvals are needed.
• For alcohol, coordinate ABC licensing with your site’s zoning and neighborhood compatibility: California ABC – Licensing.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If your menu triggers additional requirements (e.g., raw proteins, smoker/hood), ask ACDEH what’s required and get it in writing.
• If your buildout bogs down, consider a soft-opening with limited menu that fits your installed equipment, then expand after final approvals.

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Funding and cost relief tips (California-focused)

• SSBCI-backed loans via California IBank partners can improve approval odds. See: California IBank – Small Business Finance Center.
• State small business certifications (SB/DVBE) can open contracting revenue: CA DGS – Certifications.
• Check with the SBDC for local grants or façade programs when they exist; they change frequently: NorCal SBDC – Alameda County.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you’re declined for a bank loan, ask for the decline letter and bring it to the SBDC; they can match you to a community lender.
• Consider starting with a smaller scope or mobile/pop-up model to prove demand.

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What to do if you receive a notice or citation

• Read the notice carefully and note the response deadline (often 10–30 days). Respond by the date in writing through the portal or method they specify.
• Fix what you can immediately (for example, file overdue renewals or tax returns).
• If you disagree, ask about appeal or reconsideration procedures.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Consult an attorney for enforcement actions or high-dollar disputes.
• If you’re behind on multiple fronts, make a prioritized plan with an SBDC advisor.

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About This Guide

• Sources in this guide are official government or well-established organizations. Each claim is linked to the source.
• Figures and rules can change throughout the year. Some local fees and schedules are only available via the city’s live portals.
• Where exact current amounts were not available in an official, permanent document, we linked directly to the official calculator or contact page and advised you to confirm current numbers.

Key official sources used and last-verified dates:

• Fremont Business Tax – HdL Portal (access portal; verify fees inside) — verified September 2025.
• Fremont Accela Citizen Access (permits/inspections) — verified September 2025.
• CDTFA – Permits & Licenses and Find a Sales Tax Rate — verified September 2025.
• FTB – Business Entities pages, including LLC annual tax and fee, and LLC fee tiers (Form 3536) — verified August–September 2025.
• EDD – e-Services for Business and Rates & Withholding — verified September 2025.
• Alameda County Environmental Health – Permits — verified September 2025.
• Alameda County Clerk-Recorder – FBN — verified September 2025.
• bizfile Online – CA SOS — verified September 2025.
• CSLB – Licensing — verified September 2025.

If you spot a broken link, use the parent agency home page and search the topic; government URLs occasionally change.

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Disclaimer

This guide is for general information only and is not legal, tax, or accounting advice. Program rules, fees, tax rates, and eligibility change. Always verify current requirements with the City of Fremont, Alameda County, the California Franchise Tax Board, CDTFA, EDD, the California Secretary of State, and any other relevant agency using the official links above. If you have specific questions about your situation, consult a qualified professional.