San Diego, CA Business License Guide

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The Ultimate San Diego, CA Business License Guide (2025)

Last updated: August 2025

This is your no-nonsense, step-by-step hub for getting legal to do business in the City of San Diego and San Diego County. You’ll find verified links to official sites, real timelines, realistic costs, and what to do if something hits a snag. San Diego calls the city “business license” a Business Tax Certificate. You may still need several other permits.

Quick help box

The very short version (then we go deep)

  • Register for the City of San Diego Business Tax Certificate if you do business in city limits.
  • Add county, state, and industry permits (DBA, seller’s permit, health, fire, police-regulated, ABC, etc.).
  • Form your entity (LLC/Corp) with the CA Secretary of State if you want liability protection, and budget for state taxes like the California LLC annual tax of $800 (see FTB link below).
  • Confirm zoning and building/fire code compliance before you sign a lease.
  • Set up payroll tax accounts if you’ll have employees.
  • Keep renewals on a calendar and know your city/state tax filing routines.

At-a-glance checklist and timelines

Use this as your roadmap. Then jump to the section for details and links.

Step Who needs it Typical cost Where to apply Typical timeline
City of San Diego Business Tax Certificate Anyone doing business in City of San Diego (home-based too) Check official rates City Treasurer – Business Tax Same day to a few days
Zoning/location check (and occupancy, sign, fire as needed) Brick-and-mortar; some home-based Varies City DSD 1–6 weeks typical
Fictitious Business Name (DBA) Sole props/partnerships or anyone using a “doing business as” name Check official amounts County ARCC – FBN Same day–2 weeks + publication 4 weeks
Seller’s Permit (CDTFA) Selling/leasing taxable goods $0 (may require security deposit) CDTFA – Seller’s Permits Same day to 2 days
Entity formation (LLC/Corp) If you want liability separation Filing fees vary; CA LLC annual tax $800 CA SOS – bizfile Online 1–10 business days
Payroll (EDD) If you have employees $0 to register EDD e-Services Same day–1 week
Industry permits (food, alcohol, contractors, etc.) Certain trades/industries Varies See industry table below 2–12+ weeks (varies)

Sources: City of San Diego; County of San Diego; California CDTFA; California Secretary of State; California EDD. See direct URLs inside each section.

City of San Diego Business Tax Certificate (the “city license”)

Most important action: confirm you operate in City of San Diego limits and register online.

  • Apply: City of San Diego – Business Tax Certificate. This is the official page for new registrations, renewals, and program rules. The City refers to this as a tax, not a “license,” but you must have it to legally operate within city limits.
  • Who must register:
    • Any person or entity conducting business within City of San Diego boundaries, including home-based businesses and out-of-city businesses that perform work within the City. See the City’s definition and FAQs on the page above.
  • When to register:
    • Generally, register as soon as you start doing business in the city. The City may impose penalties if you delay. Check the page above for the specific registration window and penalty schedule.
  • Cost and rates:
    • Rates depend on business size and/or factors the City sets (for example, number of employees). The City posts current rates and any one-time processing fees. Use the official rates table here: Business Tax rates and information. Check the page for current amounts before you pay.
  • Required info/documents:
    • Legal name and contact info
    • Business name (DBA) if any
    • Business location address (and mailing address)
    • Start date of business in the City
    • Business activity description (NAICS code helps)
    • Number of employees (including owners in many cases)
    • Federal EIN or SSN/ITIN for sole proprietors
    • State licenses/permits if your industry requires them (e.g., contractor license)
  • Processing time and proof:
    • Online approval is often same-day or 1–3 business days. Print or save your confirmation/certificate from the portal.
  • Renewal:
    • The Business Tax is renewed annually. The City bills on its schedule; your renewal date will be shown in your account/certificate. Late renewals draw penalties/interest. Mark your calendar.
  • Special taxes/assessments to know:
  • Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) for lodging:
  • Real-world example:
    • A home-based graphic designer in North Park who visits clients in the city must register for the Business Tax Certificate even if clients pay online and the designer has no storefront.

