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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.
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
- $388.20
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.
- Building
- Environmental Health
- Fire District
- Planning
- Public Works
- Sheriff
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.
Mobile License
Most businesses conducted from a residence fall in this category. The Planning Department may require a Home Occupation Permit. Customer traffic and employees are not usually allowed. The Planning Department defines a typical Mobile business as a "lawn care".
Application Fees
- $213.20 ($288.20 when food or drink is involved)
Required Forms
Permits
Additional permits may be required before your application can be approved. Contact the county Planning Department if you are uncertain.
Approval
Your application will be sent to the following county departments. A license cannot be issued without the approval of all applicable departments.
Special License
A Special License is for any business with a physical base not located in unincorporated Humboldt County or any business whose purpose is as an independent contractor for an already established licensed business. (Example: Booth space in a hair salon) If applying for an independent contractor license you must provide a copy of the business license of the already established licensed business along with the completed application.
Fees
Total: $74.00; $149.00 if food and/or drink is involved
- Application Fee: $40; add $75 if food and/or drink is involved
- License Fee: $30
- State Disability Fee: $4
Required Form
Booths
Booth rental in a licensed Storefront business also requires a Special Peddler's License
Approval
Your application will be sent to the following county departments. A license cannot be issued without the approval of all applicable departments.
- Environmental Health (if food and/or drink is involved)
- Sheriff
Cannabis Licenses
Any business involving cannabis.
Required Forms
- Cannabis Business License Application (PDF)
- Cannabis Transporter Application (PDF) Please do not submit an application for a Cannabis Business License until you have an approved permit from the Planning Department
Approval
Your application will be sent to the following county departments. A license cannot be issued without the approval of all applicable departments.
- Building
- Environmental Health
- Fire District
- Planning
- Public Works
- Sheriff
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.
Resources
- Division of Labor Standards Enforcement (DLSE) Information: A message from the California DLSE.
- North Coast Small Business Development Center (SBDC): The North Coast SBDC answers questions and provides counseling on business related topics. The majority of their services are free.