Apply/Renew for a Business License / Certificate

Application Process/Apply Online

Apply for a New Business Tax Certificate online: https://ltss.oaklandnet.com/Home/Index or at the Business Tax Office. A non-refundable business registration fee plus special fees (SB1186 State Disability Access and Education Fund and Recordation and Technology), are due within 30 days of the business or rental start date.

Once your application is accepted and processed, you will receive an email verifying our receipt of your application, including the amount due and instructions on how to pay online. You can pay by Mastercard, Visa, Discover Card or an ATM/Debit Card. You will receive an email containing your certificate from the Business Tax Office within 5 days. Please make sure to check your spam/junk email folders. Oakland based businesses should obtain Zoning Clearance prior to applying for a Business Tax Certificate. If you are a seller of wholesale or retail goods, you are required to apply for a California Seller's Permit. Both the Seller's Permit and the Zoning Clearance should be listed on the Business Tax Application.

Renewal

Business taxes must be paid annually, on or before March 1st of each year. It is your responsibility to renew your certificate on time and/or to notify the Business Tax Office if you have not received your annual renewal declaration(s). You have the option to renew and pay online: https://ltss.oaklandnet.com/Home/Index

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