Do I Need a Business License in My City? (2026)
Updated: Nov 2
Quick answer: Most likely yes. In California, each city and county sets its own business license (business tax) rules, so your license comes from the city where you do business, or from the county if you are in an unincorporated area. A state permit, like a seller's permit or a contractor's license, does not replace the local license, and local licenses usually renew every year.
Hi, I'm Karla. "I already have my LLC, so I'm all set, right?" I hear this a lot. Your state registration is one piece; your city or county license is another, and the rules change from one city to the next.
The steps to get your local business license
Find out whose rules apply. If your business address is inside a city, like Concord or Walnut Creek, the city's rules apply. If it is in an unincorporated area, the county's rules apply.
Count every place you work. Concord requires a license for businesses working in the city even when their office is outside it. Contra Costa County requires a county license for work in unincorporated areas, even if you already have a city license. San Francisco requires registration within 30 days of starting business there.
Check home business and zoning rules. In Concord, home-based businesses need a separate home business approval along with the business license. Contra Costa County asks that zoning and building rules be met before you sign a lease or move in.
Line up your other registrations. Depending on your business, this can include a DBA, a seller's permit or, for contractors, a state contractor's license.
Apply with the right city or county. Each one has its own application and requirements.
Renew on time. A Concord license is required every year, Contra Costa County licenses renew each June 30, and San Francisco registration renews by the end of February.
Check for other permits. Depending on your type of business, other state or local permits may also apply.
Quick FAQ
I work from home. Do I still need a license?
Usually, yes. Concord includes many home-based businesses among those that need a license, and Contra Costa County says home-based, part-time and hobby businesses in unincorporated areas need one too.
I already have a seller's permit. Isn't that enough?
No. A seller's permit comes from the state (CDTFA) and covers sales tax. The business license comes from your city or county. Most businesses that sell products need both.
I'm a contractor who works in several cities. Do I need more than one license?
Often, yes. Many cities require a license for businesses working inside their limits, even if your office is somewhere else, so each city where you have jobs needs to be checked before you start.
What I do for you
Check your city and county licenses. I check your city, the county and every place you work, plus any home business rules.
Prepare and submit your applications. I gather your documents and complete each application with you.
Track your renewals. Every license renewal date goes on a calendar with reminders.
Let's do it together
Not sure which city or county license you need, or how many? I offer a free first consultation in English or Spanish, remote or in person, for small businesses in the Concord, CA area, serving Contra Costa, Alameda and San Francisco counties.
Karla I. Vasquez · KCK Professional Services by Karla
510-998-7004 · kckprofessionalservices@gmail.com · kckproservices.com
Sources: City of Concord, Business Licenses; Contra Costa County Treasurer-Tax Collector; Alameda County Treasurer-Tax Collector; San Francisco Office of the Treasurer & Tax Collector. Information current as of November 2026.
This article is general information to help you understand the process. It is not legal, tax or financial advice. Karla I. Vasquez and KCK Professional Services are not attorneys, CPAs or tax advisors and are not a law firm. Fees, forms and rules change, so always confirm with the official agency before you file. For advice about your situation, talk to a licensed attorney or tax professional.
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