Santa Clarita, CA Business License Guide

Last updated: August 2025

Quick help (fast links and phone numbers)

• City Hall and Business License help: call (661) 259-2489 (City of Santa Clarita main line) or visit City of Santa Clarita — Official Website — official city homepage with links to business licensing and permits.
• Find your permits fast by industry: use CalGOLD Permit Assistance — State of California’s official tool to find city, county, and state permits by location and business type.
• Apply for a California Seller’s Permit (sales tax): apply online at CDTFA Seller’s Permit — How to Apply — official California Department of Tax and Fee Administration guidance. Help line: 1-800-400-7115 (CDTFA Customer Service).
• Register a Fictitious Business Name (DBA) in L.A. County: file with L.A. County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk — FBN — official filing page. Phone: (800) 201-8999 or (562) 462-2177 (County Clerk).
• Get an EIN (Federal Tax ID): apply free at IRS — Apply for an EIN Online — official IRS application. IRS Business & Specialty Tax Line: 1-800-829-4933.
• File Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI): most entities must report owners to FinCEN. Go to FinCEN — BOI Reporting — official U.S. Treasury portal. Deadlines vary; see section below.
• Hiring employees? Register with EDD: enroll at EDD — e-Services for Business — official California payroll tax registration. Taxpayer Assistance Center: 1-888-745-3886.
• Food, restaurant, food truck permits: apply with L.A. County Environmental Health at Public Health — Environmental Health — official county portal. General info line: (888) 700-9995.
• Alcohol license: see California ABC — Licensing — official Alcoholic Beverage Control licensing portal. General line: (916) 419-2500.
• Free one-on-one startup advising: SBDC — College of the Canyons — no-cost local advising and classes. Phone: (661) 362-5900.

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At‑a‑glance: Do you need a Santa Clarita business license?

Short answer: If you’re operating within Santa Clarita city limits — including a storefront, home-based business, mobile service, or contractors regularly doing work in the city — you will generally need a city business license (often called a “business tax certificate” or “business license certificate”). Always verify the specifics with the City of Santa Clarita before you start selling or advertising. Use the main City Hall line (661) 259-2489 or the city website’s business licensing page: City of Santa Clarita — Official Website (official).

Reality check: Your city license is only one part of compliance. Many businesses also need county health permits, state sales tax registration, and sometimes professional or state regulatory licenses (contractors, childcare, auto repair, alcohol, cannabis, etc.). CalGOLD is the fastest official way to see all likely permits: CalGOLD Permit Assistance (official).

Master checklist (most common steps first)

• Confirm zoning for your location and business type (including home-based) with the City’s Planning counter before you sign a lease or spend on buildout. City Hall: (661) 259-2489. Check land use/zoning pages via City of Santa Clarita — Planning & Zoning (official).
• Apply for a Santa Clarita business license. Start via the City’s business license page on City of Santa Clarita — Official Website (official). Have ID, EIN/SSN, business address, and activity details ready.
• Register your business structure with the California Secretary of State (if forming an LLC, corporation, or limited partnership). File online at California Secretary of State — bizfile Online (official).
• File your initial Statement of Information with the CA Secretary of State within 90 days of registering an LLC or corporation, and then periodically (LLCs every two years, corporations annually). File at bizfile Online — Statements of Information (official).
• File or verify Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) with FinCEN by your deadline (see BOI section below). File at FinCEN BOI E-Filing (official).
• Get a California Seller’s Permit if you sell retail goods, certain services, or taxable items in CA. Apply at CDTFA — Seller’s Permit (official). It’s free to obtain, though a security deposit may be required for some businesses.
• If using a trade name (anything other than your exact personal legal name or your entity’s exact registered name), file a Fictitious Business Name (DBA) with L.A. County and publish it in a local newspaper as required. Start at L.A. County Clerk — FBN (official).
• Hiring employees? Register with EDD for payroll taxes within 15 days of paying more than $100 in wages in a calendar quarter. Sign up at EDD — e-Services for Business (official). Call 1-888-745-3886 for help.
• Secure workers’ compensation insurance before your first employee works a minute. Learn more at CA DIR — Workers’ Compensation Overview (official). Info line: 1-800-736-7401.
• Industry permits (restaurants, food trucks, salons, childcare, contractors, alcohol, etc.). Use CalGOLD to see all requirements and then apply with the correct agency (often L.A. County Public Health for food, CSLB for contractors, ABC for alcohol).

