If you are planning on opening a business located in the City of Mountain View or conducting business within the City’s limits, you must first obtain a business license. The application form and additional information can be obtained from the Economic Development department.

Once the application form is complete, related fee payments must be made in person in the Finance and Administrative Services Department at City Hall.

Payments
The Business License Fee Schedule* determines the fee amount due based on the type and location of your business. Fees range from $30 to $100 annually. The amount of Business License Fees assessed in the first year of business is prorated based on the quarter in which the business started. All Business Licenses expire at the end of each calendar year and pursuant to Chapter 18 of the City Code need to be renewed on an annual basis.

For specific information on the amount of Business License Fee that is due for your business, please contact the Finance Department.

Issuance of License
At the time that you file the application and pay the required Business License Fee in the Finance Department you will receive a receipt verifying payment. Your City of Mountain View License will be mailed to you after all appropriate City Departments have reviewed your application. This could take up to two (2) weeks. You should not operate the business until all City requirements are met.

Delinquency/Penalties
Any person who fails to file any required statement and / or pay the amount for the business license fee within thirty (30) days after it becomes due shall be subject to a penalty of ten percent (10%) of the fee amount for each thirty (30) day calendar month of delinquency to a maximum of fifty percent (50%), plus reasonable collection and legal costs.

Changes
If there is a change of ownership, business name or location, you are required to obtain a new business license and are subject to any associated fees and approvals. You can obtain a new Business License Application in the Finance and Administrative Services Department or by downloading the application referenced above.

Sold or Discontinued Businesses
If your business is sold or discontinued, please complete the Declaration attached to the City of Mountain View Business License issued to you and return that portion to:

City of Mountain View Finance Department
500 Castro Street
PO Box 7540
Mountain View CA 94039-7540

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