Service name

• Employment Development Department – From time to bond with your newborn, support to find a job, resources to focus on your recovery after an illness or injury, or the guidance and support to manage a successful business in California.
• Santa Ana WORK Center – The Santa Ana WORK Center connects youths and adults to career services, resources and job opportunities.
  Phone: 714-565-2600

• Free diaper distributions – Local organizations are providing diaper banks throughout Orange County in collaboration with Community Action Partnership.
• Library Technology Services – Check out wireless hotspots, Chromebooks and laptops for free from Santa Ana Public Library.
• Santa Ana Public Library eLibrary – Get instant access to all digital resources at the Santa Ana Public Library from home or on the go with a free eLibrary card.
• Santa Ana Public Library Online Tutoring – The Santa Ana Public Library provides free online homework help for students in grades K-12.
• Senior Cruisers – Free transportation for seniors over age 60 who live in Santa Ana.
  Phone: 714-571-4285
• Family Justice Center – The Santa Ana Family Justice Center operates in partnership with local nonprofits at Santa Ana Police Department to provide support and services for victims of domestic violence, human trafficking, elder abuse, child abuse and more.
  Phone: 714-245-8278
• Boys & Girls Clubs – Since 1955, the Boys & Girls Club of Santa Ana has been committed to tackling some of the most challenging social issues that impact this densely-populated community.
  Phone: 714-543-7212
• Help Me Grow Orange County
  Free screenings, referrals, and developmental information for children from birth to 8 years old and their families
  Phone: 866-476-9025
• OC Clerk Records Office – Obtain copies of birth, death, and marriage certificates
  Phone: 714-834-2500
• OC Office of Aging – If you are an older adult with any need, call this assistance call center.
  Phone: 714-480-6450
• OCCTAC (Orange County Children’s Therapeutic Arts Center)
  Free arts-based after-school programs, youth employment training, and early childhood education for Santa Ana families.
  Phone: 714-547-5468
• Regional Center of Orange County (RCOC)
  Offers free lifelong services and case management for children and adults with developmental disabilities.
  Phone: 714-796‑5100

Post Offices/Passport Services (Santa Ana only)

1. United States Postal Service & Passport Services:
   
   615 N BUSH ST.
   SANTA ANA, CA 92702-9998.
   714-973-7721
2. United States Postal Service:
   
   2201 N GRAND AVE.
   SANTA ANA, CA 92711-9998.
   714-667-6734
3. United States Postal Service:
   
   1620 W 1ST ST.
   SANTA ANA, CA 92703-9998.
   714-541-1033
4. United States Postal Service:
   
   1415 S MAIN ST.
   SANTA ANA, CA 92707-9998.
   714-836-0353
5. United States Postal Service:
   
   1609 N KING ST.
   SANTA ANA, CA 92706-9998.
   714-835-3098
6. United States Postal Service:
   
   1517 S GREENVILLE ST.
   SANTA ANA, CA 92704-9998.
   714-545-1716
7. United States Postal Service & Passport Services:
   
   3101 W SUNFLOWER AVE.
   SANTA ANA, CA 92799-0100.
   714-662-6474
8. United States Postal Service:
   
   2230 S GRAND AVE.
   SANTA ANA, CA 92735-9998.
   714-667-6733

• MediCal Medical Benefits – Available for qualified California residents regardless of immigration status
• Delhi Center Mobile Clinic – Every first Wednesday of the month from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and third Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
  Phone: 714-481-9600
• Latino Health Access – Health programs and chronic disease prevention and management for the uninsured.
  Phone: 714-542-7792
• The Cambodian Family – Health programs and chronic disease prevention and management for the uninsured
  Phone: 714-571-1966
• UCI Family Health Center – Family, children and women’s healthcare, dental services, and more in Santa Ana
  Phone: 657-282-6355
• Serve the People Community Health Center – Low‑cost medical, dental, vision, behavioral health
  Phone: 714-352-2911
• Clarke Lew Medical Group – Provides primary care, preventive screenings, mental health and women’s health services
  Phone: 949-243-7788
• Medical Care Expense Assistance – Search 2-1-1 Orange County
• United We Dream – Mental health resources
• OC Health Agency – The Orange County Health Care Agency is a regional provider, charged with protecting and promoting individual, family and community health through coordination of public and private sector resources.
• St. Jude Neighborhood Health Centers – Affordable health services for insured and uninsured residents

