County Business Licenses

What is the process?

Apply for a business license

Information to bring to apply for a business license

  • Name of Business (You may file a fictitious business name)
  • Name and Address of Owner of Business Location (if not the same as applicant)
  • Name of Corporation Officers and Address of Home Office
  • Mail Order Business may be requested to submit a copy of its catalog for review
  • Completed Business License Application

Apply for a zoning clearance from Planning & Building

If you are not the property owner for the business location, you will need to provide written authorization from the property owner for your proposed business use. 

For more information, please visit Planning & Building's Business Clearance 

Receive approval from any other required agencies

Certain business types may require additional review and approval from other agencies. For example, a restaurant will require an inspection and permit from the County Health Agency.

Tax Collector staff will be happy to review your County Business License application with you and direct you to the appropriate agencies.

Who can use this service?

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 this service.

Is there a charge for this service?

Currently, most County Business Licenses require a $44 application fee. Most licenses then require a $34 renewal fee annually (a $4 required fee for the State Disability Access program is included in the application fee and renewal fee).

Certain special license types require additional fees. Please contact the ACTTC to confirm specific license fees.

When and where is this service offered?

This service is available throughout the year during regular business hours except during scheduled holidays.

Renew an existing Business License

Location, directions and hours of operation

Click on location name to show hours of operation, directions and phone information

Frequently Asked Questions

Second Installments of 2023/24 Annual Secured Property Tax Bills are due as of February 1st.

The second installment of the 2023/24 Annual Secured Property Tax Bill is due February 1st and will become delinquent if not paid on or before April 10th.  If you have specific questions about your tax bill, please contact the Tax Collector by email at [email protected] or by phone at (805) 781-5831.

If paying online: e-Check is free; fee for using credit or debit card. 

View or Pay Property Taxes by eCheck, Visa, MasterCard, Discover Card, or American Express