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Why isn't there an expiration date on my business tax certificate?

In order to save paper, postage, and staff time, we are no longer printing new certificates every time a license is renewed, unless there is a significant change such as a new business name or address. Our online registry displays expiration dates.

My bank/mortgage company or another government agency wants to see my business license.

Third parties occasionally ask to see your business license. On the top of our main business license webpage, there is a business registry search feature that third parties can use to see if your San Rafael business license is current.

Will the City of San Rafael notify me when it is time to renew my license?

As of January 1, 2022, the City no longer mails paper renewal notices, but will continue to send renewal notices via email. However, it is your responsibility to renew your business license in a timely manner even if the renewal notice is not received. Penalties are assessed on delinquent accounts, regardless of whether you received...

I mailed my Business License renewal by the due date. Why was I charged late penalties?

As indicated on the renewal notice, your renewal must be physically received by the City by the due date. We do not accept postmarks.

The City received my business license renewal only a few days after February 15. Why was I charged late penalties?

Annual renewals are due January 1 (unless you operate a financial institution, an insurance company, or a non-profit on a July - June renewal cycle). There is a 45-day grace period, after which penalties are assessed. If your payment was received after February 15, you were actually more than 45 days late.

Why am I being charged a Fire Inspection Fee on my business license renewal?

Commercial locations are periodically visited by Fire Inspectors for compliance with life safety regulations. This fee covers the cost of these inspections. If you have additional questions about this fee, please contact the Fire Prevention Bureau.

Can I make installment payments on my balance due?

Yes, we typically allow people to make payments. However, depending on the amount due and the number of installments, we may require you to sign a promissory note and to pay interest and a processing fee. Please contact the Business Tax Division at (415) 485-3051 for details.

Are there any restrictions on where I do business?

Every business must abide by the City’s zoning requirements. Before signing any lease or rental agreement, please contact the City's Planning Division to make sure your business activity is appropriate for the area's current zoning designation and that it will not require a public hearing or special parking considerations.

Do I need a seller's permit?

Most businesses engaged in the sale of tangible goods require a California Seller's Permit in addition to obtaining a business license. To apply, contact the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration. California Department of Tax and Fee Administration 50 D Street, Room 230 Santa Rosa, CA 95404 (707) 890-6267 www.cdtfa.ca.gov

What about selling food?

If selling or preparing food is a part of your business, you must apply for a health permit from the County of Marin Food Program in addition to obtaining a business license. Environmental Health Services 3501 Civic Center Drive San Rafael, CA 94903 (415) 473-6907 www.marincounty.org/depts/cd/divisions/environmental-health-services

Does San Rafael regulate business signage?

Check with the City's Planning Division Sign Requirements before using or installing any type of sign, flag, or banner, even balloons. Permanent and temporary signs require review and approval prior to issuance of permits and installations.

Do I need a Fictitious Business Name?

Check with the Marin County Clerk to see if you need a Fictitious Business Name in Marin. Marin County Clerk 3501 Civic Center Drive #234 San Rafael, CA 94903 (415) 473-6772 www.marincounty.org/depts/ar/divisions/county-clerk/fbn

What is BID?

In the downtown area, there is a Business Improvement District (BID), which is comprised of standard and premium zones. If you are thinking of starting up a business downtown, you might want to review the map below to see if your address falls within either of the zones. If so, you may be charged a...

Can I leave handbills at homes to advertise my business?

No, you can't distribute any commercial handbill or advertising at any homes without having permission of the owner or occupant.

Is my business information confidential?

Only certain information is available to the public – for example, business and owner names, physical and mailing addresses, and business types. This information is printed on your business license certificate. We do not disclose phone numbers, e-mail addresses, or financial information to the public, except as required by law. Per Business and Professions Code...

Is my business license tax deductible?

Your business license tax is generally deductible, but you should consult your tax adviser about your particular circumstance.

How do I file a complaint about a business?

We don't regulate business conduct, but you can contact the Marin County District Attorney’s Consumer Protection Unit and/or the Better Business Bureau.

How do I start a business?

San Rafael is a great place to start and grow a successful business. We are the economic heart of Marin County and home to many incredible companies. From biotech to real estate, finance to auto sales, construction to education; one of our most notable restaurants grew from our farmers' market! Our Economic Development department is here for you.

What are San Rafael Sanitation District's boundaries?

Locations north of Puerto Suello Hill is within the boundary of Las Gallinas Valley Sanitation District, and locations south of Puerto Suello Hill is within the boundary of San Rafael Sanitation District. Check out our service area!

Updates to City Hall Hours on Fridays in July and August

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