Quick reality checks

• Expect multiple approvals (zoning, occupancy, signs, health, fire) before your license is fully valid to operate.
• Buildouts and inspections can take weeks to months if you need construction, grease traps, hoods, or special equipment.
• Some activities are banned or restricted in specific zones (e.g., auto repair, certain industrial uses in retail zones, or cannabis businesses if prohibited).

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Table: Core licenses and registrations most businesses in Santa Clarita need

Note: Always verify fees directly on the linked official pages before you pay. Fees change, and some filings offer multiple processing options at different price points.

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Start here: Zoning and location clearance (do this before you apply)

Why first: If your use isn’t allowed at your address, or if you need upgrades (parking, fire, accessibility), you can lose months and thousands of dollars. Verify compatibility before you sign a lease or start home-based operations.

Action steps:

• Contact the City of Santa Clarita Planning counter early. Ask about allowed uses for your specific address, parking requirements, hours limits, and whether a conditional use permit (CUP) or building permits are required. City Hall: (661) 259-2489. See City of Santa Clarita — Planning & Zoning (official).
• For home-based businesses, request the home occupation rules and any permit or registration. Many cities allow low-impact home businesses with rules about traffic, signage, inventory, and employees on-site.
• If tenant improvements are needed (e.g., hood systems, accessible restrooms, fire sprinklers), you’ll likely need permit plans and multiple inspections. Expect timelines from a few weeks to several months depending on scope.
• If you share space (e.g., commissary kitchens, coworking, makerspaces), confirm the location has the right approvals for your specific use and that you’re listed as a tenant or sub-permittee as needed.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Ask Planning about alternative zones where your use is permitted as-of-right to avoid a long CUP process.
• Consider nearby locations with previous approved uses similar to yours (e.g., take over a former restaurant if you’re opening one).
• For home-based companies, consider a low-impact model (by-appointment only, no on-site sales) if the rules restrict traffic or noise.

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The Santa Clarita Business License (City business tax certificate)

Most important: You generally must obtain a Santa Clarita business license before you begin operations within city limits. Apply through the city’s licensing page and be ready to submit details about your business activity, location, ownership, and any required approvals (zoning, health, fire).

How to apply:

• Go to the city’s business licensing page via City of Santa Clarita — Business Licensing (official). Many California cities use a third‑party licensing portal for online applications; the city page will link you to the correct portal.
• Prepare your documents: legal name and trade name (if any), ownership type, names and IDs (EIN or SSN/ITIN), business address/parcel, home occupation form (if home-based), state license numbers if applicable (contractors, salons, etc.), and resale/seller’s permit number if you sell taxable goods.
• Fees: City business license fees vary by business category and sometimes by employee count, square footage, or receipts. The city fee schedule is posted on the official site. Pay attention to add‑on fees (e.g., fire inspection, stormwater, or program surcharges where applicable).
• Processing: If your application requires Planning, Building, Fire, or Health sign‑off, expect additional review time. In straightforward cases, approvals can be quick; in complex cases, plan for weeks.
• Renewal: Most city business licenses are annual. Mark your renewal due date and keep your address and contact info current.

Reality check:

• If you’re located outside Santa Clarita but regularly do business in the city (e.g., contractors, mobile services), the city may require you to obtain a business license as an out‑of‑city vendor. Confirm your obligations before you start work.
• Licenses can be put on hold if required inspections aren’t passed or if state/county permits are missing.
• Sign permits are usually separate. Don’t install signs before city approval.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Call the City’s main line (661) 259-2489 and ask for Business Licensing for help with category selection, fee questions, and status checks.
• Visit the Planning counter (City Hall address: 23920 Valencia Blvd., Santa Clarita, CA 91355) to resolve zoning/occupancy issues in person.
• If your business category isn’t listed, ask how the city classifies similar activities. Provide a clear, simple description of what you actually do day‑to‑day.

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State registrations and taxes (LLC, corporations, BOI, and annual costs)

This section covers the California and Federal filings most entities need, plus the real recurring costs that often surprise new owners.

