Starting a new business

Before you apply

The details of your business operation will determine the type of federal, state, county, and city licenses, permits, certificates and approvals you will require prior to commencing business. Information on these various requirements are provided below with appropriate Internet links.

For additional 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.

Get a business license tax application

Business license tax application forms are available at City Hall.

City of Santa Ana Tax and Licensing Office
20 Civic Center Plaza – Ross Annex 1st Floor, Room 1100
Santa Ana, CA 92701

Please call the Business Tax staff at (714) 647-5447 to discuss your business's requirements. Application forms can be mailed, faxed or emailed (BusinessTax@santa-ana.org) upon request.

California Disability Access and Education Fund Fee

Under federal and state law, compliance with disability access laws is a serious and significant responsibility that applies to all California building owners and tenants with buildings open to the public.  You may obtain information about your legal obligations and how to comply with disability access laws at the following agencies:

California Government Code Section 4469

Note:  Effective January 1, 2013 California Government Code Section 4467 requires that all persons applying for or renewing any local business license or equivalent instrument or permit be subject to a state mandated fee for the state Disability Access and Education Revolving Fund.  California Government Code Section 4469 requires that that all such persons receive the information quoted above concerning disability access obligations under federal and state law and how to receive information about how to comply with disability access laws.

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