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Homelessness Documents

January 2022 “Point-In-Time Count,” a study of the number of individuals experiencing homelessness in San Rafael and Marin County Monthly statistics on individuals moving from homelessness to housing and shelter New housing resources for individuals and families in Marin County

What is a business license?

A business license is a tax for doing business. The San Rafael Municipal Code requires that you obtain a license to conduct business within the city limits of San Rafael, even if your physical office is located outside city limits. A business license is not a permit. It is not evidence that the holder is...

San Rafael launches public test of future city website

San Rafael (Calif.), the largest city in Marin County, has released a public test version of its future website as part of an effort to increase civic engagement prior to an official launch in December 2016. “We’re excited about this fresh new digital face of the City,” said Mayor Gary Phillips. “We look forward to...

Done/Doing (#9)

Here's an update of what we've done and what we're doing next to better serve San Rafael. Done Added more layers to the map with helpful descriptions. Drafted department descriptors. Created FAQs for business licenses & parking. Audited all the broken links. Incorporated feedback from department directors. Added under construction symbols to areas of the...

Volunteer Spotlight: Reverend Jan Heglund

Describe your volunteer activity with San Rafael? Reverend Jan is a volunteer in the San Rafael Police Chaplain Program. Before being ordained as an Episcopalian priest in 1994 she raised four children and worked at San Rafael High School for 20 years as the Secretary to the Vice Principals of Discipline. As a San Rafael...

Who is required to have a San Rafael business license?

Anyone who conducts business within San Rafael city limits must obtain a business license.

I am paid on a 1099 basis, not as a W2 employee. Do I need a business license?

Yes, if you are not paid as an employee, you are considered an independent contractor and are required to have a business license.

Does a non-profit organization need a business license?

Yes. However, the business license tax is waived upon presentation of proof that the business has a non-profit status.

Do I need a license if I run a business out of my home?

Yes. In addition, a home-based business must comply with City of San Rafael Zoning Standards.

What if I have more than one business location?

A separate business license is required for each location.

I conduct business in several cities. Can I get one license for all cities?

No, each city has its own business license requirements, fees, and taxes. Check with the appropriate city or county for its rules and regulations.

I just purchased an existing business. Can I use the previous owner’s license?

No, a business license cannot be transferred. As a new owner, you need to apply for a business license in your name.

What if a corporate officer changes?

The president, treasurer, and other officers of a corporation may be shareholders, but they are not the owners of the business for our purposes.  We consider the corporation itself the owner of the business.  Just send us a follow-up email to BLRenewal@cityofsanrafael.org with updated contact information.

What if I want to move the business/change my business address?

Always check with the City's Planning Division to verify that the new location is zoned properly for the intended use and whether a Use Permit or another type of approval is required.  Please submit a new business license application for the new location.  If you are registered with other government agencies such as the State Board...

Why did I receive a business tax certificate?

“Business tax certificate” is simply a more accurate term for what is commonly referred to as a “business license.”  Our Finance Department collects business tax but does not regulate businesses; therefore, we are trying to minimize the use of the term “business license,” which suggests the granting of permission.

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. We also have a license verification letter that can be emailed to you, just email BLRenewal@cityofsanrafael.org or...

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

As of January 1st 2022, we have gone paperless. As a courtesy we will email your renewal reminder around 3 weeks before your expiration date to the email address on file. This email will have a direct link to the renewal portal along with the account number and PIN that you will need to log...

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.

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