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1. Who needs a business license?

Any individual, partnership, corporation, or other organization that wishes to conduct business within the City of Orange must obtain a Business License. Orange Municipal Code Section 5.02.040 states "it is unlawful for any person to transact and carry on any business, trade, profession, calling or occupation in the City without first having procured a Business License Certificate from the City to do so, or without complying with any and all applicable provisions of title."

Owners of non-residential commercial property (OMC 5.14.170) and owners of apartment complexes (OMC 5.02.040), are also required to maintain a Business License and report gross rental receipts. A separate Business License is required for each branch establishment or location of the business. (OMC 5.06.050) Any business based outside the City but operating in the City of Orange must obtain a Business License and carry it with them.

2. Selling alcoholic beverages?

If you plan to sell or serve alcoholic beverages call (714) 558-4101 for further information or visit the alcoholic Beverage Control Board website.

3. I want to change the location of my business.

If you change your business location within the City, a $10.00 Move and Review Fee is charged and an updated business license application must be submitted. For additional details view the

Inside Application (PDF).

4. Fictitious business name statement (DBA)

If your business name does not include your surname, you must file a fictitious business name statement at the County Clerk's Office. If your business name includes your surname but suggests the existence of other owners you must file it. You do not need to register with the County Clerk if you have registered this name with the Secretary of State as a legal business entity. For additional information on how to register your business name you can call (714) 834-2889 or visit the Orange County Clerk Recorders Office website.

5. What if my business is going to prepare or sell food?

If your business intends to prepare and or sell food of any type, even pre-wrapped, you must complete an application for a Health Permit. To obtain a permit contact the Orange County Health Care Agency at,
1241 E. Dyer Rd.
Suite 120
Santa Ana, CA 92705
Phone: (714) 433-6000

6. What if I need to renew my license?

Business License renewal notices are mailed during the month they expire. You have 1 month from the expiration date to renew. Failure to receive a renewal notice does not relieve the business owner of the responsibility for renewing the license before the penalty date. Late payments receive a 25% penalty. 

If you have a Gross Receipts Tax Schedule, you will need to state your business's gross revenue (before any expenses) for the last 12 months prior to the expiration date. Your license will be in renewal status and ready to renew online approximately three weeks before the expiration date. To renew your Business License online, visit the

Online Renewals webpage.

7. Are there penalties for late renewal?

Late penalties are assessed at 25% per month. Failure to receive a renewal notice does not relieve the business owner of the responsibility for renewing the Business License. If three months or more delinquent, a $50 Non-Compliance Fee is added to your account.