Title 6 of the San Luis Obispo County Ordinance provides for regulation of businesses operating in the unincorporated areas of the County.

The purpose of this brochure is to provide information for obtaining a County Business License and a Directory of other agencies that businesses may need to contact. It may not include all the necessary requirements for a business, as regulations and requirements vary according to type of business, location and other factors.

Individuals or corporations who sell merchandise or provide a service for a fee in the unincorporated areas of San Luis Obispo County (outside city limits) may need a County Business License. For Business License information within city limits, see the Directory section of this brochure.

IN ADDITION, individuals who initiate contact by any method (telephone, mail, or in person) for the purpose of presenting merchandise or performing a service at a later date may need a Solicitor's License.

The Business License Clerk will prepare an application and direct you to the proper department(s) for approval. When the approvals are completed, and the license fee is paid, a County Business License will be issued.

Whether or not a County Business License is required, all businesses must obtain approval of the County Planning Department . Certain businesses also require the approval of other County Departments, some of which may require processing fees.

Licenses are issued for various periods of time, up to one year, and renewal notices are mailed prior to the expiration date.

County Business Licenses are not transferable. Changes in ownership, business name, nature of business or location must be reported IMMEDIATELY and are subject to approvals of other departments.

If a name other than your own is used for the business, a Fictitious Business Name must be registered with the San Luis Obispo County Clerk-Recorder within 40 days of starting the business. Banks usually require this prior to opening an account in a business name.

Sales or use tax may apply to your business activities.  You may seek written advice regarding the application of tax to your business by writing to the nearest Board of Equalization Office.

Firms with employees must register with the Employment Development Department (EDD) for Unemployment Insurance (UI), State Disability Insurance (SDI), State Income Tax Withholding, and with the Internal Revenue Service for a Federal Income Tax Withholding Identification Number. State Law also requires that businesses with employees must carry Workers' Compensation Insurance.

California Law exempts certain individuals or businesses from obtaining a County Business License or exempts them from the fee associated with the County Business License. Contact the Business License Clerk at (805) 781-5832 for exemption requirements.