Choose a structure and register (if applicable)

• Sole proprietors and general partnerships can operate without forming an entity, but you may still want an EIN and FBN. Consider liability and tax implications with a CPA or attorney.
• LLCs, corporations, and limited partnerships must file formation documents with the California Secretary of State (SOS). Use CA SOS — bizfile Online (official) to file Articles and then file your Statement of Information within 90 days.
• Keep a registered agent with a reliable California address to avoid missing legal mail.

Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) — mandatory federal report

Most small companies must report their beneficial owners to FinCEN. There’s no fee, but penalties can be significant for not filing.

• Where to file: FinCEN — BOI E‑Filing System (official).
• Deadlines (as of 2025; verify on FinCEN for any changes):
  • Companies created before 2024: Filing due by January 1, 2025.
  • Companies created in 2024: File within 90 days of formation.
  • Companies created on or after January 1, 2025: File within 30 days of formation.
• Source: FinCEN — BOI Small Entity Compliance Guide (official).

California Franchise Tax Board (FTB) — annual costs you should budget

These are the recurring state-level costs many new owners don’t plan for.

• LLCs (most common for small businesses):
  • Annual tax: $800 minimum tax due to the FTB each year. Source: FTB — LLC Annual Tax (official).
  • Gross receipts fee (in addition to the $800 tax):
    • $0–$249,999: $0
    • $250,000–$499,999: $900
    • $500,000–$999,999: $2,500
    • $1,000,000–$4,999,999: $6,000
    • $5,000,000 or more: $11,790

    Source: FTB — LLC Fee (official).

  • Due dates: The $800 annual tax is generally due by the 15th day of the 4th month of your taxable year; the gross receipts fee is due by the 15th day of the 6th month. Confirm your due dates with your tax advisor. Source: FTB — LLC Tax and Fee (official).
• Corporations:
  • Most corporations pay at least the $800 minimum franchise tax annually (with certain first-year exceptions historically; verify current rules). Source: FTB — California Corporation Franchise or Income Tax (official).
• Sole proprietors:
  • No entity-level FTB tax. You’ll pay income tax on your Schedule C. If you have employees or collect sales tax, you still have those obligations.

Table: California entity recurring obligations (typical)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If the $800 is a dealbreaker, talk to a CPA about operating as a sole proprietorship initially, then converting later. Consider liability exposure carefully.
• If you missed a Statement of Information or BOI filing, file immediately; late penalties escalate. Call SOS if needed: see CA SOS — Contact (official). FinCEN help: FinCEN — Contact (official).

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Sales and use tax (CDTFA): Seller’s Permit, rates, and returns

Most retailers and many service providers must collect and remit California sales tax. Santa Clarita businesses register with the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA).

Key points:

• Seller’s Permit: It’s generally free to obtain. Apply online at CDTFA — Seller’s Permit (official). CDTFA may ask for a security deposit for higher-risk accounts.
• Rates: California’s base statewide rate is 7.25%. Additional district taxes may apply by location. Use CDTFA’s official lookup to confirm the combined rate for your exact address: CDTFA — Find a Sales and Use Tax Rate (official).
• Resale: If you buy goods for resale, provide your vendor a valid resale certificate and keep copies. See CDTFA — Resale Certificates (official publication).
• Filing frequency: CDTFA assigns monthly, quarterly, or annual filing based on your expected volume. File and pay through your CDTFA online account.
• Use tax: If you buy items without paying CA sales tax and use them in California (including online orders), you may owe use tax.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Call CDTFA at 1-800-400-7115 for account setup, rate, nexus, or filing issues.
• If you received a delinquency notice, file missing returns even if you had zero sales to stop penalties from growing.
• If you’re near the city boundary (e.g., Valencia vs. unincorporated areas), confirm your correct jurisdiction and tax rate via the CDTFA tool.

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Fictitious Business Name (DBA) in Los Angeles County

If you operate under a name other than your exact legal name (or your entity’s registered name), you must file a Fictitious Business Name (FBN) in L.A. County and publish it in a legally adjudicated newspaper.

Steps:

• Search and file your FBN with the L.A. County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk: LA County — FBN Portal (official). Phone: (800) 201-8999 or (562) 462-2177.
• After filing, publish the statement in an adjudicated newspaper once a week for four consecutive weeks within 30 days of filing (verify your instructions packet for exact deadlines and lists of newspapers).
• File the proof of publication by the stated deadline to complete the process.