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • If the portal errors or your situation is unusual (seasonal, mobile, out-of-city with San Diego clients), use the City Treasurer’s contact options: Contact the City Treasurer. You can also call the City’s general information line at (619) 236-5555 or DSD at (619) 446-5000 if your issue is zoning/occupancy-related. For hands-on help, contact the SBDC at San Diego & Imperial SBDC Network for free assistance.

Zoning, location, occupancy, signage, and fire

Most important action: verify your location is zoned for your use before you sign a lease or invest in build-out.

  • Zoning/Use Verification:
  • Home-based businesses:
    • San Diego allows many home occupations with limits on signage, traffic, equipment, and on-site clients. Review the City’s home occupation rules via DSD. If you have clients visiting regularly, employees on site, or special equipment, you may need additional approvals.
  • Certificate of Occupancy (C of O):
    • New tenants and uses often trigger a C of O update, especially if the use changes (e.g., retail to restaurant). Coordinate with your landlord and DSD.
  • Building permits and tenant improvements:
    • Any structural changes, electrical/plumbing/HVAC, accessible restrooms, or kitchen build-outs require permits. Start with DSD – Get Permits.
  • Sign permits:
    • Exterior signs need permits and must meet size/design rules. Check DSD – Signs.
  • Fire permits and inspections:
    • Restaurants, assembly spaces, hazardous materials, certain warehouses, and cannabis operations will need Fire Marshal review or permits. Begin with the fire department’s permits page: San Diego Fire-Rescue Department – Permits/Inspections. For questions, call City DSD at (619) 446-5000 and ask for fire permit routing.
  • Accessibility (ADA/California Building Code):
    • Remodels and new builds must meet accessibility rules (parking, paths of travel, restrooms, counters). Federal guidance: ADA.gov – Businesses. California has stricter standards—work with a licensed design professional.
  • Stormwater/industrial:
  • Timeline reality:
    • Straightforward zoning clearances can be quick. Build-outs can run 4–12+ weeks depending on scope, plan check cycles, and inspections.

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • If a use is not permitted outright, ask DSD if a conditional use permit or minor deviation is possible. Consider another location zoned for your use. For plan check delays, schedule a preliminary review with DSD at (619) 446-5000 to iron out issues. The SBDC can help you map options before you sign a lease.

Fictitious Business Name (DBA) – San Diego County

Most important action: if your business name does not include your legal surname (for a sole proprietor) or your entity’s exact registered name, file a DBA.

  • Who needs it:
    • CA Business & Professions Code requires a Fictitious Business Name (FBN) statement when you do business under a name that does not include the owner’s surname (for sole proprietors) or the exact legal corporate/LLC name.
  • Where to file:
  • When to file:
    • File within 40 days of starting to do business under the fictitious name (per CA B&P Code; verify on the County page above).
  • Publication requirement:
    • After filing, you must publish the FBN in an adjudicated newspaper once a week for 4 consecutive weeks. The first publication must begin within 45 days of filing, or you may need to refile. See County guidance for sanctioned newspapers and exact rules.
  • Fees:
    • Fees depend on the number of business names/owners listed and certified copies requested. Check current amounts on the County site: ARCC – Fees and FBN Info.
  • Real-world example:
    • “Oceanview Bookkeeping” run by sole proprietor Jade Kim must file an FBN because the name doesn’t include her surname.

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • If your newspaper publication is rejected or late, contact the County ARCC via the website above for corrective steps. If you need help choosing a paper or proving publication, ask the recording office staff at their counters. If your bank needs proof fast, request certified copies at filing.

State entity setup (LLC/Corp), CA taxes, and required filings

Most important action: decide whether you’ll operate as a sole proprietor/general partnership or form an LLC/corporation for liability separation. If forming an entity, use California’s online system.

