Business Licenses

Font Size: + -

Print

Who Needs a Business License?

Anyone engaging in or carrying on any business in Sunnyvale is required to obtain a business license from the City.

The City has a two-year tax cycle. To receive your Business License Tax Certificate the tax for both years must be paid. Renewals are due January 1. Penalties and interest will be assessed starting 30 days after the due date.

Business License Central

Do the following online:

Business License Forms

You may submit your business license application, renewal or business status change form (to update or close an existing business license), by mail or in person. We send renewal reminder notices to all businesses with expiring business licenses. If you do not receive a renewal reminder notice, contact us for assistance.

City of Sunnyvale
Department of Finance/Business Licensing
456 W. Olive Ave.
Sunnyvale, CA 94086

Contact: Email Business License or call 408-730-7620

Additional Requirements

If your business is physically located in Sunnyvale, you may need to meet additional zoning and safety requirements and occupancy ordinances prior to receiving your business license.

Check you meet the requirements:

Businesses Exempt from the License Tax

Banks and financial institutions
Charitable institutions and nonprofit organizations
For-hire motor carrier of property
Home day care provider for fourteen or fewer children
Insurance broker-agents
Public utility franchise
Residential care facilities that serve six or fewer residents
Veteran-operated businesses that meet specific criteria

You may also need special business or fire operating permits.

Free viewers are required for some of the attached documents.
They can be downloaded by clicking on the icons below.

Word Viewer