Business Licenses for Unincorporated Humboldt County 

The purpose of this page is to provide basic forms and information necessary to begin the business license application process as well as answer some of the more commonly asked questions. It is not intended to be a substitute for more in depth research. Every business is unique. Inspections and/or additional permits may be required from various departments before your application can be approved.

Humboldt County Vendors:

Due to a recent county code change (Section 811-6-b below) your firm is now required to have a business license with the county, or state, or have an exemption to continue doing business with the county.

Title VIII, Division 1, Chapter 1, Section 811-6 * License Required:

(b) All persons and entities under contract or agreement with the county or public entity for which the Board of Supervisors is the governing body must have a valid Humboldt County business license or a State of California license or exemption which releases that person or entity from local business license requirements.

To read Humboldt County Business License Code click here.

Business license application fees are non-refundable. It is in your best interest to conduct your research prior to submitting your application. If you have any questions, you may contact our office.

To apply online for a Business License click here.

Types of Licenses

Business licenses fall into 4 categories, based on factors such as location and customer traffic. If you are uncertain which license applies to your business, you may call the Tax Collector's Office for more details.

  1. Storefront License
  2. Mobile License
  3. Special License
  4. Cannabis License

Storefront License


Any nonresidential or commercial space where a business is operating needs a Storefront Business License. Customer traffic is typically allowed. Inspections and additional permits may be required by the Departments listed below. 

 

Application Fees


  • $422.00

Required Forms

Approval


Your application will be sent to the following county departments.  A license cannot be issued without the approval of all applicable departments.

Important Note


If you own, operate, lease, or lease to a business that serves the public, then you are covered by the ADA.  Be sure you understand your Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Obligations prior to opening your business.

Apply Online

Use this link to apply online for a Business Licenses or make a payment for a License.

Business License Web-Application Supplemental Form

License Update

To update an existing license, complete and return the County of Humboldt Business License Update Form (PDF). Updates cannot be processed for a change of location, a new application is required. 

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