Finance Department 
Business License Steps
Starting a Business in Petaluma
Thank you for considering Petaluma as a place to do business.
Before you begin operating your business in town, there are several steps you need to follow depending on the type of business you intend to start. This guide will give you a general idea of the process.
NOTE: Read the Division of Labor Standards Enforcement information letter to new businesses
Step 1: Determine the business site location and obtain the required permits.
Selecting the right location for your business is crucial to its success. For this reason, the City's Community Development Department has specific zoning requirements for different types of businesses. Check with the Planning Division at (707) 778-4301 to determine if the type of business you wish to operate is allowed in the desired location and what, if any, permits you will need to obtain. 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.
Step 2: Pay zoning and permit fees.
A Zoning Code Compliance Review must be performed prior to applying for a business license. The fee for this review is $25.00. Contact the City's Community Development Department to arrange this review (707) 778-4301. If the business is conducted from a residence, a Home Occupation Use Permit is required, rather than the Zoning Code Compliance Review. The fee for a Home Occupation Use Permit is $97.00. Applications for a Home Occupation Use Permit can be obtained by clicking below to download a PDF version of the form.
Download a Home Occupation Permit Application (Adobe Acrobat, 243KB)
Step 3: Determine a business name.
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.
Step 4: Determine whether you need a resale number.
A resale number is a requirement for anyone conducting business as a seller of tangible property. A resale number can be obtained through the State Board of Equalization.
Step 5: Obtain any permits or licenses required by state or federal government for your business.
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.
Step 6: Apply for your business license.
After you have obtained the required permits, received the Planning Division's approval for your business location, and paid the Planning Division's fees, you may apply for your business permit and license. Applications can be obtained by clicking below to download a PDF version of the form.
Download a Business License Application (Adobe Acrobat, 153KB)
Contact Information
Director,Bill Mushallo
11 English St.
Petaluma, CA 94952
phone: 707.778.4352
fax: 707.778.4428
email: finance@ci.petaluma.ca.us
Hours: 8:00 A.M. - 5:00 P.M.
Monday - Thursday
Closed Fridays