• Straight Talk Clinic – Comprehensive mental health services including free crisis intervention
  Phone: 714-828-2000
• BeWellOC – Mental health and substance use treatment services to all residents of Orange County, regardless of insurance type or ability to pay
  Phone: 855-625-4657 for mental health or substance abuse challenges
  Phone: 949-749-2500 for non-crisis calls
• Orange County Health Care Agency Behavioral Health Services – Services to prevent mental health crisis
• RESET Toolbox (Orange County Department of Education) – Digital tools and self-paced resources to support resilience and emotional well-being in youth and families.
  Phone: 949-900-5388
• Mosaic Movement – Provides counseling and supportive services to children, adolescents, and adults
• Families Together of Orange County – Behavioral health services for lower-income and uninsured families
  Phone: 800-597-7977
• St. Jude Neighborhood Health Centers – Affordable mental health services for insured and uninsured residents
• Norooz Clinic Foundation – Affordable mental health services
  Phone: 714-386-9171

• Orange County Housing Authority – OCHA administers federally funded programs to provide rental assistance to qualified tenants in privately owned rental housing
• Family Solutions Collaborative – Housing assistance for families experiencing homelessness
• Orange County Rescue Mission – Housing communities and support for people experiencing homelessness
  Phone: 714-247-4379
• Illumination Foundation – Emergency and bridge housing, case management and coordinated entry for families and individuals
  For families needing housing, call: 714-507-2490
  For individuals needing housing, call: 714-507-2459
• Lutheran Social Services of Southern California – Housing referrals and motel/rental assistance vouchers for short-term housing.
  Phone: 714-534-6450
• Fair Housing Council of Orange County – Fair housing education, landlord /tenant counseling and enforcement services
  Phone: 714-569-0823
• City of Santa Ana Affordable Housing List
• Santa Ana Housing Authority – Provide affordable housing for the most vulnerable members of our community to use as a platform to obtain self-sufficiency and independence from our assistance
  Phone: 714-667-2284
• Orangewood Foundation – They focus on supporting young people in Orange County, with a hot meal, a safe place to stay, and a plan for the future
  Phone: 714-619-0200
• Rental Assistance – Search 2-1-1 Orange County

• Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program – Provided through Community Action Partnership
  Phone: 714-839-6199
• Delhi Center Utility and Phone Bill Assistance – Connects residents with programs to help with bills
  Phone: 714-481-9600
• Discounted Telephone Services – Search 2-1-1 Orange County
• Discounted Internet Services – Search 2-1-1 Orange County
• Water Service Payment Assistance – Search 2-1-1 Orange County

• General Relief – County-funded program that provides temporary cash aid to eligible indigent adult lawful residents who are ineligible for Federal or State programs
  Phone: 800-281-9799
• CalFresh – Federal program offering financial help to purchase nutritious food. Undocumented parents can apply for CalFresh on behalf of their U.S. citizen or eligible immigrant children.
  Phone: 800-281-9799
• California Work Opportunity and Responsibility to Kids (CalWORKs) – Provides cash benefits for the care of children in need when one or both parents are absent, disabled, deceased or unemployed
  Phone: 800-281-9799
• Cash Assistance Program for Immigrants (CAPI) – Provides cash to certain aged, blind and disabled legal non-citizens ineligible for Supplemental Security Income/State Supplemental Payment (SSI/SSP) due to their immigration status
  Phone: 800-281-9799
• Refugee Cash Assistance – Cash aide is provided to individuals with refugee, asylee, or trafficking-victim status who have been determined to be ineligible for CalWORKs or SSI/SSP
  Phone: 800-281-9799

• Asian American Senior Citizens Service Center – Provides fresh produce and other essential services
• Project Food Box – California residents with Medi-Cal can qualify for a weekly box of fresh produce
  Phone: 949-673-0783
• The Seva Collective – Free drive-through food pantry and food delivery
  Phone: 714-584-7573
• Meals on Wheels – Free meal delivery for homebound seniors age 60+
  Phone: 714-823-3294
• Senior Food Assistance – Meals and emergency food assistance for seniors are available at City of Santa Ana Senior Centers. Must sign up on site at a senior center.
• Summer Meal Sites – The federal Sun Meals program offers free meals to families with children under 18 at locations across Orange County. Enroll to receive Sun Bucks payments here.
• Second Harvest Food Bank – Find partner locations in Santa Ana and Orange County for free food distributions.
  Phone: 949-653-2900
• Delhi Center Food Pantry – Every Monday 10-11:30 a.m.
  Phone: 714-481-9600
• Serve the People Community Health Center Food Pantry – Food is provided 4-7 a.m. on the first and third Saturday of each month
  Phone: 714-352-2911
• Community Action Partnership Orange County – Food distributions and assistance with CalFresh, HEAP, rental & utility relief.
  Phone: 714-667-0717
• More food assistance programs – Search 2-1-1 Orange County

