The Ultimate Riverside, CA Business License Guide (No-Nonsense, Actionable, Verified)
Last updated: August 2025
Quick help (save these links and numbers)
- Apply, renew, or pay for a City of Riverside business license (official HdL portal) — City’s online licensing portal (start or check your application)
- City of Riverside 311 (service and information) — Dial 311 inside city limits or (951) 826-5311 from anywhere
- City of Riverside Planning (zoning, home-based rules, use permits) — Confirm your address is zoned for your business use
- California seller’s permit (CDTFA) – register online — No state fee to get a seller’s permit; CDTFA help: 1-800-400-7115
- Riverside County Fictitious Business Name (DBA) filing — County Clerk/Recorder DBA filing and publication requirements
- California Secretary of State – business filings (bizfile Online) — Form an LLC, corporation, etc. (state filing, not a city license)
- CA Franchise Tax Board – $800 annual tax and business taxes — State-level business taxes overview
- California EDD employer payroll tax registration — Register if you have employees; EDD help: 1-888-745-3886
- Riverside County Environmental Health (food, body art, pools, etc.) — Health permits/inspections
What this guide covers (and what it doesn’t)
- Straight, step-by-step help to get legal in the City of Riverside, CA.
- Who needs a city business license, how to apply, what documents to bring, where to go, and typical timelines.
- Additional state and county permits most Riverside businesses need (seller’s permit, DBA, health permits, payroll registrations, etc.).
- Real examples and common mistakes.
This guide does not offer legal or tax advice. Always verify with official agencies. We link to the right pages so you don’t waste time.
Who needs a City of Riverside business license (Business Tax Certificate)
The City of Riverside requires most businesses that operate, do work, or are based in the city to obtain a Business Tax Certificate (often called the “business license”). This includes home-based businesses, mobile businesses that work within city limits, and out-of-city businesses doing work in Riverside (e.g., contractors, consultants).
Source: City of Riverside Municipal Code – Business Taxes (Municode) — see Title 5 (Business Taxes); verify with City Finance.
At-a-glance: Examples
| Business type | Needs City of Riverside business license? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Retail store in Riverside city | Yes | Also likely needs a California seller’s permit |
| Online seller (home-based in Riverside) | Yes | Home Occupation Permit may apply; seller’s permit if selling taxable goods |
| Contractor headquartered elsewhere but doing jobs in Riverside | Yes | City license to do work in city limits; CSLB license required for contracting |
| Mobile food truck operating in Riverside | Yes | Also needs County Environmental Health permit; may need fire/parking approvals |
| Consultant, freelancer (home-based in Riverside) | Yes | Home Occupation rules apply |
What to do if you’re unsure: Use CalGOLD: Riverside permits search to cross-check required permits, and call City 311 or (951) 826-5311 to confirm.
Key contacts and portals (bookmark these)
| Topic | Official portal/page | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| City business license (Business Tax) | Riverside HdL licensing portal | City 311: (951) 826-5311 |
| City zoning and land use | City of Riverside Planning | City 311: (951) 826-5311 |
| City building, occupancy, fire | City Building & Safety, Fire Prevention | City 311: (951) 826-5311 |
| Seller’s permit (sales tax) | CDTFA online services | 1-800-400-7115 |
| DBA (Fictitious Business Name) | Riverside County Clerk/Recorder – FBN | See contact page |
| Entity formation | CA SOS bizfile Online | See SOS contacts |
| Payroll taxes (employers) | EDD e-Services for Business | 1-888-745-3886 |
| Health permits (food, etc.) | Riverside County Environmental Health | See contact page |
| Alcohol license | CA ABC – licensing and district offices | See district offices |
| Free counseling | SBDC – Inland Empire Network | See contact page |
| SBA local office | SBA Orange County/Inland Empire District | (714) 550-7420 |
Notes:
- The City centralizes information through 311. If you don’t know which department, call (951) 826-5311 and say “business license” or “planning.”
- State-level portals (CDTFA, SOS, EDD) run separate from the City.
The fastest path to legal: do these in order
- Confirm your address is zoned for your use, and whether a Home Occupation Permit applies (if home-based).
- Apply for the City of Riverside business license (Business Tax Certificate) through the HdL portal.
- Register for a California seller’s permit if selling taxable goods.
