Business Licensing

The Business License Tax Division is responsible for ensuring businesses operating within the City of Stockton comply with the Stockton Municipal Code Business and Rental Tax requirements.  The Business License Tax Division uses field enforcement and multiple lead sources.  Lead sources include but are not limited to the State Board of Equalization, Fictitious Business Names, inter-governmental referrals, and citizen reports/complaints.  Business License Tax generates additional revenue for the General Fund, which provides Police and Fire protection, street maintenance, libraries, parks and other City services.

City of Stockton Municipal Code Section 5.04.040 states that no person shall engage in any profession, trade, calling, occupation, or business without first having procured a license.  Self-employed persons and independent contractors are also required to pay the Business Tax.

To obtain a Business License:

1. Complete a Business License Application
2. Return the completed application to Administrative Services, Business License Division, by mail, fax or hand-delivering the application.

Business License Applications and Forms

• Business License Application (pdf - 67kb, 2 pages)
• Residential Rental Property Owners (pdf - 63kb, 2 pages)
• Commercial / Industrial Rental Property Owners (pdf - 89kb, 2 pages)
• Previous Years Gross (pdf - 61kb, 1 page)
• Declaration of Closure of Business (pdf - 439kb, 1 page)
• Request for Information (pdf - 30kb, 1 page)  Research, or Copies
• Refund Request (pdf - 31kb, 1 page)
• Motorized Food Wagon / Ice Cream Owner Application (pdf - 60kb, 2 pages)
• Private Security Permit Application (pdf - 171kb, 3 pages)

External Links

Stockton Municipal Code - Business License and Regulations

This City of Stockton webpage last reviewed on --- 8/29/2011