Reality check:

• Banks may require your filed FBN and proof of publication before opening an account under your trade name.
• Fees and newspaper costs vary; confirm amounts on the official L.A. County site and directly with the publisher.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If a name is taken, consider adding a descriptive modifier (e.g., “SCV,” “Valencia,” or your initials) and re-search.
• If you missed your publication deadline, contact the County Clerk to ask whether you must refile and republish.
• If you incorporated or formed an LLC, you may not need an FBN if you use the exact registered entity name; confirm with the County Clerk.

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Employer basics in California (EDD, payroll taxes, posters, workers’ comp)

Hiring triggers several immediate obligations. California is strict about payroll, recordkeeping, and insurance.

Action steps:

• Register as an employer with the EDD within 15 days of paying more than $100 in wages in a calendar quarter. Register via EDD — e-Services for Business (official) or call 1-888-745-3886.
• Payroll taxes you’ll withhold/remit include Unemployment Insurance (UI), Employment Training Tax (ETT), State Disability Insurance (SDI), and California Personal Income Tax (PIT). New employer UI rates and SDI rates/wage bases change periodically; see EDD — Rates and Withholding Schedules (official) for current figures. The UI taxable wage base is typically $7,000 per employee per year; verify on EDD’s current rate table.
• Post required workplace posters and provide new hire notices. Download from California Department of Industrial Relations — Workplace Postings (official).
• Workers’ compensation insurance is mandatory for any employee in California, even for one part-time worker. Learn options at CA DIR — Employers’ Workers’ Comp Guide (official). Info line: 1-800-736-7401.
• Paid sick leave: State law requires at least 40 hours or 5 days of paid sick leave annually for most employees (effective 2024). Check current rules and any local updates via CA Labor Commissioner — Paid Sick Leave (official).
• Minimum wage: Santa Clarita does not have a separate city minimum wage. Use the California statewide minimum wage and verify any changes each January at CA Labor Commissioner — Minimum Wage (official). If you operate in unincorporated L.A. County or other nearby cities with local ordinances, confirm those rates separately.

Table: Key California employer thresholds and tasks

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If payroll is overwhelming, use a reputable payroll provider that supports California compliance (EDD e-file, SDI, sick leave accrual, posters).
• If you misclassified workers as contractors, work with counsel or your CPA to correct going forward; see CA Labor Commissioner — Independent Contractor vs Employee (official).

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Industry-specific permits (most common in Santa Clarita)

Use CalGOLD to generate your full list: CalGOLD Permit Assistance (official). Below are the most frequent for the Santa Clarita area.

Restaurants, food trucks, catering, and food manufacturing

• L.A. County Public Health permits: Restaurants, markets, bakeries, mobile food facilities, and commissaries must obtain permits from Environmental Health. Start at LA County Public Health — Environmental Health (official). Help line: (888) 700-9995.
• Plan check: If you’re building or remodeling a food facility or a mobile unit, you’ll need plan check approval. Expect multiple reviews and inspections.
• Food safety: Employees need California Food Handler Cards; at least one Certified Food Protection Manager is typically required. See LA County Public Health — Food Safety (official).
• Cottage Food (home-based food): California allows certain non-potentially hazardous foods from home kitchens under CFO rules (Class A/B). Apply through L.A. County Env. Health. See LA County — Cottage Food Operations (official).
• City approvals: Don’t skip city building, fire, and sign permits. If the previous use wasn’t a restaurant, budget time and cost for grease traps, ventilation, and ADA upgrades.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Consider starting under Cottage Food (if your product qualifies) or renting a permitted commercial kitchen/commissary to reduce upfront buildout.
• Use the SBDC at College of the Canyons ((661) 362-5900) for menu costing, licensing timelines, and health plan check prep: SBDC — College of the Canyons (official).

Retail shops and online sellers

• Seller’s Permit is required for taxable sales: CDTFA — Seller’s Permit (official).
• Zoning: Confirm customer-facing retail is allowed at your address and that parking and signage meet city rules. City Hall Planning: (661) 259-2489.
• Home-based retail: Typically limited to online or by-appointment sales with no foot traffic or inventory storage visible from outside. Ask the city for home occupation specifics.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Consider a licensed shared retail space, pop‑ups, or markets that already have the right permits and occupancy.
• Use the city’s small business resources or SBDC to find alternative locations.

