When you conduct business within the City of Rancho Cucamonga you are required to obtain a City business license. The license is valid for one year, after which you will be required to renew it annually. This applies to all businesses including those specifically exempted by state or federal statutes.

A separate license is required for each branch or location of business.

Before You Apply

• Contact the City Business License Division at (909) 919-2948 to discuss the details of your particular business operation.
• Also, contact the Planning Division at (909) 477-2750 about city zoning requirements for your type of business and its planned location.
• In addition to obtaining the business license, you are also required to comply with all City, County and State regulations for zoning, building, health and safety.

How to Get the Application Form

• A Business License Application can be mailed to you upon request. Call the City Business License Division at (909) 919-2948.
• Select either the Business License Application Form or Business License Flat Rate Application
  • If the business is located at a residential location, the applications needed are the following: Business License Application Form and Home Occupation Permit (HOP) Application 
  • If the business is located in a commericial or industrial location, the applications needed are the following: Business License Application Form and Emergency Contact & Business Information Form 
• You may pick up the application forms at the Civic Center at 10500 Civic Center Dr., Rancho Cucamonga, 91730.

Other Important Info

• Your business activity may require a Seller's Permit (Retail Sales Tax Number) from the State Board of Equalization. To obtain such a permit, you must apply in person at one of the local district offices. You may wish to contact the State Board of Equalization determine if your business requires such a permit at (951) 680-6400.
• Contact the Internal Revenue Service at (800) 829-1040 for a Federal Employer Identification Number. The IRS will provide a Businessman's Kit, seminars for new businesses, additional information and the necessary forms.
• Contact the Franchise Tax Board at (800) 852-5711 if you intend to have employees or to obtain Form 540 for estimating State Withholding Tax for yourself.
• Contact the San Bernardino County Clerk's Office at (909) 387-8306 for information regarding the use of fictitious name or DBA (doing business as).
• Contact your insurance agent for information regarding insurance requirements for your particular kind of business such as liability insurance and workers' compensation insurance.
• Contact the County of San Bernardino Department of Social Services at (951) 782-4200 to obtain Child Care or Adult Care License information. 
• Contact the County of San Bernardino Department of Public Health at (909) 948-5060 to obtain Food Sale information