- File a Fictitious Business Name (DBA) if using a trade name.
- If forming an LLC/corporation, file with the California Secretary of State; set up state taxes with FTB.
- If hiring, register as an employer with EDD and get workers’ compensation insurance.
- Get any sector permits (health, building, fire, ABC, contractors, etc.) as needed before opening.
Step 1 — Zoning clearance and home-based rules (don’t skip)
If you sign a lease or launch at home without checking zoning, you can get stopped and lose time and money. Check first with City Planning.
- Zoning and land use: City of Riverside Planning
- General City help: (951) 826-5311 (311)
What to check:
- Is your business use allowed at your address?
- Will you need a Home Occupation Permit (HOP) for a home-based business?
- Do you need an Administrative Use Permit or Conditional Use Permit for your use (e.g., auto uses, certain assembly, cannabis, etc.)?
- Will you need parking, accessibility, or tenant improvement permits?
Home-based business reality checks:
- Most cities limit onsite employees, customer traffic, and signs for home businesses. Noise, odors, storage, and vehicle trips can be restricted.
- If you’ll have clients coming to your home, ask Planning about limits before you advertise.
Required documents (typical):
- Address of your business (include suite if any)
- Short description of your business activities
- If renting, proof you can use the space (lease draft) and landlord contact
- If home-based, a description of activity, materials, storage, visitor traffic, and vehicles
- If you plan tenant improvements, a simple floor plan
Expected timeline:
- Simple zoning verification: often a few business days after you submit your license application (will vary).
- Home Occupation Permit: often 1–2 weeks if complete; more if clarification needed.
- Conditional Use/entitlement: can take several weeks to months depending on public hearings and plans.
Sources: Riverside Planning, City 311 (951) 826-5311.
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Call (951) 826-5311 and ask for Planning to review your address/use.
- Ask about alternative zones/locations where your use is allowed by-right.
- Get free siting help from SBDC Inland Empire or SBA OC/IE Office ((714) 550-7420).
Step 2 — Apply for the City of Riverside Business License (Business Tax Certificate)
Apply online:
- Official portal: Riverside HdL licensing portal (start a new application, renew, pay, and check status).
You’ll be asked for:
- Legal name of business, FEIN/SSN
- Business address and mailing address
- Ownership type (sole proprietor/LLC/corporation/partnership)
- Start date in the City
- Description of business activities
- Estimated gross receipts in the City (for tax calculation)
- Number of employees and independent contractors in the City
- Zoning confirmation details (the City may route to Planning/Fire/Building if needed)
- Uploads (if requested): driver’s license, lease/authorization, state licenses (e.g., CSLB, cosmetology, etc.)
Fees and renewals:
- City business tax is based on activity and/or gross receipts as defined in the City’s Municipal Code (Title 5). Fee schedules are published by the City Finance Department. See City of Riverside Finance – Business Taxes and City Municipal Code (Title 5).
- Renewals are typically annual. Watch for renewal notices from the City and the HdL portal.
Processing timelines (typical, not guaranteed):
- Straightforward, office-based/home-based uses: often 1–2 weeks if no inspections required.
- Uses needing Fire/Building/Health clearances: allow 2–8 weeks depending on inspections and plan checks.
Reality checks:
- If you start work without a City license, you can be cited and charged back taxes/penalties.
- If your business requires other agency approvals (health, ABC, contractor’s license, etc.) the City may hold the license until those are in place.
Sources: Riverside HdL portal, City Finance, Municipal Code.
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Call City 311 or (951) 826-5311; ask for Business Tax Division support.
- Visit the HdL portal help links; if you can’t find them, call City 311 for assistance.
- If you’re stuck on zoning or inspections, call 311 and ask to be transferred to Planning or Building & Safety with your application number.
Step 3 — Get a California seller’s permit (if you sell taxable goods)
If you sell or lease tangible personal property (retail or wholesale), you likely need a seller’s permit from the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA) — separate from the City license.
Apply:
- Online: CDTFA online services
- Help: 1-800-400-7115 (TTY: 711) — verify hours on the CDTFA website
Cost:
- The seller’s permit itself has no state fee. CDTFA may require a security deposit (often up to three months of estimated tax) depending on risk. Source: CDTFA Seller’s Permit – Overview and registration pages.