Alcohol sales (restaurants, bars, markets, breweries/wineries)

• California ABC license required. Start with ABC — License Types and Requirements (official). General line: (916) 419-2500.
• Zoning: Confirm your location allows alcohol use and whether a conditional use permit (CUP) is required.
• Public notice and protest periods apply; processing can take weeks to months.
• Responsible Beverage Service (RBS) Training is required for servers/managers in on‑premises establishments. See ABC — RBS Training Program (official).

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Consider beer/wine (Type 41) instead of full liquor (Type 47) to reduce complexity.
• Seek a location with an existing license you can transfer with ABC approval.

Contractors and construction trades

• State license: Most construction work over $500 requires a CSLB contractor’s license. Start: Contractors State License Board — Getting Licensed (official).
• Bond and insurance: A contractor license bond of $25,000 is required. See CSLB — Bond and Insurance Requirements (official).
• City business license: Required for work performed within Santa Clarita; confirm classification and fees with the city.
• Permits: Building permits and inspections are required for most construction. Contact City Building & Safety via City Hall (661) 259-2489.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you’re starting small, subcontract under a licensed contractor while you prepare for your own exam and financial requirements.
• Use CSLB’s resources to prep for exams and learn compliance timelines.

Salons, barbers, spas, and body art

• State license: Cosmetology and barbering professionals and establishments must be licensed by the Board of Barbering and Cosmetology. See BBC — Licensing (official).
• County health: Body art (tattoo, piercing) requires L.A. County Public Health registration and inspections. See LA County — Body Art Program (official).
• City approvals: Confirm tenant improvements, plumbing, ventilation, and signage with the city.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Consider a booth rental or suite in a licensed salon while you build clientele and complete your own establishment licensing.

Childcare and youth programs

• State license: Most non-family childcare facilities require licensing by California Community Care Licensing Division (CCLD). Start at CCLD — Child Care Licensing (official).
• City zoning: Confirm location suitability, parking, and occupancy limits.
• County Health/Fire: Additional inspections may apply.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Explore small family child care home options (with different rules) or partner with an existing licensed facility for space.

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Real-world examples (Santa Clarita scenarios)

• Home-based graphic designer in Saugus: Confirms home occupation rules with the city, files city business license; no seller’s permit needed since services are non-taxable; keeps client meetings off-site to avoid traffic/parking issues at home. Verifies that her DBA “SCV Pixel Studio” is properly filed and published with L.A. County. Sources: City of Santa Clarita — Business Licensing (official), LA County — FBN (official).
• Valencia boutique retailer: Leases a space previously used for retail to avoid a change-of-use buildout. Registers with CDTFA for a seller’s permit, obtains city business license, and confirms sign permits before installation. Uses CDTFA Rate Lookup (official) to charge the correct combined rate at checkout.
• Newhall coffee shop: Navigates city Planning and Building permits, L.A. County Public Health plan check, and fire inspections. Applies for ABC beer/wine license (Type 41) to expand offerings. Consults SBDC at College of the Canyons for lease review and timeline planning. Sources: Public Health — Environmental Health (official), ABC — Licensing (official), SBDC — College of the Canyons (official).
• Canyon Country residential contractor: Holds a CSLB B-General license, maintains a $25,000 bond, registers with EDD after hiring an apprentice, and obtains a city business license to work within Santa Clarita. Sources: CSLB — Getting Licensed (official), EDD — Employer Registration (official).

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Table: Typical timeline from idea to opening

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Costs you should budget (non-fabricated, official notes)

Some costs are fixed by statute or rarely change; others vary by activity and location. Where exact amounts vary or change frequently, we link the official fee schedule rather than risk incorrect numbers.

Table: Key recurring costs (California and local)

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Sales tax rate in Santa Clarita

• The statewide base rate is 7.25%. Many locations have additional district taxes. Use the official CDTFA tool to find the current combined rate for your exact Santa Clarita address: CDTFA — Find a Sales and Use Tax Rate (official).
• Do not guess your rate; rates can differ across the street when jurisdictions or districts change.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Call CDTFA at 1-800-400-7115 with your storefront or home address and ask them to confirm the correct rate and district codes for your returns.

