The City of Sausalito welcomes you to its business community. Starting a business can be exciting and challenging. We wish you great success in your new venture!

The City of Sausalito requires all businesses operating within the City limits, including property owners, home based businesses, and all contractors, to obtain a business license and pay business license tax prior to commencing business operations.

The fastest way to apply for a business license is using the online filing method. To begin, simply click on the "Submit a Business License Application" located below under the Apply subheading. If your business is based in the City of Sausalito, an Occupational Use Permit must be approved prior to obtaining a business license. You may download a copy of the business license application and the Occupational Use Permit form directly from the helpful forms section of this website.

If you need further assistance or help applying for a business license, you are welcome to contact us at Sausalito@hdlgov.com or by phone at (415) 762-0576.


To get started, please select one of the online activities below:
Apply
Renew
Pay
Close
Search
Other
Update
file_download
Download Forms

Please download below

Business License Application .pdf   file_download

Please download below

Business License Guide .pdf   file_download

Please download below

Occupational Use Application .pdf   file_download
psychology_alt
Frequently Asked Questions

A business license is an annual tax for doing business within the city limits of Sausalito. The City of Sausalito Municipal Code requires that you obtain a license when you conduct any business activity within the City even if your business is located OUTSIDE the city limits or you have a business license from another city. Any business based in the City must have a license as well. This includes home based businesses, building contractors, independent contractors, and non-profit businesses.

Business licenses fees help pay for city services like roads, fire, police and other community services. These services benefit businesses, business owners, and the general public.

New businesses must apply for business licenses within 30 calendar days from the first start of business. Thereafter, business license renewal taxes and fees are due every January 31st.

Every business operating from a location inside the City of Sausalito, with the exception of Residential Rentals, must meet Occupational Use Permit requirements to ensure that the business activity and site are compatible. Please submit all approved Occupational Use Permit related documentation to the Business Support Center with your Business License Application.

A business license is valid for a calendar year expiring December 31st and must be renewed by January 31st each year. The City will mail each business a renewal notice; however, it is the business licensee's responsibility to renew on time. Payment is considered delinquent if not postmarked by January 31st, and is subject to late penalty charges.