Business Permits & License

Thank you for considering Claremont 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. It includes information about starting and conducting a business in Claremont and a directory of telephone numbers that can provide assistance to new business owners.

Anyone who operates a business or performs a service within the City of Claremont is required to apply for and retain a business license (a.k.a., business tax certificate), unless exempted by the IRS.

Most businesses will also require special permits and authorization prior to the issuance of the business license. These permits and procedures are explained in the following steps for starting a business in Claremont.

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 (909) 399-5470 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.

Home Occupation Permits are required for businesses conducted from a residence. Applications for such a permit can be obtained by clicking below to download a PDF version of the form. All applications are reviewed by the Community Development Director.

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. Contact the Claremont Courier at (909) 621-4761 or any local newspaper to complete this process.

A resale number is a requirement for any one conducting business as a seller of tangible property. A resale number can be obtained through the State Board of Equalization at (626) 480-7200.

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.

After you have obtained the required permits and have received the Planning Division's approval for your business location, you can apply for your business permit and license. Applications can be obtained in person at Claremont City Hall (207 Harvard Avenue, Claremont), by calling (909) 399-5398, or by clicking below for a printable PDF version of the application.

To calculate the amount of your business tax, click below for a printable PDF version of our Rate Schedule.

A business tax certificate is not transferable. The certificate is terminated when a businesses location or ownership changes. Advise the Business Tax Office when you relocate or terminate your business for any reason.

Permits are required by the City in order to ensure that alarm systems are in compliance with the alarm ordinance. Contact the Police Department at (909) 399-5411 for information if you plan to install an alarm.

The City of Claremont has a sign ordinance, which requires a permit for the display of advertising flags and banners. If you plan to install a new sign or make changes to an existing one, please contact the Community Development Department at (909) 399-5470.

An "independent contractor" is someone, other than an employee, who is transacting and/or carrying on a business, trade, profession, or occupation. Examples: cosmetologists, massage technicians, etc. Independent contractors are required to obtain a business license.

The Los Angeles County District Attorney operates a bad check restitution program. For more information, visit their web site: