FAQs • Campbell, CA • CivicEngage

I just purchased an existing business. Can I use the previous owner's license?: No. If ownership changes, the business license is not transferable. As a new owner, you need to apply for a business license in your name and pay the appropriate fees. If your business address is changing, it will require new zoning clearance by the Planning Division.

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Finance

1. How do I obtain a business license?: If you are going to do business in Campbell, apply for your license in the Finance Department. Guidelines on how to do that are found here.

2. What is the cost of a business license?: The cost of a business license in Campbell is found on our
business license fee schedule.

3. How can I pay for my business license?: Payment methods include, cash (in person), check or money order (payable to City of Campbell), and credit card (VISA or MasterCard in person).

4. Who is required to obtain a business license?: A business license is required in the City of Campbell under any of the following circumstances:
- Conduct business of any kind within the City limits
- Have a fictitious business name certificate registered with a Campbell address
- Have a State Board of Equalization resale permit registered with a Campbell address
- Have a home-based business in Campbell

5. How long do I have to pay for my business license?: You have a 30-day grace period after license expiration. Penalties will be imposed after the 30-day grace period.

6. Do I need a business license if I run a business out of my home?: Yes. You are still required to obtain a business license if your residence is in Campbell. Check with the City's Planning Division to ensure that operating your business from your home is permissible. Please note that along with your business license, the Planning Division imposes a Home Occupation Permit Fee.

7. What if I have more than one business location?: If you own more than one business, a separate business license is required for each type of business.
If you have one business with multiple locations within the City, each location is required to have a separate business license.

8. I am paid on a 1099 basis not as a W2 employee, am I required to obtain a business license?: Yes. The business license tax applies to independent contractors as well as business owners.

9. Does a non-profit organization need a business license?: If your business is a nonprofit organization, it is exempt from paying the City's business license tax. However, a business license with the City is still required. Tax-exempt organizations are required to provide proof of their non-profit status in order to receive a business license. They must provide a copy of a statement from the California Secretary of State or the Internal Revenue Service stating that the business has a nonprofit status.

10. Can I use a P.O. Box or a Virtual Office as my business location?: No. You are required to have an actual (permanent) commercial office or home office location in Campbell.

11. Is my business information confidential?: Your personal information is confidential. However, business name, location, phone number, and owner's name are subject to disclosure under the California Public Records Act.

12. I just purchased an existing business. Can I use the previous owner's license?: No. If ownership changes, the business license is not transferable. As a new owner, you need to apply for a business license in your name and pay the appropriate fees. If your business address is changing, it will require new zoning clearance by the Planning Division.

13. What if I want to move my business to another Campbell location?: You must come in person to City Hall to obtain zoning clearance from the Planning Division for the other location.

14. Will the City notify me when it is time to renew my license?: Yes. Approximately 30 days prior to expiration a renewal notice will be sent to you as a courtesy. However, you are still responsible for renewing your license even if you do not receive the courtesy notice.