  • Forming an LLC or corporation:
    • File online with the California Secretary of State: bizfile Online (CA SOS). You can reserve a name, file formation, and get certified copies.
  • Statement of Information:
    • LLCs and corporations must file an initial Statement of Information within 90 days of registration, and then periodically (LLC every 2 years; corporations annually). See: CA SOS – Statements of Information.
  • California LLC annual tax and fee (Franchise Tax Board):
    • Most LLCs owe an annual tax of $800 to the Franchise Tax Board, due by the 15th day of the 4th month after the beginning of the tax year. Some LLCs also owe a separate LLC fee based on total income sourced to California:
      • **900∗∗if900** if 250,000–$499,999
      • **2,500∗∗if2,500** if 500,000–$999,999
      • **6,000∗∗if6,000** if 1,000,000–$4,999,999
      • **11,790∗∗if11,790** if 5,000,000 or more

      Details: FTB – LLC Annual Tax and Fee.

  • California corporations (C and S):
    • Most corporations owe a minimum franchise tax of $800 each year (with limited first-year exceptions that can change by law). Always check the FTB page for current rules: FTB – Corporation Franchise Tax.
  • EIN (Employer Identification Number):
  • Business bank account:
    • Banks usually want your EIN (or SSN for sole prop), formation documents (if LLC/Corp), FBN filing, and your City Business Tax Certificate. Call ahead.
  • Timelines:
    • Online LLC/Corp filings can be same day to 1–10 business days depending on workload and options.

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • Use the SOS contact resources in your bizfile account, or consult a qualified attorney/CPA for complex ownership, foreign entities, or multi-member tax elections. Free, local guidance: San Diego & Imperial SBDC. For state tax questions, call FTB business line via FTB Contact.

California seller’s permit (sales tax) – CDTFA

Most important action: if you sell or lease taxable tangible goods in California (including online with in-state fulfillment or local delivery), you generally need a seller’s permit.

  • Apply:
  • Who needs it:
    • Retailers, wholesalers (resale), certain service businesses that sell goods, caterers, restaurants, food trucks (for taxable items), and marketplace sellers in some situations.
  • Local sales tax rate in the City of San Diego:
    • Sales and use tax rates vary by location. The base rate across California is 7.25%; the City of San Diego’s combined rate is commonly 7.75%. Always verify your exact rate by address: CDTFA – Find a Sales and Use Tax Rate by Address. Rates can change and some neighborhoods differ.
  • Returns and filing frequency:
    • CDTFA assigns monthly, quarterly, or annual filing based on estimated volume. Mark your due dates—penalties add up quickly.
  • Food vendors:
    • Food for immediate consumption is usually taxable; cold food “to go” can be exempt. San Diego’s local health permit is separate from CDTFA. Review CDTFA food tax guidance and call 1-800-400-7115 for your specific menu.

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • For unusual scenarios (marketplace facilitators, multi-city operations, out-of-state sales into CA), ask CDTFA to walk through your case: 1-800-400-7115. You can also get free accounting help via SBDC: SBDC – Tax & Accounting Advising.

Hiring employees in California (EDD, workers’ comp, OSHA)

Most important action: register with EDD if you’ll have employees and line up workers’ comp insurance before your first hire starts work.

  • EDD payroll account:
    • Register via EDD e-Services for Business. Generally, you become an employer when you pay more than $100 in wages in a calendar quarter (non-household) in California. See the EDD California Employer’s Guide (DE 44) on the EDD site.
  • Payroll taxes:
    • You’ll remit Unemployment Insurance (UI), Employment Training Tax (ETT), State Disability Insurance (SDI), and California Personal Income Tax (PIT) withholding as assigned. Filing cadence (monthly/quarterly) depends on your payroll.
  • Workers’ compensation insurance:
  • Cal/OSHA:
  • New hire reporting:

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • If you can’t access your EDD account or you’re unsure about employee vs. contractor, call EDD’s assistance line at 1-888-745-3886 or consult an employment attorney/CPA. You can also request a free Cal/OSHA on-site consultation at 1-800-963-9424 to identify safety requirements before opening.

Industry-specific permits and licenses (San Diego + California)

Most important action: use CalGOLD to map your industry permits, then follow the city/county/state links below.