What you’ll need:
- FEIN/SSN, entity information
- Business address and ownership details
- Description of products and suppliers
- Estimated monthly sales and start date
Sales tax rate in Riverside:
- California’s base rate is 7.25% statewide; local district taxes may apply in the City of Riverside. Use CDTFA’s official lookup to confirm the current rate by address: CDTFA – Find a Sales and Use Tax Rate by Address.
Deadlines:
- CDTFA assigns filing frequency (monthly, quarterly, or annually). Due dates vary by frequency. See CDTFA Filing Instructions and Due Dates.
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Call CDTFA at 1-800-400-7115 and ask for seller’s permit registration assistance.
- Visit a CDTFA field office (locations on CDTFA site) if your application is flagged for deposit/verification.
- If your sales are online only and you’re unsure about nexus, read CDTFA’s guidance on marketplace facilitators and economic nexus (linked from CDTFA site).
Step 4 — File a Fictitious Business Name (DBA) in Riverside County, if needed
If your business name does not include your legal surname (for a sole proprietor) or your exact registered entity name (for LLC/corporation), California law usually requires a Fictitious Business Name (FBN/DBA).
Where to file:
- Riverside County Assessor-County Clerk-Recorder (ACR) FBN page: Riverside County Fictitious Business Names
Key rules (California Business & Professions Code):
- File the FBN statement in the county where the business is located.
- Publish the FBN in an adjudicated newspaper once per week for 4 consecutive weeks within 30 days after filing. The newspaper or a service can usually handle this. Source: see publication details at the ACR FBN page and California B&P Code.
Timeline and cost:
- Filing is usually same-day online or at the counter if paperwork is complete. Publication takes 4–5 weeks due to the weekly schedule.
- Exact fees depend on the number of business names/registrants and certified copies. Check current fees at the ACR FBN page above (fees can change year to year).
What to bring:
- Government-issued ID for the registrant
- Business address
- Exact business name(s) and owners’ names/addresses
- Payment method accepted by the county
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Use the contact options on the ACR page to ask questions about publication or name conflicts.
- If your county FBN filing is delayed, you can still apply for a City license, but the City may later request your FBN proof; ask the City if a receipt is acceptable temporarily.
Step 5 — Choose your legal structure and file with California (if applicable)
You can operate as a sole proprietor without state formation filings. If you prefer liability separation or other benefits, consider an LLC or corporation.
Where to file:
- California Secretary of State (SOS) – bizfile Online: bizfileonline.sos.ca.gov
Typical filings:
- LLC: Articles of Organization (Form LLC-1 online)
- Corporation: Articles of Incorporation
- Registered Agent address
State tax obligations:
- Most California entities (LLCs, LPs, LLPs, corporations) are subject to an annual minimum franchise tax of $800 with the Franchise Tax Board (FTB), with certain first-year exceptions or different rules for specific entity types that may apply. Verify current rules at FTB – Business Entities and the specific pages for your entity type.
Federal EIN:
- Get an EIN for free from the IRS: Apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN).
- IRS Business & Specialty Tax Line: 1-800-829-4933.
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If the SOS online system flags your filing, review name availability and agent information; use SOS help links.
- If you need legal/tax advice, consult a licensed attorney or CPA. Low-cost help is available through SBDC Inland Empire and SBA partners.
Step 6 — Hiring employees? Register with EDD and set up payroll compliance
If you pay wages in California, you must register as an employer with the Employment Development Department (EDD).
Register:
- EDD e-Services for Business: Employer registration and payroll taxes
- EDD Taxpayer Assistance Center: 1-888-745-3886
Key points (California):
- Unemployment Insurance (UI) applies to the first $7,000 of wages per employee per year (the “taxable wage limit”). Source: EDD – UI Tax.
- Contribution rates vary by employer and industry. New employer UI rates are assigned by EDD. Confirm current percentages at EDD’s rate pages.
- State Disability Insurance (SDI) and Employment Training Tax (ETT) rules/rates can change year to year. Check EDD’s current rates and withholding tables before you run payroll.
Other legal must-haves:
- Workers’ compensation insurance is required for California employers. See DIR – Workers’ Compensation for Employers.
- Post required workplace notices. See DIR – Workplace Postings.
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Call EDD at 1-888-745-3886 and ask for help setting up your employer account.
