FAQ Topic: Step by Step Guide to start your business

A business license is required to operate in Santa Ana. Contact the Business Tax Office for applications and fees. Phone: (714) 647-5447 Cost: $57 Website: Business license & related services – City of Santa Ana

Required for food trucks and carts in Orange County. First-time permits must be obtained through OC Environmental Health. Cost: $183 – $488 annual fee Application: Mobile Food Facility Health Permit Application 2023.pdf Fee Schedule: Mobile Food Facility Permit Fee Schedule More Info: Mobile Food – Trucks and Carts | Orange County California – Health Care … Continued

Obtain a Home Occupation Permit before applying for a business license. Cost: $54 Website: Home Occupation Permit | City of Santa Ana More Info: Home-based businesses are not required to obtain a Certificate of Occupancy (COO).

Required for partnerships, corporations, and businesses with employees. Sole proprietors without employees can use their Social Security number. Phone: (800) 829-4933 Cost: $0 Website: Get an EIN | Internal Revenue Service More Info: How to Apply for an EIN | Internal Revenue Service

If using a name other than your own, register a DBA with the Orange County Clerk Recorder. Phone: (714) 834-2500 Cost: $23 – $32 Website: Fictitious Business Name | OC Clerk Recorder Department

Certain business structures must register with the California Secretary of State: Required: Corporations, LLCs, LPs, LLPs Optional: General Partnerships and Sole Proprietorships Cost: Varies by entity type ($50 – $120) More Info: Starting a Business – Entity Types : California Secretary of State

Select a legal entity type (LLC, Corporation, Sole Proprietorship, etc.). This affects taxation, liability, and financing. Consult an attorney or tax professional for guidance. Cost: Varies by structure and filling type More Info: Online Business Services | California Secretary of State

Confirm your business location complies with city zoning laws. Check your zoning using the City’s Property Activity Search AND Contact the Planning and Building Agency. Phone: (714) 647-5804 Cost: $54 – $19,945 (varies by zoning request) Website: Property Activity Search More Info: Zoning documents – City of Santa Ana

The City of Santa Ana’s Economic Development Division offers resources to help businesses start, grow, and succeed. Contact us or come visit us at our weekly office hours for assistance with business incentives, job training, and finding a location. Phone: (714) 647-5445 Cost: $0 Website: Economic Development – City of Santa Ana Additional Support: •Orange … Continued