Business License Application and Renewal Process

You can start a new application in person, online, or via mail and only takes a few minutes. No payment will be required until your application has been reviewed and accepted. You will receive an email verifying the receipt of the application. After the business taxes are paid a business license account number will be issued. A certificate will be mailed to you once the process is completed.

This process may also include the City Planning Department (for zoning, signing, home occupation, use, etc); the City Public Works Department (issues involving utilities); the Fire Department (clearance for fire codes), and/or the Police Department (security issues). Please allow sufficient time for approvals prior to the start of business. Depending upon the complexity of the business, some applications may require additional processing time.

All you'll need to renew online is proper payment and the online renewal PIN # which is located in the upper right-hand side of your business license renewal notice. Upon receipt of your license certificate, the City of Sonoma's municipal code requires it be posted in a conspicuous place at your place of business.

Failure to renew a license tax when due will result in a penalty equal to 10% of the license tax on the first day of each month after the due date until paid.