- If you receive a mismatch or ID verification request, respond quickly to avoid penalties.
- Talk to a licensed payroll provider; they can register and remit taxes on your behalf (you remain responsible).
Step 7 — Health, fire, building, alcohol, and other sector permits (as needed)
Many Riverside businesses need approvals beyond the City business license. Check these early to avoid delays.
| Activity/sector | Agency | What you likely need | Where to start |
|---|---|---|---|
| Food facility (restaurant, café, food truck, market) | Riverside County Environmental Health | Health permit, plan check, inspections | RivCo Environmental Health – Food |
| Body art, tattoo, piercing | Riverside County Environmental Health | Practitioner and facility permits | RivCo EH – Body Art |
| Swimming pool/spa (public/semi-public) | Riverside County Environmental Health | Facility permits, inspections | RivCo EH – Pools |
| Alcohol sales/service (on-sale/off-sale) | CA Dept. of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) | State alcohol license; local zoning signoff | ABC – Licensing |
| Construction/Contracting | Contractors State License Board (CSLB) | State contractor’s license; City business license to work in-city | CSLB – Licensing |
| Auto dealer/repair | CA DMV Occupational Licensing; City Planning/Fire | DMV dealer license; local zoning; possibly fire permits | DMV – Occupational Licensing |
| Hazardous materials | Riverside Fire Prevention; County Hazardous Materials | HAZMAT business plan, inspections | City Fire – Prevention |
| Signage, tenant improvements | City Building & Safety | Building permits, sign permits, inspections | City Building & Safety |
Timelines:
- Food facility plan check and pre-opening inspections can take 3–8+ weeks depending on completeness.
- ABC licenses can take 45–90+ days due to background checks, posting, and protests.
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If your plan check is stalled, call City (951) 826-5311 and ask to speak with your plan reviewer/project manager.
- For health permits, use the contact details on each RivCo EH program page to reach your inspector.
- For ABC license routes and timeline, contact the local ABC district office.
Fees, timelines, and documents — quick tables
Use these to plan your budget and timeline. Fees change; always verify on the linked official pages.
Table: Core steps and typical timelines
| Step | Fee (typical) | Timeline (typical) | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| City business license (Business Tax) | Varies by activity/gross receipts (see City Finance/Code) | 1–2 weeks simple; 2–8 weeks if inspections | HdL portal, Finance |
| Zoning/Home Occupation review | Often included/handled during license routing; some permits may have fees | A few days to 2+ weeks | Planning |
| Seller’s permit (CDTFA) | $0 permit; possible deposit | Same-day online if complete | CDTFA |
| FBN (DBA) filing | Check County site for current fees | Filing: same-day; Publication: 4 weeks | RivCo ACR – FBN |
| Entity formation (LLC/Corp) | State filing fees; verify current | Online filing typically 1–3 business days (varies) | CA SOS |
| EDD employer registration | $0 | Usually same-day | EDD |
| Workers’ comp policy | Premium varies by payroll/class code | Policy binding often same-day | DIR – Employer WC |
Table: Common required documents
| Step | Documents to prepare |
|---|---|
| City license | Owner ID; FEIN/SSN; business address; business description; start date; state license numbers (if any); lease or landlord authorization |
| Zoning/Home Occupation | Address; description of activity; any floor plan; parking/use details; for home-based, traffic/storage info |
| Seller’s permit | FEIN/SSN; entity info; estimated sales; supplier info; NAICS |
| FBN (DBA) | Business name; owner names/addresses; ID; publication arrangement |
| Entity formation | Articles; Registered Agent; corporate address; bylaws/operating agreement (keep for records) |
| EDD | FEIN; entity info; first payroll date; officer/owner info |
| Health permits | Menu/process; equipment list; floor plans; commissary (for mobile); manager food safety certs |
Table: Employer payroll quick facts (California)
| Topic | Amount/Rule | Source |
|---|---|---|
| UI taxable wage limit | $7,000 per employee per year | EDD – State Payroll Taxes |
| UI new employer rate | Assigned by EDD; varies by industry; verify current | EDD – Tax Rates |
| SDI and ETT | Rates can change annually; verify before first payroll | EDD – Rates |
| Workers’ comp | Required for all employees | DIR – WC for Employers |
Table: Sales and use tax quick facts
| Topic | Detail | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Statewide base rate | 7.25% (local district taxes may apply) | CDTFA – Rates |
| Find your current rate | Address-based lookup for exact Riverside locations | CDTFA – Rate Lookup |
| Filing frequency | Assigned by CDTFA (monthly/quarterly/annual) | CDTFA – Returns |
