Business License

Opening a new business? Thinking about starting a business from your home? Want to know what you might need?

The City of Hollister has a Business License Ordinance #796 in effect that states anyone who operates a business within City limits OR provides deliveries of goods or services within City limits, MUST obtain a valid City business license.

There are two different classes of business license, one for Contractors, such as homebuilders, general contractors, etc., and one for all other businesses. Contractor licenses are available for either one year or a three-month quarter. All other business licenses are available for the full calendar year.

Fees for business licenses are based on the type of business, and vary from business to business. You may call our Finance Department at (831) 636-4301 for information on fees charged for the type of business you plan to operate.

There are different requirements for some business classifications. For example, if you plan to operate a business such as a restaurant or catering truck that involves food, you will need to get in touch with the San Benito County Health Department at (831) 636-4036.

BEFORE we can issue a City license to you, you will need to comply with their regulations and provide us with a copy of a receipt showing that you have applied for a health permit.

• If you plan to operate a business from your home or are unsure of where you can locate your business due to zoning regulations, you will need to contact the City of Hollister Planning Department at (831) 636-4360. All home occupations must follow the home occupation process and, if necessary, file a home occupation application with the Planning Department PRIOR to obtaining a City business license.
• If you plan to operate a business under a name other than your own, you will need to contact the San Benito County Clerk’s office regarding a fictitious business statement. They will tell you whether you need to file one. They can be reached at (831) 636-4029.
• If you have questions regarding a State of California resale sellers permit, please contact them at (831) 443-3003, or you can call for an express registration packet at 1-800-400-7115.

Download Business License Application (PDF File 59KB)