Please download and complete the appropriate application form from the table below.
The completed application and payment may be mailed to the address on the application form or dropped off at the Payment Dropbox located at City Hall. If you have questions on completing an application, you may request an Appointment by phone or email as listed above.
A Business License is required when you are conducting business and/or advertising your business in the City of San Clemente. Once a completed application and payment are received, the application will be subject to City approvals which may take between 1-5 weeks. Business Licenses are valid for one year from the date of issuance except for specialty licenses, which include one-day events and 90-day Out-of-Town Contractor licenses.
Before Applying for a Business License or Leasing/Purchasing a Location
It is critical that you confirm that your proposed business and location are consistent with the zoning of the property on which you plan to operate. Zoning and permitted uses for all properties in the City can be found using the Zoning Lookup Tool by searching for your property, and locating the permitted uses link under the “Zoning - Development Standards” drop-down menu.
If your business is not permitted in the zoning district you have chosen, a planner can advise you of the proper zoning district for your business.
Contact the Planning Division at planning@san-clemente.org or view zoning information for your proposed location online here.
