So you want to open a business in San Diego? Most people presume that this is an easy affair: just get a business name, obtain a San Diego business license and bam! You are ready to hit the ground running. This is not the case though. Here’s what you need to do to establish a business.

Check San Diego’s county business registry for fictitious business names

This step is necessary to ascertain that no other business possesses the same name as that of your business. Most registries are available online which eases the process. If the name you had decided on is available, you qualify to obtain a San Diego business license.

It is imperative that you check out the zoning requirements in San Diego, as there are businesses you cannot set up in certain locations due to the hazards they present. If you intend to run the business from your home, research on home occupation requirements.

File an application for the creation of your entity

Filing your application with the state is mandatory if you are opening up a limited liability company, limited liability partnership, or a corporation. However, sole proprietors and partnerships can register with the county. In most cases, applications can be done online.

Apply for a San Diego business license

This is akin to a Business Tax Certificate. This requirement applies to all businesses, even if you’re running it from your home. This is necessary so that the authorities make sure that public safety is observed and that the business has no negative social impacts on the community around it. Again, the business license application can be done online, but you need to submit the application within 15 days of business commencement, otherwise, you may be forced to pay late application fees or penalties.

What are you required to submit before issuance of a business license?

• The business name, address and the contact details of the business’ principles must be presented. Should it be incorporated, the directors’ contact details must be presented along with their social security numbers.
• The number of employees.
• A Federal Tax ID Number or if it is a sole proprietorship, the Social Security Number.
• If you will be selling goods, you need a Sellers Permit Number

Once you have appropriately filled in the application, pay the application fee and submit. Depending on the type of business, you might need to apply for additional permits such as a Conditional Use Permit if the business you are engaging in is not permitted in that area. Once the application has been successfully completed, you only have to wait for a maximum of 2 weeks for the license to be mailed to you.