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1. Do I need a Business License (even if my business is not located in Pleasant Hill)? How do I get one?

All entities/persons doing business in the City of Pleasant Hill (including subcontractors) are required to have a current business license. This includes home-based business and residential rentals. It also includes non-Pleasant Hill businesses that come into our City to provide services or deliver goods for a fee. Business licenses must be obtained within 30 days of the start date of your business.

2. May I apply for my business license by mail?

Yes. Call the Finance Department at (925) 671-5234 and ask that the application be mailed to you. You can also download and application from our website.

Complete and mail the application along with your payment to the address on the application.

3. Do business licenses need to be renewed? If so, when and how?

Business License is subject to renewal on January 1 of each year if you are still conducting business in the City. The City mails renewal applications in mid-December. The renewal applications (with any changes noted on the application) and tax payments must be returned before January 31st to avoid late penalties.

4. What if I don’t receive the renewal application in mid-December?

If you don’t receive it by December 30 call the Finance Department at (925) 671-5234 to request a duplicate to be sent to you.

5. Can I use my business license to do business in another city?

No, this license is for doing business in the incorporated area of the City of Pleasant Hill only. If you plan on doing business in another city, you must contact that city in order to obtain their requirements for a business license.

6. I have a business license that was issued from the County. Why do I need another license?

The County License only allows you to operate in the unincorporated areas of the City. You must have a business license with the City of Pleasant Hill if you are in an incorporated area.

7. Do I need a business license for renting out residential rental property in Pleasant Hill?

Yes. Owners of residential rental property in Pleasant Hill are required by the City ordinance to have a business license. The tax is based on the number of units rented and can be prorated for full months of vacancy.

8. If I move my business during the year, do I need a new business license?

If you move during the year and stay in the City, notify the Finance department of your new location in writing at:

100 Gregory Lane
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523

There is a $15 cost to reprint the license. If you move out of the City and no longer plan to do business in the City your business license can be canceled. Send a statement to the Finance Department to close your business.

9. What do I need from the City to run a business out of my home?

From the City of Pleasant Hill you will need a business license from the Finance Department (925) 671-5234 and you will also have to apply for a home occupation permit from our planning department at (925) 671-5209.

10. Do I need a Peddlers/Solicitor’s Permit?

City ordinance states if you are traveling by foot or car or any other conveyance, place to place or house to house, in order to conduct business and or sell product, you need a peddlers permit. You will also have to register with the Pleasant Hill Police Department for fingerprinting and Pleasant Hill Finance Department for the peddler’s permit and business license.