Industry Likely permits/licenses Agency Notes (fees vary; check official pages)
Restaurants, cafés, caterers Health permit, plan check, grease interceptor review; City occupancy/building/sign; seller’s permit; fire County DEHQ – Food Program; City DSD; CDTFA Plan check can take 2–8+ weeks depending on scope
Food trucks/carts Mobile Food Facility permit; commissary agreement; cart/truck plan check; seller’s permit; City parking/fire rules County DEHQ – Mobile Food; City DSD Commissary is required in most cases
Retail shops City Business Tax; seller’s permit; sign permit; occupancy; possibly alarm/police-regulated City Treasurer; CDTFA Verify zoning before lease
Salons, barbers CA Board of Barbering & Cosmetology shop license; City Business Tax; building/fire; seller’s permit for products BBC – CA; City DSD Inspections required
Contractors CSLB license; City Business Tax; seller’s permit if retailing materials; workers’ comp CSLB – Licensing; City Treasurer Verify classification and bonding
Child care State child care license; City zoning/home occupation; fire CDSS – Community Care Licensing; City DSD Ratios, training, and home requirements
Alcohol sales ABC license; local zoning/fire; City Business Tax; seller’s permit ABC – District Offices Protest periods; public notice
Short-term rentals City STRO license; City TOT registration City – STRO; City – TOT Tiered caps and fees
Cannabis (state + city) State DCC license + City cannabis permits; fire; security; business tax CA DCC – Licensing; City of San Diego – Cannabis Highly regulated, location limits
Body art (tattoo, piercing) County body art facility/practitioner permits; City Business Tax; building/fire County DEHQ – Body Art Exposure control plan required

Tip: Run your exact address and NAICS code through CalGOLD: CalGOLD Permit Finder.

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • If you hit conflicting guidance, get a written answer from the regulating agency (email is fine). For multi-agency projects (like restaurants), schedule a pre-application meeting with DSD at (619) 446-5000 and DEHQ at (858) 505-6900 to align requirements.

Money, fees, and taxes you should budget for

Most important action: map your must-pay city, county, and state costs on a 12-month calendar so nothing surprises you.

  • City Business Tax Certificate:
  • County Fictitious Business Name:
  • California LLC/Corp:
    • CA LLC annual tax of 800∗∗pluspossibleLLCfeebasedonrevenue(seebracketsabove).Corporationsgenerallyowe∗∗800** plus possible LLC fee based on revenue (see brackets above). Corporations generally owe **800 minimum franchise tax annually. Sources: FTB – LLC, FTB – Corporations.
  • Seller’s permit:
    • $0 to register; CDTFA may require a security deposit. You collect and remit sales tax—don’t spend it.
  • Health and building permits:
  • Fire permits:
  • ABC alcohol license:
  • Payroll/HR:
  • City TOT (if lodging):
    • TOT at 10.5%, collected from guests and remitted to the City: City – TOT.

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • If costs are higher than expected, phase your opening (soft open without alcohol; limited menu while health plan check finishes). Consider shared kitchens or short-term pop-ups. Talk to SBDC about cash flow planning: SBDC.

Realistic timelines

Task Typical timeline in San Diego
City Business Tax Certificate registration Same day to 3 business days
DBA filing + publication Filing same day–2 weeks; publication 4 weeks
CDTFA seller’s permit Same day to 2 days
LLC/Corp formation (online) 1–10 business days
DSD zoning confirmation (simple) 1–2 weeks
Building permit plan check (tenant improvement) 2–8 weeks (depends on scope)
County health plan check (restaurant) 2–8+ weeks
ABC alcohol license (common retail types) 4–12+ weeks with posting/protest periods
Fire inspection sign-off 1–3 weeks after build-out complete
EDD payroll account Same day to 1 week

These are common ranges; your project may be faster or slower based on workload, complexity, and corrections requested by reviewers.