Table: Local and state help (free or low cost)
| Resource | What they do | Link/Phone |
|---|---|---|
| City of Riverside 311 | Navigation to City licensing, Planning, Building, Fire | City 311, (951) 826-5311 |
| SBDC Inland Empire | Free 1:1 advising; licensing roadmaps; financials | iesmallbusiness.com |
| SBA OC/IE District | Federal programs; lender connections | SBA OC/IE District Office, (714) 550-7420 |
| CalGOLD | Permit lookup by city/county/industry | calgold.ca.gov |
| CDTFA | Seller’s permits; sales/use tax | CDTFA Online, 1-800-400-7115 |
| EDD | Employer accounts; payroll taxes | EDD e-Services, 1-888-745-3886 |
Real-world Riverside examples
- Home-based Etsy seller in Canyon Crest:
- Gets a City license (home occupation). Registers a seller’s permit with CDTFA. Files a DBA if the shop name doesn’t match her legal name. Keeps shipping records and sales tax filings. Works with Planning to ensure no in-person retail at home per home occupation rules.
- Mobile coffee cart near Downtown:
- Checks with Planning on locations and private property permissions. Applies for Riverside County Environmental Health mobile food facility permits and commissary letter. Gets City business license. Confirms fire safety requirements for propane. Registers seller’s permit for coffee and taxable goods (mugs, bottled drinks).
- Remodeling contractor from Temecula doing jobs in Riverside:
- Holds CSLB license. Applies for a City of Riverside business license to work in city limits. Pulls building permits for each job as needed. Collects City business tax based on gross receipts attributable to Riverside jobs (per City code). Keeps job-by-job records.
Sources: Riverside Planning, RivCo EH, CSLB, CDTFA.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Skipping zoning verification before signing a lease
- Assuming an online-only business doesn’t need a City license if home-based in Riverside
- Forgetting to get a seller’s permit for taxable sales (even if mostly online)
- Using a trade name without filing a FBN (DBA) and publishing as required
- Hiring staff without registering with EDD and securing workers’ comp coverage
- Not coordinating health permits and fire/building inspections early (restaurants, salons, gyms)
- Missing CDTFA due dates because your filing frequency changed
- Letting your City license lapse due to an address or email change (renewal notices missed)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Call City (951) 826-5311 for licensing questions tied to your address/use.
- Use CalGOLD to check agency lists by city/industry.
- Book free help with SBDC Inland Empire.
Reality checks (timelines, costs, and red flags)
- Timelines stretch when multiple agencies are involved (Planning, Fire, Building, County Health, ABC). Build in 4–8+ weeks for complex uses.
- Build-outs and tenant improvements add permit costs and inspections. Ask Building & Safety about accessibility upgrades when you change the use or do construction.
- Sales tax rates change by district. Always verify your exact address with CDTFA’s lookup before you price, collect, or file.
- The FTB $800 annual business tax catches many new owners off guard. Budget for it in year one unless an exemption applies to your entity (check current FTB rules).
- Insurance matters: workers’ comp is mandatory with employees; general liability and commercial auto are often required by landlords and prime contractors.
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If cash flow is tight, ask your insurer about payment plans and talk to SBDC about budgeting.
- If a permit is delayed, ask for a clear checklist, a single point of contact, and target dates.
Inclusivity, diversity, and accessibility resources (Riverside-focused)
Certifications and supplier diversity can help you win contracts and access programs. Accessibility ensures all customers can reach you.
- Women-owned businesses
- Federal Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB/EDWOSB) certification: SBA WOSB Program
- CPUC Utility Supplier Diversity recognition via the Supplier Clearinghouse: The Supplier Clearinghouse (CPUC)
- Minority-owned businesses
- CPUC Supplier Diversity (MBE/WBE/LGBTBE): The Supplier Clearinghouse
- Caltrans/US DOT Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE): Caltrans Civil Rights – DBE
- Veteran-owned and service-disabled veteran-owned
- Federal SBA Veteran Small Business Certification (VetCert): veterans.certify.sba.gov
- California DVBE (Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise): DGS – DVBE Certification
- LGBTQ+-owned businesses
- National LGBT Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC) certification: NGLCC – Certification
- Disabled-owned businesses (non-veteran)
- Explore CPUC Supplier Clearinghouse (for M/W/LGBTBE); for ADA/accessibility, see resources below. Consider local corporate supplier diversity programs that recognize third-party certifications.