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Inclusivity, diversity, and accessibility: targeted resources in California

No matter your background, there are programs to help you compete for contracts, get certified, and find capital. Below are well-established, credible options (government or nationally recognized).

Women-owned businesses:

• Federal WOSB/EDWOSB certification for SBA contracting: SBA — WOSB Program (official). Free certification pathway via SBA.
• California state procurement (SB/DVBE) open to all small businesses; see below.

Minority-owned businesses:

• National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC) certification connects you with corporate supplier opportunities: NMSDC — Certification (established national certifier).
• Check local corporate supplier diversity portals (e.g., utilities, hospitals, and universities in LA County).

Veteran-owned businesses:

• California Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE) certification for state contracting: CA DGS — DVBE Program (official).
• Federal Veteran Small Business Certification (Vets First) administered by SBA for VA contracts: SBA — Veteran Certification (official).

LGBTQ+-owned businesses:

• National LGBT Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC) certification for supplier diversity: NGLCC — Get Certified (established national certifier).

Disabled-owned businesses:

• Supplier Diversity certification via Disability:IN for Disability-Owned Business Enterprise (DOBE): Disability:IN — Certification (established national certifier).

Immigrant-owned and language access:

• LA County Office of Immigrant Affairs offers multilingual assistance and small business navigation through the Department of Consumer and Business Affairs: LA County OIA (official). Main DCBA line: (800) 593-8222.
• Free advising in Spanish and other languages is available at SBDC — College of the Canyons (official). Phone: (661) 362-5900.

California small business certifications (open to all who qualify):

• CA DGS Small Business (SB) and Microbusiness certification for state contracting: eligibility often includes 100 or fewer employees and average annual gross receipts less than or equal to $15 million (SB) or $5 million (Micro). Verify current thresholds and apply free at CA DGS — Small Business Certification (official).

Accessibility:

• Make your storefront and website accessible. See the U.S. Access Board guide for small businesses: Access Board — ADA Accessibility Guidelines (official).
• For physical access upgrades, ask City Building & Safety about requirements and timelines. City Hall: (661) 259-2489.

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Common mistakes to avoid (learned locally)

• Signing a lease before checking zoning and buildout requirements with the city.
• Assuming a prior tenant’s use automatically covers you (even “similar” uses can trigger different codes).
• Forgetting the BOI deadline with FinCEN; penalties can be steep.
• Mixing pre-opening expenses and personal spending in one bank account; it complicates tax filings and audits.
• Collecting the wrong sales tax rate or not filing zero-returns when required.
• Hiring “independent contractors” who actually meet the test as employees under California’s ABC test.
• Missing your Statement of Information filing with the CA Secretary of State.
• Not budgeting the $800 annual FTB tax (and LLC fee if applicable).
• Installing signs without a city sign permit.
• Operating food or body art without county health approvals.

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Santa Clarita-specific planning notes and realities

• Industrial vs. retail: A use that’s fine in an industrial park (e.g., auto repair, light manufacturing) may not be allowed in a retail center. Confirm before you tour.
• Parking ratios: Customer-facing uses may require more parking than offices. If a center is at capacity, you might need a conditional use permit (CUP) or a different space.
• Outdoor dining and signage: These can have their own permit paths and design standards.
• Home-based: Expect limits on on-site customers, employees, deliveries, and signage. Clarify expectations with the city in writing.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Ask Planning to provide comparable zones/addresses where your use is permitted as-of-right.
• If a CUP is unavoidable, map out time and cost. Speak with neighbors early if your use generates traffic, noise, or late hours.

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Frequently asked questions (California-focused)