Common mistakes to avoid (and how to fix them)

Mistake How to avoid/fix
Signing a lease before checking zoning and parking requirements Call DSD at (619) 446-5000 and verify use, parking, occupancy, and any conditional permits first
Forgetting County health plan check for food service Start with DEHQ Food Program before you buy equipment; submit complete plans
Not registering for the City Business Tax Certificate Register early at City – Business Tax to avoid penalties
Missing DBA publication window Publish within 45 days using an adjudicated newspaper; if missed, refile promptly
Treating staff as contractors Use EDD’s guidance; when in doubt, classify as employees and get workers’ comp; call EDD 1-888-745-3886
Forgetting the CA LLC annual tax Calendar the $800 payment and LLC fee thresholds; see FTB – LLC
Skipping fire code early For assembly/restaurant/warehouse, get fire input early; route through DSD and Fire-Rescue
Using an unpermitted sign Submit sign permit to DSD; verify size and lighting rules before fabrication
Assuming sales tax rate Verify your exact address rate with CDTFA’s tool
Opening with incomplete inspections Schedule final inspections in order (building, fire, health) and keep correction logs

Inclusivity, diversity, and accessibility resources (San Diego/California)

Most important action: claim certifications and tap free help tailored to your identity and community—many agencies offer real contracting and technical support.

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • If your certification application stalls, contact the certifying agency directly via its “Contact” page and request a status check. SBDC advisors can help you assemble documents and correct issues at no cost.

Real-world examples (San Diego scenarios)

  • Food truck launching in Kearny Mesa:
    • Tasks: LLC formation; seller’s permit; County DEHQ Mobile Food Facility permit and commissary agreement; City Business Tax Certificate; fire compliance for propane; EDD payroll if hiring.
    • Pitfall: Skipping commissary. Fix: Secure a commissary letter before DEHQ plan check.
  • Home-based e-commerce in City Heights:
    • Tasks: City Business Tax Certificate; seller’s permit; DBA filing if using a brand name; ensure home occupation rules allow storage/shipping; verify sales tax rates by ship-to address.
    • Pitfall: Not verifying HOA or landlord rules. Fix: Get written approval; adjust storage to meet home occupation limits.
  • Beer/wine bottle shop in North Park:
    • Tasks: City zoning check; lease; DSD occupancy/sign permits; seller’s permit; ABC Type 20 license; City Business Tax Certificate; fire inspection; create a neighborhood notice plan for ABC posting.
    • Pitfall: Assuming alcohol OK at any retail spot. Fix: Confirm zoning and ABC proximity rules early; build in 6–12 weeks for ABC.

FAQs (California + San Diego focused)

  • Do I need a City of San Diego Business Tax Certificate if my LLC is registered with the state but I work from home in San Diego?
    • Yes. If you’re conducting business within City limits, the City requires registration. Apply here: City – Business Tax.
  • How fast can I get a seller’s permit?
  • I’m a contractor based in Chula Vista but do jobs in San Diego city. Do I need San Diego’s Business Tax Certificate?
    • If you perform work within City limits, the City generally requires you to register. See: City – Business Tax. Also ensure your CSLB license is current: CSLB.
  • What’s the sales tax rate in my San Diego neighborhood?
  • How much is the California LLC annual tax and when is it due?
    • $800, due by the 15th day of the 4th month of your tax year. Some LLCs also owe the LLC fee based on income. Details: FTB – LLC.
  • How long does an FBN (DBA) last in San Diego County?
    • Typically 5 years (unless information changes). You must publish as required within 45 days. See: County ARCC – FBN.
  • Do I need a health permit to sell cottage foods?
    • California’s Cottage Food program allows certain low-risk foods with a registration or permit, depending on Class A/B. Check the County’s food program for local requirements: DEHQ – Food.
  • Can I open with a temporary certificate?
    • Some agencies allow temporary occupancy or temporary event food permits. Ask DSD at (619) 446-5000 and DEHQ at (858) 505-6900 about options for your case.
  • I have employees—do I need workers’ comp if they’re part-time?
  • What happens if I don’t renew the City Business Tax on time?
    • The City assesses penalties/interest for late renewal. Log in to the City portal and pay as soon as possible: City – Business Tax. Contact the City Treasurer via Contact page if you need help.