• Know Your Rights – Tips from the ACLU for when you are stopped by law enforcement
  Phone: 213-977-9500
• Immigrant Legal Resource Center – Connect with attorneys and organizations that offer assistance
• Orange County Rapid Response Network – Immigration information and resources.
  Rapid Response Hotline: (714) 881-1558
• Immigrant Legal Resource Center Family Preparedness Plan – Save, download and print this preparedness plan and checklist
• Immigrant Defenders Law Center (IMMDEF)– Free immigration services, resources and trainings
  Phone: 213-634-0999 (for services or to speak to staff)
  Phone: 213-833-8283 (to reach the rapid response legal resource line)
• National Immigration Law Center – Immigration resources and guides
  Phone: 213-639-3900
• Public Law Center – Free immigration legal clinics (asylum, DACA, green cards), family law, domestic violence, housing and foreclosure aid
  Phone: 714-541-1010 x332
• Orange County Labor Federation – Free immigration services and programs
  Phone: 714-385-1534
• Asian Americans Advancing Justice Southern California – Immigration Services and Resources
  Phone: 888-349-9695
• Orange County Office of Immigrant and Refugee Affairs – The Office of Immigrant and Refugee Affairs’ mission is to build a more robust direct service infrastructure that promotes belonging, economic prosperity and equity of immigrants and refugees.
• Catholic Charities of Orange County – Provides citizenship services, including free citizenship education, free or low-cost naturalization, and refugee services
  Phone: 714-347-9610
• CWS Orange County – Provides refugee resettlement and immigration assistance
  Phone: 949-438-1066
• Human Options – Legal and support services for relationship/domestic violence
  Phone: 877-854-3594
• Informed Immigrant – Immigration resources and information
• Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights (CHIRLA) – Immigration legal services, deportation defense, DACA
  Phone: 888-624-4752
• Community Legal Aid SoCal – Legal assistance for immigration, housing, public benefits and more
  Phone: 714-571-5200 or 800-834-5001
• Council of American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) – Immigration and civil rights legal assistance
  Phone: 714-776-1847
• Orange County Justice Fund – Legal services for immigrants and refugees who are detained or facing deportation
  Phone: 714-340-5469
• Orange County Rapid Response Network – Tips, guides, resources and a hotline for immigration operations
  Phone: 714-881-1558
• Camino Immigration Services – Immigration legal services and resources
  Phone: 657-217-2365
• World Relief Southern California – Immigration legal services
  Phone: 714-210-4730
• Office of Congressman Lou Correa – Get help with a federal agency
• Mexican Consulate in Santa Ana – Services for Mexican citizens
  For consular support/protection or emergencies: call 714-504-2796 or email amendoza@sre.gob.mx.
• U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Inmate Locator – Locate anyone detained by ICE for over 48 hours
• America On Track – Provide services to children of family members who have been detained by authorities
  Phone: 714-531-7144
  Email: PR@AmericaOnTrack.org
• UCI Immigrants Rights Clinic – Clinic students, working under close faculty supervision, provide direct representation to immigrants on matters ranging from detention and deportation defense. Contact Debi Gloria, Law Clinic Administrator:
  Email: dgloria@law.uci.edu
  Phone: 949-824-9646
• iAmerica – The national immigrant justice campaign platform of the Service Employees International Union (SEIU).
• More immigration services – Search 2-1-1 Orange County

• Law enforcement can stop, detain, or search you if they have ‘reasonable suspicion’ that you are involved in criminal activity. However, law enforcement cannot search you based on your race, gender, religious, or country of origin.
• Law enforcement have the authority to ask you about your immigration status, the purpose of your visit, and other questions to determine whether you have permission to enter the U.S.
• Remaining silent can result in law enforcement denying you entry into the U.S. You can choose not to answer questions, but law enforcement can and likely will deny you permission to enter the U.S.
• You DO NOT have the right to have an attorney when you are being questioned about your immigration status. But you can have an attorney present for questions unrelated to your status.
• You have the right to claim fear of returning to your home country. If you are told that you do not have permission to enter the U.S., but you fear persecution or torture if sent back to your home country, tell the border agent and ask for asylum. You may be eligible for immigration relief.
• ALWAYS SPEAK to an immigration lawyer before leaving the U.S. In some cases, if you leave, you may not be allowed to come back into the country for a certain number of years.