- Immigrant-owned businesses and language access
- California Office of the Small Business Advocate (CalOSBA): calosba.ca.gov (multilingual resources)
- City 311 can connect with language support upon request: Riverside 311 ((951) 826-5311)
- Accessibility (ADA) for storefronts and websites
- Physical access basics (parking, paths, entrances, service counters, restrooms) should comply with state/local building codes and ADA. Talk to City Building & Safety early.
- Web accessibility helps customers using screen readers. Ask your web vendor about WCAG guidelines.
- CA small business CASp program info: Division of the State Architect – CASp
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Get free help on certifications and contracting strategy from SBDC Inland Empire.
- For accessibility questions during a remodel, call City (951) 826-5311 and ask for Building & Safety plan review.
Frequently asked questions (Riverside and California)
- Do I need a City of Riverside license if I’m a freelancer working from home?
- Usually yes if your home is in Riverside city limits. Home Occupation rules apply. Source: City Planning.
- What to do: Confirm with City (951) 826-5311 and apply via HdL.
- I only sell online. Do I need a seller’s permit?
- If you sell taxable goods to California customers, you generally need a seller’s permit. Source: CDTFA – Sales and Use Tax.
- What to do: Apply at CDTFA. If marketplaces collect tax for you, read CDTFA’s marketplace guidance.
- How fast can I get my Riverside business license?
- Simple applications can complete in 1–2 weeks. If inspections or other approvals are needed, expect 2–8 weeks.
- What to do: Submit complete documents and check your HdL portal frequently for messages.
- What’s the sales tax rate in Riverside?
- Rates vary by address due to local districts. Use CDTFA’s lookup for your exact location. Source: CDTFA Rate Lookup.
- Do I need a DBA (FBN) for my trade name?
- If you’re a sole proprietor without your surname in the name, or you’re using a name different from your LLC/corporation’s legal name, you likely do. Source: RivCo ACR – FBN.
- Publish the name once per week for 4 weeks within 30 days after filing.
- I’m hiring my first employee. What are my immediate steps?
- Register with EDD, set up payroll withholding, buy workers’ comp, post required notices, and follow wage/hour rules. Sources: EDD, DIR – WC, DIR – Minimum Wage.
- How much is California’s annual business tax?
- Many entities owe $800 annually to the FTB (rules vary; some first-year exceptions apply for certain entity types). Source: FTB – Business Entities.
- Sole proprietors don’t pay the entity-level minimum tax, but they owe personal income tax on profits.
- Do I need an ABC license to serve beer/wine at my restaurant?
- Yes, you need the appropriate ABC license type and local zoning signoff. Timelines often 45–90+ days. Source: CA ABC – Licensing.
- I’m a contractor from outside Riverside. Do I need a Riverside license?
- What if I can’t find the right form or fee?
- Use City 311 ((951) 826-5311) for licensing questions, CalGOLD for permits, and the linked agency portals for current forms and fee schedules.
What to prepare before you apply (checklist)
- Choose your business name and confirm if a DBA is required
- Confirm zoning and whether a Home Occupation Permit applies
- Draft a short description of your business activities for the application
- Have your ID, FEIN (or SSN if sole proprietor), and any state license numbers ready
- For tenants: get landlord’s written permission (often needed for zoning/occupancy)
- For food/health uses: gather menus/processes, equipment lists, and preliminary layout
- For alcohol: review ABC license types and talk to Planning about zoning compatibility
- For employers: line up payroll provider and workers’ comp quotes
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Book an SBDC advisor at iesmallbusiness.com for a document checklist tailored to your business type.