Handy contacts (official)

Agency Purpose Link Phone
City of San Diego – Office of the City Treasurer Business Tax Certificate, TOT, STRO Business Tax See page or call City info (619) 236-5555
City of San Diego – Development Services Zoning, building, occupancy, signs DSD (619) 446-5000
County of San Diego – DEHQ Food facilities, mobile food, body art DEHQ – Food (858) 505-6900
County of San Diego – ARCC Fictitious Business Name (DBA) ARCC – FBN See ARCC contacts on site
CA CDTFA Seller’s permit, sales/use tax CDTFA – Seller’s Permits 1-800-400-7115
CA Secretary of State LLC/Corp filings bizfile Online See SOS contact on site
CA EDD Employer payroll taxes EDD e-Services 1-888-745-3886
CA FTB Business income/franchise taxes FTB – Business See FTB contact on site
CA ABC Alcohol licensing ABC – District Offices District office list
Cal/OSHA Consultation Safety help, free Cal/OSHA Consultation 1-800-963-9424
SBDC – San Diego & Imperial Free advising SBDC Network Request online

“What do I actually file?” quick reference tables

City and County filings

Filing Who needs it When How/where
City Business Tax Certificate Any business operating in City of San Diego Before or right after starting; renew annually City – Business Tax
Fictitious Business Name (DBA) Anyone using a business name that doesn’t include owner’s surname or exact entity name Within 40 days of starting County ARCC – FBN
Health Permit (Food) Restaurants, caterers, food trucks, markets, some manufacturers Before operating; plan check prior to build-out County DEHQ – Food
Fire Permits Assembly spaces, certain retail/industrial Before operating San Diego Fire-Rescue
STRO License Short-term rental hosts Before hosting City – STRO

State registrations and taxes

Filing Who needs it When How/where
Seller’s Permit Selling/leasing taxable goods Before making sales CDTFA – Seller’s Permits
LLC/Corp Formation If forming an entity Before operating as LLC/Corp CA SOS – bizfile Online
Statement of Information LLC/Corp Within 90 days of formation; then periodic CA SOS – Statements
CA LLC Annual Tax LLCs 15th day of 4th month of tax year FTB – LLC
Payroll Account Employers Before/when paying > $100 in wages in a quarter EDD e-Services

Step-by-step: How to apply for each major item

1) City Business Tax Certificate

  • Eligibility: Any business activity within City limits (including home-based and contractors doing jobs in the City).
  • Apply:
  • Required info:
    • Legal owner/entity info; FEIN/SSN
    • Start date in the City
    • Business activity and NAICS
    • Number of employees
    • Location address (or home address for home-based)
  • Cost:
    • Check current rates/fees on the City page above.
  • Timeline:
    • Often same day to 1–3 business days.
  • Proof:
    • Save/print certificate or confirmation.

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • Contact the City Treasurer: Contact page. If your issue is location/zoning, call DSD at (619) 446-5000.

2) Zoning/Occupancy/Signs/Fire

  • Eligibility: Required for storefronts/warehouses/assembly and sometimes home-based.
  • Apply:
  • Required info:
    • Address, floor plan, scope of work
    • Contractor licenses if pulling permits
  • Cost:
    • Varies; see fee schedules at DSD.
  • Timeline:
    • 1–8+ weeks depending on complexity.

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • Ask for a pre-application meeting via (619) 446-5000. Consider a different site zoned for your use.

3) Fictitious Business Name (DBA)

  • Eligibility: Name doesn’t include your surname (sole prop) or exact entity name.
  • Apply:
  • Required info:
    • Owner(s) names/addresses; business address; business name.
  • Cost:
    • See current fees on ARCC site; publication cost payable to newspaper.
  • Timeline:
    • Filing same day–2 weeks; publication 4 weeks.