• Consult with an immigration attorney with deportation or removal experience.
• Signed DHS Form G-28: This form allows an attorney to speak on your behalf. If ICE detains you far from your attorney, getting it signed after the fact can delay your case. You can search ‘G-28 form’ online and sign it in advance or access it here: Learn more about and download the G-28 form
• Signed ICE Form I-246: This form requests a pause on deportation. Just like the G-28 form, it should be signed before detention to avoid delays. Search ‘I-246 ICE’ online, print, and sign it in advance or access it here: Download the I-246 Form

• You have the right to REMAIN SILENT. You do not have to answer any questions about your immigration status, background, or your colleagues. If you answer questions, Immigration may ask you for your immigration documents.
• DO NOT attempt to run away. Immigration will suspect that you are undocumented and attempt to arrest you. It is safer to continue working, ask if you are being detained, and calmly ask if you may leave.

• You generally have the right to REMAIN SILENT. You do not have to answer questions about your immigration status, where you were born, where you live, where you are from, or whether you have documents. Even if you have answered some of their questions, you can decide to not answer more questions. You should never lie about your immigration status, as that can have serious consequences.
• You have the right to SPEAK TO A LAWYER. You should speak to a lawyer before you answer questions about your background or immigration status.
• If you have valid immigration documents, you should show them when asked. The law requires immigrants who have been issued valid immigration documents to carry those documents with them at all times. If you are undocumented, you can refuse to answer questions about your immigration status or whether you have documents.

• DO NOT let Immigration into your home and DO NOT step outside. Immigration must have a warrant signed by a judge or an occupant’s consent to enter your home. ICE will often trick you into giving consent by saying they are investigating a crime or need to “take a quick look around” or “come in to talk.” They might also show you a warrant that isn’t signed by a judge.
• ASK to see the warrant. They can slip it under the door or hold it up to a window. Do not step outside.
• CHECK if the warrant is signed by a judge. If they do not have a warrant or it isn’t signed by a judge, say, “I don’t want to talk right now.” or “I do not have to let you in.”

• ANY law enforcement agent may try to ask you questions about your background, immigration status, family members and colleagues, among other topics. This includes not just Immigration, but also local and state police and federal agents from several different law enforcement agencies.
• ‘Immigration’ usually refers to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Patrol (CBP). ICE and CBP are in charge of immigration enforcement within the United States and at the border, respectively. ICE agents often impersonate ‘police’ by wearing police badges, tactical gear, and other police indicia, and by announcing themselves as police.

We offer English and Spanish workshops for current and new Santa Ana business owners. In these workshop you will learn about zoning, business license, resources, business formation, and more.. Please see below for dates and times of upcoming events, and how to register.

English – Business Start Up Workshop

• Dates:
  • 9/10/25
  • 10/8/25
  • 11/12/25
• Time:  11:00 AM – 12:30 PM
• Location: Santa Ana City Hall (Room 1600)
• Register Here

Spanish – Business Start Up Workshop

• Dates:
  • 9/17/25
  • 11/19/25
• Time:  11:00 AM – 12:30 PM
• Location: Santa Ana City Hall (Room 1600)
• Register Here

You may apply for a business license by coming in person to City Hall and obtaining and completing the appropriate application, or you may contact the business tax office by phone to have the applications mailed, emailed, or faxed.

Yes. For more information please visit the Business License website.

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.

A business license is an annual non-regulatory licensing fee levied by individual California cities and counties for the privilege of conducting business within a particular city or county jurisdiction. Business license fees are due and payable prior to commencing business within a particular city or county. The fees assessed are intended to raise revenue for the general operating requirements of individual cities and counties. City of Santa Ana business license revenue is used to pay for Police, Fire, and Safety expenses as well as other general operating costs of the City.

If your business is in the unincorporated area of Orange County, the licensing agency is the Orange County Sheriff Office, located at 550 N. Flower Street, in Santa Ana. For information please contact their office at (714) 647-7000 and ask for business licensing.

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 to business licensing. A separate license is required for each separate type of business conducted at the same location and for each separate branch or business property location.

