Getting Started

What You Need To Know To Get Started

Business licenses are renewed on an annual basis and based on your business start date which is the first date your business started in the City.

Before applying, please have ready the following items that may apply to your business:

  • FEIN, SSN, ITIN, or DLN for Primary Contact * Seller's Permit with Ontario address (required for retail/wholesale businesses)
  • Professional State License Number (if applicable) for example: Contractors, Doctors, Lawyers, Cosmetologists, and Massage Technicians
  • ABC License, Health Permit, WDID/Storm Water Permit, and/or Hazardous Material Facility ID (if applicable)
  • Worker’s Compensation Insurance Policy number and expiration date (if applicable)
  • Estimated gross receipts for the next 12 months.
  • Job location and job value (out of city contractors only)
  • 501(c)(3) or similar IRS certification letter for Non-Profit Charitable Organizations
  • Detailed description of your business activity (insufficient detail will delay the process and approval).

Approval Process and Payment

  • After submitting your application online, you’ll receive a confirmation email acknowledging that we have received your application.
  • You may receive an additional email asking for further detailed information or documentation. - For more information on additional requirements and necessary business identifications at the county/state/federal agencies please see our Business License FAQ’s.
  • You will receive a separate email with instructions on how to submit payment.
  • All In-City and Home Based Business Licenses require approval by the Planning and Engineering Departments. Certain types of businesses may need additional approvals.
  • After the application has been approved you will receive your business license certificate by email. If you choose to receive your business license certificate by mail, please allow 1-3 weeks.

Note: Some businesses CANNOT complete the entire licensing process online. These include any business requiring additional permits such as: Solicitor, Catering Truck, Sidewalk Vendor, Massage Establishment, and Sales of Goods or Merchandise from Vehicles. You will be contacted on the additional steps required for these licenses once your application is received.

Per AB 2184, you may protect your residential address by providing a different Service of Process address in accordance with Sections 16000.1(a)(2) and 16100.1(a)(2) of the Business and Professions Code. To do so, please Apply in person - you may not apply online.

If you need assistance or need more information, contact the Business License Division at (909) 395-2022 or email us at BusinessLicense@OntarioCA.gov

We wish you much success in your business venture.

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