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • Speak to ARCC staff at the counter or via site contact; refile if publication missed.

4) Seller’s Permit (CDTFA)

  • Eligibility: Selling/leasing taxable goods in CA.
  • Apply:
  • Required info:
    • Owner/entity info, FEIN/SSN, estimated sales, supplier list, location(s).
  • Cost:
    • $0 to register; deposit may be required.
  • Timeline:
    • Same day to 2 days.

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • Call CDTFA 1-800-400-7115; request local office contact for San Diego if needed.

5) State entity and taxes (LLC/Corp, FTB)

  • Eligibility: If forming an entity vs. sole prop.
  • Apply:
  • Required info:
    • Name, registered agent, management, business address, organizer/incorporator info.
  • Cost:
    • Filing fees vary by entity; verify on SOS fee page. Budget $800 LLC annual tax.
  • Timeline:
    • 1–10 business days.

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • Consult an attorney/CPA; ask SBDC for free guidance. See FTB business resources: FTB – Business.

6) Employer setup (EDD, workers’ comp)

  • Eligibility: Paying more than $100 in wages in a quarter (non-household).
  • Apply:
  • Required info:
    • EIN; legal entity details; worksite addresses; officer/owner info.
  • Cost:
    • $0 to register; insurance premium varies.
  • Timeline:
    • Same day to 1 week.

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • Call EDD 1-888-745-3886; for safety plans, call Cal/OSHA consultation 1-800-963-9424.

Reality checks, warnings, and tips

  • Plan for lead times:
    • Build-out reviews and inspections can add 4–12+ weeks. Factor that into rent negotiations and opening dates.
  • Change orders cost time:
    • Incomplete plans, missing ADA details, or kitchen equipment changes can trigger re-reviews. Pay for a competent designer familiar with San Diego code.
  • Sales tax is trust money:
    • Keep collected tax in a separate account. Late CDTFA filings can generate penalties and holds.
  • Home-based isn’t exempt:
    • Home-based operations still register for City Business Tax and follow home occupation rules.
  • Insurance:
    • Landlords often require general liability, plus product liability (restaurants/retail) and workers’ comp if employees. Budget it.
  • Keep a compliance calendar:
    • Include City tax renewal, CDTFA returns, FTB payments, EDD filings, and license renewals.

About the numbers and sources

This guide only cites amounts we can back with official sources. When an amount varies (for example, City Business Tax rates by employee count; County health plan check fees), we link directly to the official page and instruct you to check current amounts before paying. This avoids outdated figures.

Key official sources used throughout:

What to do if something stalls (escalation tips)

  • Ask for a plan check meeting:
    • For building/health/fire issues, request a cross-agency meeting early. DSD: (619) 446-5000, DEHQ: (858) 505-6900.
  • Get written guidance:
    • If you receive conflicting advice, ask for email confirmation from the agency. Keep it for your records.
  • Use free advisors:
    • SBDC advisors can review your plan and contact agencies with you: SBDC.
  • Consider phased openings:
    • Open without alcohol; limited seating; or sell prepackaged items while waiting for final permits.
  • Revisit your location:
    • Sometimes the fastest fix is choosing a site that’s already built for your use.

About This Guide

  • Purpose: Provide a practical, verified, people-first roadmap for getting properly licensed to do business in the City of San Diego and San Diego County, with direct links to official sources.
  • Scope: City Business Tax Certificate, County DBA and health permits, California state registrations and taxes, typical industry permits, timelines, pitfalls, and inclusive resources.
  • Method: We link to official City, County, and State sites so you can verify current amounts and rules before you pay, especially where fees vary or frequently change.
  • Who should use it: New San Diego businesses, relocating companies, and home-based entrepreneurs who want clear action steps and official links.

Disclaimer

Laws, fees, deadlines, phone numbers, processes, and program details change. Always verify amounts and requirements directly with the City of San Diego, San Diego County, and California state agencies using the links in this guide before you file or pay. Nothing here is legal, tax, or financial advice. Consult a qualified professional for your specific situation.