• Work exempt from permit includes the following:
  • One story detached accessory structures used as a tool or storage shed, playhouses and similar uses, provided the floor area does not exceed 120 square feet.
  • Fences not over seven (7) feet high (A front-yard fence permit is required from the Planning Division for fences located in the front yard)
  • Oil derricks
  • Retaining walls that are not over 4-feet in height measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall, unless supporting a surcharge of impounding Class I, II or IIIA liquids.
  • Water tanks supported directly on grade if the capacity does not exceed 5,000 gallons and the ratio of height to diameter or width does not exceed 2:1.
  • Sidewalks and driveways not more than 30-inches above adjacent grade, and not over any basement or story below and are not part of an accessible route.
  • Painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, counter tops and similar finish work.
  • Temporary motion picture, television and theater stage sets and scenery.
  • Prefabricated swimming pools accessory to a Group R-3 occupancy that are less than 24 inches deep, do not exceed 5,000 gallons and are installed entirely above ground.
  • Shade cloth structures constructed for a nursery or agricultural purposes, not including service systems.
  • Swings and other playground equipment accessory to a detached one-and two-family dwellings.
  • Window awnings supported by an exterior wall that do not project more than 54 inches from the exterior wall and do not require additional support of Groups R-3 and U occupancies.
  • Non fixed and movable fixtures, cases, racks, counters and partitions not over 5 fee 9 inches in height.

Any owner or authorized agent who intends to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish, or change the occupancy of a building or structure, or to erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert or replace any electrical, gas, mechanical or plumbing system, the installation of which is regulated by code, or to cause any such work to be done, shall first make application to the building official and obtain the required permits.

• Many types of permits may be issued to the owner of the property or authorized agent, or to a licensed contractor. Photovoltaic (Solar) permits shall only be issued to a licensed contractor.

• The appropriately licensed contractor must provide proof of licensing, available for verification through the California Contractors State Licensing Board and the contractor must obtain a current City of Santa Ana business license.

Every business operating from residential premises within the City is required to obtain a Home Occupation Permit and comply with 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  pay for their Business License.

For information on obtaining a Home Occupation Permit, please call (714) 647-5804 or email PlanningDepartment@santa-ana.org.

Apply here for a home occupation permit.

Application for a permit may be made at the public counter. You may also need to submit construction drawings for plan check review that detail your proposed improvements. There are many handouts to help you through this process and our counter staff can provide expert guidance if you need assistance.

A permit is an official document or certificate issued by the City which authorizes performance of a specified activity.

Permits help to ensure that minimum codes, regulations, local ordinances and safety requirements are properly followed in residential and commercial structures.

There are several different types of permits, based on the type of construction:

• Building Permits
• Electrical Permits
• Plumbing Permits
• Mechanical Permits

Application for a permits may be made at the public counter.  You may also need to submit construction drawings for plan check review that detail your proposed improvements.  There are many handouts to help you through this process and our counter staff can provide expert guidance if you need assistance.

A Certificate of Occupancy is required for any business enterprise that requires a City business license. Additional information can be found here.

Applications for Certificate of Occupancy are available via the following:

1. Online form
2. At the Planning counter, please click here to schedule your visit to City Hall (required).

There is a one-time processing fee to be paid upon approval of the Certificate of Occupancy application. Payments may be made online or in person after an application is submitted.

Once your application is approved, you will be provided information for scheduling the occupancy inspection. The Occupancy Inspection Checklist details what will be inspected.

To request an Occupancy Inspection, please call (714)647-5815 and be sure to have your Certificate of Occupancy Number (COO-####-##) and Business Tax Number (######) readily available. You can also schedule an Occupancy inspection by visiting https://permit.santa-ana.org/Occupancy-Inspections.

Note: The business must be moved in to the space or building before an inspection will be scheduled.

Now that you have found which zone your business address (or future business) is in, using the Property Information Search tool, let’s see what each zone means. Please click on each zone below for more zoning information and basic development standards:

• C1  Community Commercial
• C2  General Commercial
• C4  Planned Shopping Center
• C5  Arterial Commercial
• CR  Commercial Residential
• CSM  South Main Street Commercial District
• P  Profession
• GC  Government Center
• SD  Specific Development
• M1  Light Industrial 
• M2  Heavy Industrial
• O  Open Space Land
• A1  General Agricultural 
• R1  Single-Family Residence
• R2  Two-Family Residence
• R3  Multiple-Family Residence
• R4  Suburban Apartment
• RE  Residential Estate
• OZ1  Metro East Mixed Use Overlay Zone

Specific Plans

• SP1  Bristol Street Corridor Specific Plan
• SP2  Harbor Mixed Use Transit Corridor Specific Plan
• SP3 Midtown Specific Plan
• SP4  MainPlace Specific Plan
• SP5  Related Bristol Specific Plan

Starting a business in Santa Ana is an exciting opportunity and the City is here to help you succeed. Whether you’re opening a restaurant, retail shop, beauty salon, fitness studio, food truck, or launching a home-based service, Santa Ana offers a clear, step-by-step guide to get you up and running.