• Do I need a Santa Clarita business license if my LLC is registered in another state but I sell in the city?
  • If you conduct business within Santa Clarita (deliveries with installation, on-site services, regular work), the city may require you to obtain a business license. Call (661) 259-2489 to confirm how your activity is classified. Source: City of Santa Clarita — Business (official).
• What’s the total sales tax at my address?
  • Use CDTFA’s official tool to get the exact combined rate: CDTFA — Find a Sales and Use Tax Rate (official). Do not rely on generic search results.
• Is the California Seller’s Permit really free?
  • Yes, there’s no application fee. CDTFA may require a security deposit in some cases. Apply here: CDTFA — Seller’s Permit (official).
• When is my CA Statement of Information due?
  • LLCs: within 90 days of registration, then every two years during your filing period.
  • Corporations: within 90 days of registration, then annually during your filing period.
  • File online: CA SOS — Statements of Information (official).
• How much is the annual California tax for an LLC?
  • $800 minimum annual tax plus a gross receipts fee based on revenue brackets ($900, $2,500, $6,000, $11,790). Source: FTB — LLC Tax and Fee (official).
• Do I need a DBA (FBN) if I formed an LLC?
  • Only if you use a trade name different from your LLC’s exact legal name. File with L.A. County Clerk and publish as required: LA County — FBN (official).
• I’m hiring my first employee. When do I register with EDD?
  • Register within 15 days of paying more than $100 in wages in a calendar quarter. Do it early so payroll runs smoothly: EDD — Employer Registration (official). Phone: 1-888-745-3886.
• What is the UI wage base in California?
  • Historically $7,000 per employee per year. Confirm the current wage base and rates on the official EDD page: EDD — Payroll Tax Rates (official).
• Do I need L.A. County health permits for a coffee cart or food truck?
  • Yes. Most mobile food enterprises require plan check, a commissary, and permits from L.A. County Environmental Health: Public Health — Environmental Health (official). Phone: (888) 700-9995.
• Do I need a city license if I only sell online?
  • If your business is based at a Santa Clarita address (including home), you generally need a city license even if you sell online only. Confirm with the city at (661) 259-2489. Source: City of Santa Clarita (official).

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What to prepare: documents and info most applicants need

• Government ID for owners and responsible parties.
• EIN letter (IRS) or SSN/ITIN if sole proprietor.
• Formation documents (Articles of Organization/Incorporation) and Statement of Information (if filed).
• Business address and parcel/APN, lease or proof of permission; site plan if requested.
• Seller’s Permit number (CDTFA) if selling taxable goods.
• FBN filing confirmation (if operating under a trade name).
• State professional licenses (e.g., CSLB, cosmetology, ABC, CCLD).
• For food facilities: plan check set, equipment list, menu, commissary agreement (mobile), and food safety manager certificate.
• Proof of workers’ comp insurance (if you have employees).

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“If this doesn’t work” — escalation and help directory

Table: Who to call when stuck

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Plan your compliance year: calendar reminders

• City license renewal: Put your renewal month on your calendar; renew before the due date to avoid penalties. See the city business license page for renewal timelines: City of Santa Clarita — Business Licensing (official).
• FTB due dates: LLC annual tax $800 (month 4), LLC fee (month 6), corporate franchise tax (varies by entity and fiscal year). Confirm with your CPA and FTB (official).
• CDTFA: Sales tax return due dates based on your assigned filing frequency. Log in regularly to check messages: CDTFA Online Services (official).
• EDD: Payroll deposit schedules and quarterly returns; missing one creates rapid penalties. See EDD — Payroll Taxes (official).
• CA SOS: Statement of Information for LLCs every two years, corporations annually, initial filing within 90 days of formation: bizfile Online (official).
• BOI (FinCEN): Within 30 days for companies formed on or after 1/1/2025; 90 days for those formed in 2024; and by 1/1/2025 for those formed before 2024. See FinCEN — BOI (official).

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Troubleshooting by situation

Leased a space and now city says you need a CUP or buildout?

• Ask Planning for a pre-application meeting to map exact requirements and timelines.
• Negotiate with your landlord for tenant improvement credits or contingency clauses.
• Consider relocating to a previous similar use to avoid a change-of-use.

Filed an FBN but missed the publication deadline?

• Contact the L.A. County Clerk at (562) 462-2177 about next steps; you may need to refile and republish.
• Keep your newspaper receipts and proof of publication documents for banking.

Sales tax rate confusion at checkout?

• Use the official CDTFA rate tool and keep a screenshot in your records: CDTFA — Find a Rate (official).
• If you sell online for delivery, ensure you’re charging based on the ship-to destination when required.

Payroll and labor law overwhelm?

• Start with top priorities: workers’ comp, accurate timekeeping, and paying at least the current minimum wage and overtime.
• Call EDD 1-888-745-3886 for account help. Download required posters: DIR — Workplace Postings (official).