“What happens when” timeline map
- Day 0–2: Submit City license application via HdL; City routes to Planning/Fire/Building as needed
- Day 1–5: Apply for seller’s permit (same-day approval if straightforward)
- Day 2–10: Planning review; if home-based, you may get conditions to follow
- Week 2–6: Health plans/inspections (food facilities), building permit plan review if improvements
- Week 4–8: ABC license (if applicable), final inspections, certificate of occupancy (if needed)
- Ongoing: City license renewal annually; CDTFA sales tax returns per frequency; FTB annual taxes; EDD payroll returns if hiring
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask each agency for your current status and what is outstanding. Keep a single “action list” and dates.
If you sell or serve food: Riverside County Environmental Health specifics
Don’t sign a construction contract for a kitchen until you talk to Environmental Health.
Start here:
Common requirements:
- Plan check for new or remodeled food facilities, commissary letters for mobile units, certified food protection manager on staff, equipment specification sheets, and pre-opening inspections.
Timelines:
- Plan check can take 2–6 weeks depending on completeness and backlog.
- Mobile units require inspections and commissary verification; allow 2–4+ weeks.
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Use the program contact on the EH page and ask about plan check completeness meetings.
- Coordinate with City Building & Safety to avoid double work on plans.
Taxes and deadlines you can’t ignore
- City of Riverside Business Tax renewal — typically annual. Watch your portal/email for reminders.
- CDTFA sales and use tax returns — monthly/quarterly/annual as assigned. Late filings incur penalties and interest.
- FTB annual business taxes — many entities owe $800 minimum; additional fees for LLCs may apply based on income. Verify deadlines with FTB.
- EDD payroll — deposit state payroll taxes on the assigned schedule, file quarterly returns, and issue Forms W-2 by January 31.
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you miss a filing, file and pay as soon as possible to limit penalties/interest. Most portals allow late filings.
- If you can’t pay in full, ask the agency about payment plans (CDTFA/FTB/EDD each have processes).
Plan B if your location doesn’t pencil out
- Ask Planning whether your use is allowed elsewhere in the City by-right (less red tape).
- Consider a shared commercial kitchen (for food businesses) or a co-working office for quiet professional services.
- If retail, consider a temporary pop-up with a landlord who already has the right entitlements.
- Use SBDC Inland Empire to review site options and lease clauses tied to permits.
Sources (linked above; verify dates on each site)
- City of Riverside — Finance, Planning, Building & Safety, Fire – Prevention, 311
- Riverside business licensing portal — riverside.hdlgov.com
- Municipal Code — Riverside Code of Ordinances (Municode)
- CDTFA — Online services, Sales and Use Tax, Rate lookup
- Riverside County ACR — Fictitious Business Names
- CA Secretary of State — bizfile Online, Business Programs
- Franchise Tax Board — Business Entities
- EDD — e-Services for Business, State Payroll Taxes
- DIR — Workers’ Compensation for Employers, Workplace Postings, Minimum Wage FAQ
- ABC — Licensing, District Offices
- CSLB — Contractor Licensing
- DMV Occupational Licensing — Vehicle Industry Services
- CalGOLD — Permit search
- Certifications — SBA WOSB, SBA VetCert, DGS SB/DVBE, Caltrans DBE, Supplier Clearinghouse (CPUC), NGLCC
What to do if something goes sideways with your application (general triage)
- Check your HdL portal for messages or missing items
- Call City (951) 826-5311 with your application number; ask for your file’s status and required next steps
- Keep a simple spreadsheet of each agency, reference number, contact name, and last action
- Ask for a consolidated “conditions list” so you can plan time and budget
If you’re truly stuck, get a no-cost second set of eyes from SBDC Inland Empire or call the SBA District Office ((714) 550-7420) for a referral.
About This Guide
- Purpose: help new and existing businesses get licensed and permitted in the City of Riverside with clear, verified steps and official links.
- How we source: we use the City’s official pages, California state agency portals (CDTFA, SOS, FTB, EDD, DIR), Riverside County Environmental Health and ACR, and statewide permit search (CalGOLD). All links point to official or well-established sources. Verify dates and fee schedules on each site.
- Limits: programs and fees change. Where exact dollar amounts weren’t available without live verification, we linked directly to the official fee pages and instructed you to confirm current amounts.
Disclaimer
This guide is for general information. It is not legal, tax, or professional advice. Program rules, fees, deadlines, and processes can change at any time. Always verify current requirements with the City of Riverside, Riverside County, and California state agencies using the official links provided. If you need advice for your situation, consult a licensed attorney, CPA, or qualified professional.