Please click here for a step-by-step guide on how to start your business.

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 the Planning and Building Agency at (714) 647-5804.

To check the zoning of your business address, please visit the property information search here: https://apps.santa-ana.org/property-info/

How to submit the Limited Authorization for Arrest Form
Print, fill out, and return it to us
Download, print, and complete the Limited Authorization for Arrest Form and fax or mail it to us:

You can fax the completed form to (714) 245-8098.
You can also mail it to us:
Santa Ana Police Department M-18
Police Service Officer
60 Civic Center Plaza, P.O. Box 1981
Santa Ana, CA 92702

Visit here for more information: https://www.santa-ana.org/limited-authorization-for-arrest-no-trespassing-program/

How to submit the Limited Authorization for Arrest Form
Print, fill out, and return it to us
Download, print, and complete the Limited Authorization for Arrest Form and fax or mail it to us:

You can fax the completed form to (714) 245-8098.
You can also mail it to us:
Santa Ana Police Department M-18
Police Service Officer
60 Civic Center Plaza, P.O. Box 1981
Santa Ana, CA 92702

Visit here for more information: https://www.santa-ana.org/limited-authorization-for-arrest-no-trespassing-program/

The Division 2- Just Cause Evictions provisions apply after a Tenant has continuously and lawfully occupied a Residential Real Property for thirty (30) days. See SAMC § 8-3120 (a).

No. A “Rental Agreement,” as defined under the Ordinance, may be written or oral.

A Tenant may submit a Tenant Petition to request review of any violation by a Landlord under the Ordinance. See SAMC § 8-3145 and the Ordinance Regulations, Policies and Procedures for all necessary requirement and procedures. A Landlord and Tenant may also agree to submit their dispute to voluntary mediation with a neutral third party. See SAMC § 8-3146.

Neither the Division nor the Rental Housing Board establish any type of standard fair return rent increase. Any Rent Increase in excess of the maximum allowable Rent Increase is determined either by a Hearing Office or the Rental Housing Board. See SAMC § 8-3145 and the Ordinance Regulations, Policies and Procedures for all necessary requirement and procedures.

A Landlord may submit a Fair Return Petition to the City to request a Rent Increase in excess of the maximum allowable Rent Increase in order for the Landlord to receive a “fair and reasonable return” on a Rental Unit. See SAMC § 8-3142 and the Ordinance Regulations, Policies and Procedures for all necessary requirement and procedures.

Neither the Division nor the Rental Housing Board establish any type of standard pass-through costs. Any pass-through cost allowable is determined either by a Hearing Office or the Rental Housing Board. See SAMC § 8-3145 and the Ordinance Regulations, Policies and Procedures for all necessary requirement and procedures.

A Landlord may submit a Capital Improvement Petition to the City to request a separate pass-through cost that may be charged to Tenant(s) in addition to the Rent for a Rental Unit. Detailed documentation of expense and adherence to specific provisions of the Ordinance. See SAMC § 8-3143 and the Ordinance Regulations, Policies and Procedures for all necessary requirement and procedures.

The Rental Registry generates an automatic payment receipt for the payment of the Rental Registry Fee, and Landlords may provide a copy of the payment receipt to their Tenants.

If a Landlord refuses to provide a copy of the payment receipt to a Tenant, the Tenant can contact the Division to receive a confirmation for the payment of the Rental Registry Fee.

Creation of a Rental Registry account is available to each Landlord/Owner or their representative of a Rental Unit/Residential Real Property within in the City. A numeric PIN (Personal Identification Number) generated by the City is required to access a specific Rental Unit. A property manager for a Rental Unit/Residential Real Property may provide the Division with the operative property management agreement (and possibly other documents) in order to again access to the PIN. A Landlord/Owner, in the alternative, may provide the PIN to their property manager.

No. Landlords in the City may pay several different fees to the City including, but not limited to, the Rental Registry Fee, Business License Tax, and Proactive Rental Enforcement Program (PREP) fees.

Landlord can verify their Rental Registry Fee payment status and amount due/paid via the Rental Registry, or Landlords may contact the Division to confirm payment information.

