Business License

The following information is provided to assist persons interested in establishing and conducting a business in the City of San Dimas. It is not warranted to be all inclusive. Any errors or omissions herein will not relieve the business owner of his/her responsibility, obligation or liability in fulfilling all legal requirements.

A business license is an annual tax required by all businesses doing business within the City of San Dimas, and it must be obtained before any business, profession, trade, or occupation is conducted. A business license application and payment of the license tax is required of all business operating in the City. This includes home occupations and business locations outside of San Dimas that periodically conduct business in the City.

Anyone who operates a business or performs a service within the City of San Dimas is required to apply for and retain a business license (a.k.a., business tax certificate), unless exempted by the IRS.

Most businesses will also require special permits and authorization prior to the issuance of the business license. These permits and procedures are explained in the following steps for starting a business in San Dimas.

If the name you choose for your business is anything other than your own legal surname, California state law requires you to file a fictitious name statement in order to ensure that the public knows with whom they are conducting business. For detailed information in determining a business name, visit the Los Angeles County Clerk's Office website at L.A. Vote.

Every business must meet the City's zoning requirements to insure that the business activity is allowed at the proposed location. Contact the City's Planning Department at (909) 394-6250 prior to signing any leases, agreements, or moving in for specific zoning requirements and limitations. If your business is not permitted in the zoning district you have chosen, planners can advise you of the proper zoning district(s) for your business.

Businesses operating under certain Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) codes (those between 0211 and 5171) must obtain coverage under the State Water Resource Control Board's (SWRCB) General Industrial Stormwater Permit No. NPDES CAS000001. For more information contact the City's Public Works Department at (909) 394-6244 or visit the SWRCB website regarding the specific requirements.

Home Occupation Permits are required for businesses conducted from a residence. Applications for such a permit can be obtained by clicking below to download a PDF version of the form. All applications are reviewed by the Planning Department.

Get a Home Occupation Permit Application

The state and federal governments have additional requirements for businesses. Certain businesses are required to obtain permits from the Department of Consumer Affairs and/or state and local environmental agencies. For detailed information regarding your type of business, visit the CalGold Business Permits Made Simple website.