Business Licensing

The City has partnered with HdL Companies to better serve the business community. All new applications, annual renewal notices, payments, compliance, and customer support will be through HdL Companies.

Who Needs a Business License Certificate? 

Any person, but not limited to, an individual, partnership, corporation, or sole proprietor, who wishes to conduct, either directly or indirectly, any business within the City of Emeryville must secure a business license certificate, including residential landlords and property related businesses. The City ordinance states that it is unlawful for any person to commence, transact, engage in, or carry on business in the City without first having obtained a valid license and paid the license fee.  

How Do I Apply for or Renew a Business License Certificate?

To apply for a new business license or renew with a notice, please use the following link to our Online Business Portal: 

Online Business License Portal

Before You Apply

Determine what type of Federal, State, and County licenses or permits are required in addition to your business license here:

CalGold Permit Assisstance

Other helpful agencies include:

• California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA) - For seller's permit
• IRS and Franchise Tax Board - Employer Tax ID
• Employment Development Department - If your business will have employees
• California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control - If you intend to sell or serve alcoholic beverages
• Alameda County Environmental Health - For serving or preparing food

Business License Support

Email: Emeryville@HdLgov.com

Phone: (510) 725 - 4161

Operating Hours

Monday - Friday
8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Address

City of Emeryville
Business License Processing Center
8839 N. Cedar Ave #212
Fresno, CA 93720

Please note exemption from the City of Emeryville business license tax does not assure exemption from maintaining a current business license and are subject to an annual renewal fee and statement affirming its status as a tax-exempt organization by March 1 of each year.

Charitable Institutions & Non-profit Organizations

Charitable institutions & non-profit organizations are exempt from paying the business license tax.

Proof of exemption in the form of an Internal Revenue Service or State Franchise Tax Board non-profit determination letter, or Secretary of State Certification is required at the time of filing.

Family Daycare Providers

A home that provides family daycare for 14 or fewer children shall be exempt from the business license tax if the daycare provider has obtained a daycare license with the State of California.

Daycare providers must provide a copy of State daycare license. Please read more details about Family daycare homes exempt from business license tax(PDF, 166KB).