Starting a Business in Kern County

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Starting a business in the County may require a business license, fictitious business name and/or zoning considerations. In addition, permits may be required depending on your business activity. See our Permits page for information on the County-issued permits you may need.

Most of the information below applies only to businesses located within the unincorporated areas of the County. For businesses located within an incorporated City you will need to refer to those specific ordinances. See our City Requirements page for links to the official websites of the incorporated cities in Kern County.

Kern County Free Speech Policy (PDF)

Business License

Obtaining a Business License

Only those businesses identified in Kern County Code of Ordinance 5.04.020 require a license to operate within the unincorporated areas of the County.

For information on how and where to apply for a County Business License visit Kern County Sheriff’s Office website.

Business License Application(PDF)

Business License Fee Schedule(PDF)

Obtaining a Seller's Permit

If you intend to sell, or lease, tangible property that would ordinarily be subject to sales tax then you need a seller’s permit. For more information on when it is necessary to have a Seller's Permit and how to apply for a Seller's Permit, visit the California Department of Taxes and Fees website.

Seller's Permit Registration

Fictitious Business Name

Filing for a Fictitious Business Name

Within forty (40) days of initial operation, persons doing business for profit under a company name which does not include one’s surname must file a Fictitious Business Name (FBN). In order to file, a business name must be selected that is not already in use and then registered with the County Clerk.

For more information on how and where to apply for a FBN visit the County Clerk’s Office website.

Fictitious Business Name Search

Fictitious Business Name Statement(PDF)

Adjudicated Newspaper Listing(PDF)

Zoning

FAQ

Do I need a County Business License?
Yes, if your business is in an unincorporated area and can be classified as one of the following:
- Loose Vehicle Parts Dealer
- Carnival
- Circus
- Fortuneteller
- Itinerant Peddler
- Locksmith
- Weapons Dealer
- Taxicab Service
- Shooting Galleries, Doll Racks, or Games of Skill
- Swap Meets
- Taxicab Driver
- Commercial Photographers
- Temporary Business
- Street Vendor
- Massage Establishment
For a more detailed explanation of each business classification, you can visit the Kern County Sheriff's Office website.
What are the fees associated with obtaining a County business license?

You can find fee information on the Kern County Sheriff's Office website.
Do I need to file a Fictitious Business Name?

Yes, if your business name does not contain your surname.
Is a Fictitious Business Name good forever?

No. A Fictitious Business Name statement expires 5 years from the date it was filed in the office of the County Clerk. A renewal statement must be filed before the expiration date.
What are the Fees associated with filing a Fictitious Business Name?

You can find fee information on the County Clerk's Office website.
Do I need a Seller's Permit?

If you intend to sell—or lease—tangible property that would ordinarily be subject to sales tax, a seller's permit is required. You can find more information on the California Department of Taxes and Fees website.

More FAQs