Is my regular City of Santa Ana business license transferable?
A business license is not transferable. It is the responsibility of the owner or operator to advise the Business Tax Office of ownership changes, relocation or termination of business.
Archives: FAQs
What is a Home Occupation Permit and who is required to have one?
Every business operating from residential premises within the City is required to obtain a Home Occupation Permit and comply with any and all applicable provisions of the City of Santa Ana Municipal Code relating to home-based businesses. Home businesses must apply for and receive an approved Home Occupation Permit before they apply and pay for … Continued
How do I pay my business license tax?
The Santa Ana Municipal Code requires that a municipal business license tax be paid when conducting business within city limits. This tax is paid for by the business license fee when you apply and pay for a business license. For more information, visit the Business License Division’s website.
How do I start a business in the city?
To help you through the process of starting your own business, we’ve put together a quick guide. For more information about City of Santa Ana business licensing requirements, contact the Business Tax Office at (714) 647-5447. To inquire about City of Santa Ana zoning requirements for the type of business and its planned location, contact … Continued
Who is required to have a business license?
City law states that no person shall engage in business or transact and carry on a business, trade, profession, calling or occupation in the city without first having procured a license from the city to do so or without complying with any and all applicable provisions of the City of Santa Ana Municipal Code relating … Continued
How is the Residential Rental Business license tax assessed?
The business license tax for the rental of residential real estate is assessed per property, based on the ownership of the property. A separate business license is required for each separate rental property location. The business license tax assessment is made on a per unit basis and reflects the maximum number of rentable units making … Continued
I am renting to family members is this still considered to be a business? Do I have to get a business license?
Renting to family members is considered to be a business and a license is required. If you are renting only to immediate family members and the amount you receive is not more than the “cost of said premises” you may qualify for a “fee-exempt” license. To see if you qualify, download a Family Member Rental … Continued
What does Santa Ana consider a “Residential Rental Business”?
Municipal Code Section 21-3 defines the business of rental of residential real estate as including every person who engages in the business of leasing, renting, subleasing, subletting, providing, exchanging or trading without loss of ownership or leasehold any residential property within the City for purposes of general residency.
I live in Santa Ana, but my business is located outside of the city limits. Do I need to get a business license?
As long as your business location and all business activity are conducted outside the City of Santa Ana, there is no need to obtain a City of Santa Ana Business License. However, if you are conducting business based from your residence, or your residence is your business location, you will need to obtain a City … Continued
My business entity (corporation, LLC, partnership, LP, etc.) is dormant/passive and it is just paying a minimum tax to the Secretary of State. Is it required to get a business license?
Yes. If your business is registered as “active” with the Secretary of State and is reporting on a business return to the FTB and IRS, it will need a business license. Maintaining a business entity within the City, whether it is transacting public business or not, is considered operating a business under the municipal code … Continued