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1. Who needs to apply for a business license?

An individual, partnership, or corporation who advertises or announces a business and/or intends to conduct or is conducting a business, either directly or indirectly is required to obtain a business license.

2. What type of business license application do I need?

There are three types of business license applications: retail, professional, and contractor/out of town service. Businesses that sell to the public and wholesale businesses need to submit a retail application. Professional businesses, such as accountants, doctors, escrow services, etc., need to submit a professional application. Contractors, sub-contractors and persons not having a fixed place of business in the city but provide a service by the use of a vehicle need to submit a contractor.

3. What forms must be submitted when I apply for a business license?

Each form in the business license packet must be submitted along with the business license application. In addition, a plot plan and a floor plan of the business must be included (refer to the filing procedure form for specific details).

4. How long will it take to process my business license application?

A business license application will be processed in approximately two weeks providing the Business License location complies with Cities Planning and Zoning Codes. Please make sure to provide all the requested information to prevent any delays in the processing of your application.

5. If the business is only changing owners not operations do I still need a license?

Yes. When a business transfers ownership, the new owners must apply for a business license. Business Licenses are not transferable.

6. How much does my business license cost?

Business License fees are payable once the business license application is approved. For most businesses, fees are based on estimated gross receipts. Please refer to your business license packets for the fee schedule.

7. When does my business license expire?

All business licenses expire at the end of the calendar year. Renewal applications are mailed to businesses who have a current business license. If you do not receive your renewal application by the end of November, contact the Business License Division at 562-865-6262 to request an application. Please note that it is the business applicant's responsibility to renew his/her business license before the end of the calendar year.

8. What are the consequences of not renewing my license?

If a business license is not renewed by the end of the calendar year, applicants are given a grace period until Jan. 31. After Jan. 31 a penalty of 15% of the tax fee is assessed. Thereafter, an additional 10% penalty is assessed each month.

9. What type of businesses need to obtain a permit before applying for a business license?

Businesses involved in the following operations need to first obtain a permit before applying for a business license:

• acupressure establishments
• acupressurists
• adult content
• advertising by sound trucks
• amusements (circuses, menageries, tent shows, theatricals, and vaudeville shows)
• auction sales
• entertainment
• dance halls
• fortune-telling
• late night and early morning operations (businesses operating between 12:00a.m. midnight and 6:00 a.m.)
• massage parlors
• taxi cabs or vehicles for hire

Please contact HDL to apply for a business license. City of Artesia C/O HdL Support Center 8839 N. Cedar Ave. #212 • Fresno, CA 93720 562.222.8742

10. Can I request a list of businesses licensed in the city?

A list of businesses licensed in the city can be provided upon request. A request may be made by completing a request form. The form can be downloaded or you may call the Business License Division at 562-865-6262 to request the form. Fees may apply.