How do I start a business in San Francisco?
You can find information about starting a business in San Francisco online. You can choose the type of business you are interested in starting. Once you select the type of business you are interested in starting you will see a list of steps and agencies to contact prior to applying for any City and County of San Francisco permit and/or license needed to start your business. You can contact any agency directly with any additional questions.
First you need to determine what type of ownership the business is. You then need to contact the San Francisco Planning Department to determine if the location you desire for your business is in an area zoned for your type of business.
You need to contact the San Francisco Treasurer & Tax collector to register for a Business Tax Registration Certificate.
You need to contact the San Francisco County Clerk to file a fictitious business name. Businesses may need to report Business Property Statement to the Assessor-Recorder. Businesses need to file with the California Secretary of State if they are considering becoming a Corporation, Limited Liability Company, or a Partnership. Businesses and employers with employees, must obtain an employer identification numbers from the IRS.
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