Business Licensing & Success in Irvine
Whether you are a home-based entrepreneur or a global innovation firm, we are here to help you get up and running smoothly. Following the steps below will ensure that your business is properly integrated into the City’s emergency response systems and remains in good standing.
Download the "Before You Start" Checklist (PDF)
Your 2-minute guide to a delay-free business license application.
Phase 1: Your Essential Pre-Check
Protect Your Investment. Verify your location’s zoning before you sign a lease. The most common cause of application denial or processing delay is a "zoning mismatch." Confirm your business activity is permitted at your address before proceeding.
- Step 0: Verify Zoning — If you plan to locate your business in Irvine, contact the Planning Team at 949-724-6308 or planning@cityofirvine.org (Open in new window) to discuss zoning requirements.
- Step 1: Gather Your IDs — Have your Federal EIN and any State Professional Licenses ready in digital format (PDF or Photo).
Phase 2: Fees & Application
Once you have confirmed your zoning and have your ID documents ready, you can complete your application online in minutes.
Licenses are issued for a 12-month term starting from the first day of your application month.
| Business Size | New License Fee | Annual Renewal Fee |
| Small Teams (< 10 Employees) | $76* | $76* |
| Large Teams (10+ Employees) | $152* | $102* |
| * Fee includes the mandatory $4 State of California ADA fee | ||
Apply for a New License (Open in new window) Renew, Update, or Print a Copy (Open in new window)
Phase 3: Finalizing Your Checklist (Required Resources)
Use these sections to gather any missing information or outside agency approvals required for your application.
If your checklist requires a Seller's Permit, Health Permit, or DBA, use the directory below:
| Requirement | Agency | Contact Information |
| Federal Tax ID (EIN) | Internal Revenue Service (IRS) | irs.gov (Open in new window) |
| Seller's Permit | CA Dept. of Tax & Fee Administration | cdtfa.ca.gov (Open in new window) |
| Fictitious Business Name | Orange County Clerk-Recorder | ocrecorder.com (Open in new window) |
| Health Permits (Food) | OC Environmental Health | ochealthinfo.com (Open in new window) |
| Alcohol Licensing (ABC) | Dept. of Alcoholic Beverage Control | ochealthinfo.com (Open in new window) |
- Do I need a license for a home business? Yes. You must meet the Home Occupation Standards to ensure your business is compatible with your residential neighborhood.
- Can I sell hemp products? Products with no more than 0.3% THC are permitted per Federal law; please have your product labels ready for review.
- Is there a fee waiver for non-profit businesses? Yes. Please provide your IRS 501(c)(3) Determination Letter with your application to waive standard fees.
- Do I need to display my business license? Yes, your license must be displayed in a conspicuous place at your business location.
- Where Can I find a list of existing Licenses? Public information related to business licenses can be found using the links below.
Beyond the License (The Irvine Advantage)
Now that your requirements are met, discover the benefits of being an Irvine-based business.
"Don't just open—accelerate."
Every licensed Irvine business gains a competitive edge through our 5% Local Vendor Preference, giving you a head start when bidding on City contracts for goods and services. Our Economic Development Department is your long-term partner for site selection and networking.
Specialized Support for Innovation:
For businesses with complex or technical facility needs—specifically those in Health Care Innovation & MedTech, Next-Gen Defense, Enabling & Creative Technologies, and Clean Energy & Sustainability—we offer additional assistance.
Our Irvine Navigator process provides a dedicated concierge to help you navigate specialized licensing and technical facility requirements.
- Direct Line to Growth: 949-724-6298 or economicdevelopment@cityofirvine.org (Open in new window)
- Strategic Resources: [Economic Development Portal]
Deadlines & Penalties
Stay ahead of the clock to keep your costs low. We will send you a courtesy renewal notice 45 days before your business license expires.
- New Businesses: Apply within 60 days of your start date to avoid late fees (starting at $111).
- Renewals: A $70.45 penalty is assessed 60 days after business license expiration and continues to accrue annually.
Contact the Licensing Team: 949-724-7128 or businesslicense@cityofirvine.org (Open in new window)
Public Counter Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. (closed 12 p.m. – 1 p.m.)