Archives: FAQs

How do I apply for a City of Santa Ana business license?

You may apply for a business license by coming in person to City Hall and obtaining and completing the appropriate application, or you may contact the business tax office by phone to have the applications mailed, emailed, or faxed.

What is a Home Occupation Permit and who is required to have one?

Every business operating from residential premises within the City is required to obtain a Home Occupation Permit and comply with any and all applicable provisions of the City of Santa Ana Municipal Code relating to home-based businesses. Home businesses must apply for and receive an approved Home Occupation Permit before they apply and pay for … Continued

How do I pay my business license tax?

The Santa Ana Municipal Code requires that a municipal business license tax be paid when conducting business within city limits. This tax is paid for by the business license fee when you apply and pay for a business license. For more information, visit the Business License Division’s website.

How is the Residential Rental Business license tax assessed?

The business license tax for the rental of residential real estate is assessed per property, based on the ownership of the property. A separate business license is required for each separate rental property location. The business license tax assessment is made on a per unit basis and reflects the maximum number of rentable units making … Continued

What does Santa Ana consider a “Residential Rental Business”?

Municipal Code Section 21-3 defines the business of rental of residential real estate as including every person who engages in the business of leasing, renting, subleasing, subletting, providing, exchanging or trading without loss of ownership or leasehold any residential property within the City for purposes of general residency.

My business entity (corporation, LLC, partnership, LP, etc.) is dormant/passive and it is just paying a minimum tax to the Secretary of State. Is it required to get a business license?

Yes. If your business is registered as “active” with the Secretary of State and is reporting on a business return to the FTB and IRS, it will need a business license. Maintaining a business entity within the City, whether it is transacting public business or not, is considered operating a business under the municipal code … Continued

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