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Deep-dive: BOI deadlines (table)

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Practical tips to save time and money

• Ask the city about “like-for-like” locations. A site that previously housed your same use can dramatically reduce plan check, time, and cost.
• Build a simple compliance binder: licenses, permits, insurance, BOI confirmation, SOS filings, CDTFA letters, EDD account info, and inspection reports.
• For food businesses, schedule mock inspections with your team before the real one.
• Use the SBDC ((661) 362-5900) for free one-on-one help on licensing, leases, and projections.
• Keep cash reserves for the first year’s taxes and renewals (e.g., $800 FTB LLC tax, city license renewal, insurance, and any quarterly sales/payroll taxes).

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What to do if you operate in the unincorporated county (not inside city limits)

Some addresses near Santa Clarita are in unincorporated L.A. County. Those areas have different rules, including the county’s own business licensing for certain activities.

• Use the L.A. County jurisdiction look-up or ask CDTFA to confirm your jurisdiction and district taxes: CDTFA — Find a Rate (official).
• For unincorporated areas, check LA County Department of Economic Opportunity and LA County Business License (Treasurer & Tax Collector) for activities that require a county license. Verify by calling the county if needed.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Call the City (661) 259-2489 with your exact address; ask if it’s within city limits and what your next step should be.
• If unincorporated, call the County’s general info line (213) 974-3211 or check the County business license page above.

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Source notes and verification dates

• City of Santa Clarita — official site: https://www.santa-clarita.com (official). Checked August 2025.
• CalGOLD Permit Assistance: https://calgold.ca.gov (official). Checked August 2025.
• CDTFA Seller’s Permit and rate lookup: https://www.cdtfa.ca.gov/taxes-and-fees/sellers-permit.htm and https://www.cdtfa.ca.gov/taxes-and-fees/sales-use-tax-rates.htm (official). Checked August 2025.
• L.A. County Clerk — FBN: https://lavote.gov/home/county-clerk/fictitious-business-names (official). Checked August 2025.
• IRS — EIN: https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/apply-for-an-employer-identification-number-ein-online (official). Checked August 2025.
• FinCEN — BOI Reporting: https://www.fincen.gov/boi (official). Checked August 2025.
• CA Secretary of State — bizfile Online: https://bizfileonline.sos.ca.gov (official). Checked August 2025.
• FTB — LLC Tax and Fee: https://www.ftb.ca.gov/file/business/types/limited-liability-company/ (official). Checked August 2025.
• EDD — Employer Registration and Payroll Taxes: https://edd.ca.gov/en/Payroll_Taxes/ (official). Checked August 2025.
• CA DIR — Workers’ Compensation and Workplace Postings: https://www.dir.ca.gov/dwc/employer.htm and https://www.dir.ca.gov/wpnodb.html (official). Checked August 2025.
• LA County Public Health — Environmental Health: http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/eh/ (official). Checked August 2025.
• ABC — Licensing and RBS: https://www.abc.ca.gov/licensing/ and https://www.abc.ca.gov/education/rbs/ (official). Checked August 2025.
• CSLB — Getting Licensed and Bonds: https://www.cslb.ca.gov/Contractors/Applicants/ and https://www.cslb.ca.gov/contractors/Applicants/Bond_Requirements.aspx (official). Checked August 2025.
• CA DGS — Small Business and DVBE: https://www.dgs.ca.gov/pd/programs/OSDS (official). Checked August 2025.
• SBDC — College of the Canyons: https://cocsbdc.org (official). Checked August 2025.

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About This Guide

• Scope: This guide focuses on licensing and permits for businesses operating within the City of Santa Clarita, California, and commonly required county/state/federal registrations.
• Sources: We link only to official government or well-established organizations. Figures like the $800 FTB tax and LLC fee brackets come directly from the Franchise Tax Board. Sales tax processes come from CDTFA. Employer rules come from EDD and DIR. Where city fee amounts vary or change, we provide direct links to official schedules instead of guessing.
• Updates: Regulations, fees, and agency procedures change. Always verify directly with the linked official sources. If you find an update, call out the change when you contact city staff so they can guide you correctly.

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Disclaimer

This guide is for general information only and is not legal, tax, or financial advice. Program rules, fees, deadlines, and eligibility can change at any time. Always verify details with the City of Santa Clarita, Los Angeles County, the State of California, and the relevant federal agencies using the official links and phone numbers provided above. If your situation is complex, consider consulting a qualified attorney or CPA.