The contact information for various other programs is below and not a comprehensive list of contact information.

No. Landlords are required to provide written notice of a change of ownership through the Rental Registry within thirty (30) days of the close of escrow. See SAMC § 8-3160.

Written notices submitted by mail to the Division will not be processed.

Yes. Landlords are required to submit accurate and complete Registration Forms on an annual basis. See SAMC § 8-3160.

No. Invoices are generated electronically in the Rental Registry after the Registration Form is submitted.

The Division mass mailed invoices during the first program year to facilitate Initial Registration for Rental Units in the Rental Registry, and the Division will no longer continue the practice. Invoices will only be generated electronically within the Rental Registry.

No. The Fee pass-through is not considered part of the Rent. The Fee can be noted as a payable fee separate from Rent.

No. The Fee pass-through is not considered part of the Rent in calculating any Rent Increase.

After timely payment of the Rental Registry Fee, a Landlord may pass through up to fifty percent (50%) of the Fee to Tenant(s) of the applicable Rental Unit, to be paid by the Tenant in twelve (12) equal monthly installments.

For the upcoming billing period of July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026, a Landlord can pass-through 50% of $100 which is $50. The Landlord may split the $50 pass-through fee in twelve (12) equal monthly installments.

The Rental Registry Fee for each Rental Unit for the program year July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026 is $100.

The amount of the Fee is determined by resolution of the City Council adopted from time to time and set forth in the City’s Miscellaneous Fee Schedule. See SAMC § 8-3161 (a).

Landlords are required to pay the City a Rental Registry Fee for each Rental Unit owned in the City that is subject to the Ordinance.

The Rental Registry Fee is a fee adopted per City Council to support the cost to implement, administer, monitor, support, and enforce the provision of the Ordinance.  See SAMC § 8-3161.

No. The annual process of Rental Unit registration includes filing an annual claim of exemption. If the claim of exemption and requisite supporting documents are not submitted by July 1 of each year for any Rental Unit, the Rental Unit shall be deemed to be subject to the provisions of the Ordinance. See SAMC § 8-3160(d).

Landlords may raise a Tenant’s Rent once every 12 months, and the Rent Increase cannot be more than the City’s maximum allowable Rent increase percentage.

The Rent Stabilization Division will announce the annual maximum allowable Rent increase percentage by June 30^th of each year, and it shall be effective on September 1^st of each year.

The Rent Stabilization Division will determine the maximum allowable Rent Increase on the lesser number of 3% or 80% of the percent change in the Consumer Price Index (CPI).

The previous program year’s registration period ended on January 31, 2025. If a Landlord recently completed a Registration Form and paid the Rental Registry Fee, after January 31, 2025, the Registration was late.

The current program year is July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, so Landlords are receiving a notice to comply with the current program year.

Rental Unit registration is an annual requirement. The Rent Stabilization Division will send a notice about annual registration every year. See SAMC § 803160 (f).

Yes. The City may assess additional late charges. See SAMC § 8-3161 (c).

The City may commence enforcement against any Landlord who fails to register a Rental Unit, or provide current and accurate data regarding a Rental Unit.

No Landlord shall advertise for rent, demand or accept Rent for a Rental Unit, or evict any Tenant from a Rental Unit, if the Rental Unit Registration is not complete and accurate. No Rent increases shall take effect for any Rental Unit unless the Landlord has accurately completed the Rental Unit Registration. See SAMC § 8-3160 (k).

July 1, 2025.

Rental Unit registration completed on July 2, 2025 or later will be considered a late registration.

During the Newhope Library’s closure and renovation, access to Library collections will be limited. Please visit the new Delhi Library branch, the Outdoor Library Kiosk at Jerome Park, the Knowledge Mobile, or online at the eLibrary for access to Library collections including books, eResources, and all other materials.

Yes. You can sign up for a library card at the Delhi Library branch, any of Knowledge Mobile’s stops, Pop-Up Library locations, along with El Salvador Community Center, Garfield Community Center, Jerome Center, and Roosevelt-Walk Center. See our website for library locations and service hours. A library card is free for all California residents. You can also click here to request a temporary online card through our online borrower registration page.

Yes. The eLibrary will continue to offer eResources, including eBooks, audiobooks, and videos. Click here to visit our eLibrary webpage to view all online resources.

No. The Santa Ana Public Library has been fine-free since 2021. Patrons are still responsible for returning all items they borrow to avoid charges for lost items and materials.

