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1. How do I get an application for a City of Pismo Beach Business License?

Pick up an Application in person at the Administrative Services Department at City Hall (760 Mattie Road), download an application from the Website, or request by phone (805) 773-4655 or mail that an application be mailed or faxed to you.

In addition to a regular license to do business within the City there is a Contractor Business License and a Special Events Business License. Business License Application

2. How much does a business license cost?

Fees vary depending on type of business. For many retail and services businesses, the annual fee is based on the amount of Gross Receipts. A Home Occupation Permit is required if the business is conducted from a home in Pismo Beach. The fee for the Home Occupation Permit is $125.00.

3. What if my business is home-based?

Every business conducted from a home in the City of Pismo Beach must first get a Home Occupation Permit (from the City’s Community Development Department, Planning Division). Then submit the completed Home Occupation Permit to Administrative Services as part of the application for a City business license. Home Occupation Permit

4. Where do I get the application for a Home Occupation Permit?

Pick up an Application in person at the Community Development Department, Planning Division at City Hall, 760 Mattie Road, download an application from the Document Center at the City Website, request one to be emailed or mailed to you by calling (805) 773-4658. The fee for the Home Occupation Permit is $125.00.

Document Center

5. How long does it take to receive the business license?

Usually, Business Licenses are mailed about a week after receipt of a complete application (including payment).

6. How do I get a business license for special events, such as Art in the Park, Car Show, etc.?

In addition to a regular license to do business within the City there is a Special Events Business License. This application is for use by vendors with no permanent place of business in the City of Pismo Beach, and includes vendors who may do business only on selected days. Fees vary depending on one-time use, 6- or 12-month application.

Business License for Special Events

7. When do I need to renew my license?

Once you have a Business License, the City will automatically mail a renewal notice to the mailing address of record about thirty (30) days before the expiration date. If you do not receive a renewal notice before the expiration date, please contact the Finance Department. Failure to receive a renewal notice does not relieve the business owner of responsibility for renewing the business license - nor is it grounds for waiving any penalties due.

8. What if I sell my business?

A business license is not transferable. The license is terminated when business ownership changes. The new owner will be responsible for obtaining his/her own business license.

9. How do I obtain a Fictitious Business Name?

Fictitious business names are filed with the County of San Luis Obispo County Records Office in the City of San Luis Obispo. To contact the Records office, call (805) 781-5088 or visit their web page at www.slocounty.ca.gov. SLO Clerk-Recorder

10. How do I obtain a resale or sales tax permit?

To obtain a Seller's Permit, contact the State Board of Equalization at (800) 400-7115, or visit their web site. www.boe.ca.gov State Board of Equalization

11. If I hire someone to do work at my home, such as gardening or housekeeping services, do they need to have a City of Pismo Beach business license?

Yes. All persons or businesses doing work within the City limits are required to obtain a City of Pismo Beach business license. To verify if the person you hired has a business license, call (805) 773-4655.

12. What if I have a complaint about a business located in the City of Pismo Beach?

The City does not handle complaints about unfair business practice or poor service. If the complaint is regarding unfair business practice or poor service, contact the Better Business Bureau at (805) 963-2088 or visit their website. www.santabarbara.bbb.org or email them at info@santabarbara.bbb.org Better Business Bureau

13. What if I have a complaint about a contractor that I hired to do work at my home?

All complaints against contractors are handled through the Contractors State License Board. they can be reached at (800) 321-2752, or visit their website at www.cslb.ca.gov. Contractors State License Board