Business License - Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

• Where do I start?

Before you apply for a business license,

1st: Determine whether you need a Seller’s Permit number;

2nd: Determine whether you should file a Fictitious Business Name Statement. Once these items have been filed, you may then proceed to submit your business license application.

• Who needs a Seller’s Permit number?

Anyone who is actively engaged in conducting a business as a seller of tangible property. If you have a Seller's Permit number for one city but want to operate in Tustin, the address must be changed to reflect the Tustin business location.

• Where can I get a Seller’s Permit number?

A Seller's Permit number may be obtained at the State Board of Equalization, 28 Civic Center Plaza Drive, Santa Ana. Telephone (949) 440-3476.

• Can I renew my business license on line?

On line renewals are not available at this time; please mail your business license renewal to the address listed on the renewal notice. Contact the Business License Division if you have not received your renewal by December 31st.

• In January 2007, I received a business license renewal notice from the City of Tustin. Is this notice for my 2007 business license?

Yes, the renewal notice you received is for your 2007 business license.

• I received a pink delinquent notice.  Why does the delinquent notice say I owe business taxes + penalties for 2006?

You received a delinquent notice because our records show that you have not renewed your business license since 2005.  We are collecting for the business tax + penalties for 2006, and business tax for 2007.

• How much do I pay to renew my business license?

Please see the box with the gross receipts range, and select your business tax payment according to the fee scale.  Your business license tax is based on annual gross receipts.

• Do I send in my alarm payment separately?

Yes, effective November 1, 2005, all Alarm Permit fees were billed and will be paid directly to the Tustin Police Department.

• In previous years, I’ve sent in my alarm payment with the business license payment, why is it different this year?

On November 1, 2005, Tustin Police Department took over the Alarm Permit billing.  They will continue to bill separately in the future.  Please send separate checks for your Business License and Alarm Permit.

• I have a question regarding my Alarm Permit, whom should I talk to?

Please contact the Police Department Alarm Desk at (714) 573-3205.

• I’ve already sent in my renewal payment, when should I expect my business license?

Thank you for your prompt payment. However, due to the large volume of renewals, please do not expect your business license until early March.

• I live in the unincorporated area just north of Tustin; where do I get my business license?

The Orange County Sheriff’s Department issues business licenses in the unincorporated area adjacent to Tustin.  Please call (714) 647-1868.

• Can I fax my completed business license application to you?

Please mail your business license application to the address listed on page 1 of the application. Faxes cannot be accepted.

• I received a renewal/delinquent notice, but my business is now closed.  What should I do?

Please check the box at the bottom of the renewal/delinquent notice that states you are no longer conducting business in Tustin. Sign, date and send it back to the Business License Division so we can close your account.

• What if I have moved my business to another location in Tustin? 

Please submit the Change of Address questionnaire and send it back to the Business License Division.