A new library branch inside the Delhi Community Center is expected to open on July 3, 2025, and an innovative Outdoor Public Library in Jerome Park is also anticipated for July 2025.

Pop-up library services are available at City Hall on Mondays and will be available at Rosita Park once a week. Library Services and programs will continue to be available at various community centers throughout Santa Ana including Jerome, Roosevelt, Garfield, and El Salvador Community Center. In addition, the Knowledge Mobile will continue to make stops throughout the community, including Rosita Park, offering books, resources, programs, and services.

Public computers and printing are available at the following Community Centers: Jerome, Roosevelt, and Garfield.

During the renovation, the book drop-off box will be relocated onsite to remain accessible to patrons who need to return materials. Starting July 3, the Delhi Library will provide holds, receive book returns, and offer a full array of programs and services to the community. Patrons can also return library materials and pick up holds at various community centers throughout Santa Ana including Jerome, Roosevelt, Garfield, and El Salvador Community Center. Knowledge Mobile staff can also place holds for patrons, but due to space limitations, holds cannot be picked up at bookmobile stops.

Beginning July 2, 2025, the Newhope Library will begin an exciting renovation to enhance library facilities and services for the entire community. Highlights of this renovation include a new glass storefront-style entrance and lobby, a brand-new Innovation Center with upgraded technology for STEM learning, a fully renovated outdoor patio with new seating and shade structure, a new reimagined colorful and inviting building façade, and a fully modernized interior.

This Library is expected to reopen to the public in Spring 2026. Once construction is finalized, the community will be invited to a grand opening celebration. Visit our website for updates on this project.

Keeping business and personal finances separate is essential for tax and legal purposes.

A solid business plan increases your chances of success. Free resources are available:

• SBDC (Small Business Development Center)
Phone: (800) 616-7232
Website: Home – OCIE SBDC

• SCORE Orange County
Phone: (714) 550-7360
Website: Orange County | SCORE

Employers must register with the Employment Development Department (EDD).

Phone: (888) 745-3886
Cost: $0
Website: Employers: Payroll Tax Account Registration

Depending on your business type, you may need:

• Liquor Stores and Restaurants Serving Liquor – Liquor License
Phone: (714) 558-410
Website: Apply for a New License | Alcoholic Beverage Control

• Manufacturing and Emissions – Air Quality Permit
Phone: (909) 396-2000
Website: Permits | AQMD

Required if you are selling a product in the State of California.

Cost: $0
Application: CDTFA Online Services
Website: Obtaining a Seller’s Permit

Businesses serving food must comply with the City of Santa Ana’s FOG program.

Cost: Free to enroll (additional fees for appliances may be necessary)
Website: Fats, oils, and grease control program – City of Santa Ana
More Info: Food Service Establishment – Fats, Oils, Grease Application Form

Required for businesses operating out of a physical location.

Cost: $147 (Tier 1) or $544 (Tier 2)
Website: Certificate of Occupancy Application | City of Santa Ana
Schedule Inspection: Occupancy Inspections

Required to operate a food establishment in the County of Orange.

Cost: $460 – $2,817
Application: Food Health Permit Application
Fee Schedule: Food Facility Permit Fee Schedule
More Info: Food Facility Health Permit | Orange County California – Health Care Agency

Taxi businesses operating in Orange County must obtain an OCTAP permit to operate legally.

Application: OCTAP Company Permit Application
Website: Orange County Transportation Authority

If operating oversized or overweight vehicles, obtain a special transportation permit through the California Department of Motor Vehicles.

Cost: $35 – $2,500 (varies by vehicle weight and type)
Website: Caltrans – Transportation Permits | Caltrans
More Info: How To Apply | Caltrans

A business license is required to operate in Santa Ana. Contact the Business Tax Office for applications and fees.

Phone: (714) 647-5447
Cost: $57
Website: Business license & related services – City of Santa Ana

Required for food trucks and carts in Orange County. First-time permits must be obtained through OC Environmental Health.

Cost: $183 – $488 annual fee
Application: Mobile Food Facility Health Permit Application 2023.pdf
Fee Schedule: Mobile Food Facility Permit Fee Schedule
More Info: Mobile Food – Trucks and Carts | Orange County California – Health Care Agency

Obtain a Home Occupation Permit before applying for a business license.

Cost: $54
Website: Home Occupation Permit | City of Santa Ana
More Info: Home-based businesses are not required to obtain a Certificate of Occupancy (COO).