National City welcomes you to its business community. Starting a business can be exciting and challenging. We wish you great success in your new venture!
National City requires all businesses operating within the City limits to obtain a business license and pay business license tax prior to commencing business operations.
The easiest and fastest way to apply for a new business license or renew your current license is using the online filing method. To begin, simply click on the "Submit a Business License Application" located below under the Apply subheading.
Businesses located outside of National City who are doing business within the City can apply, pay, and receive their license in under 10 minutes by calling (619) 382-2596, Monday – Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm (PST).
If you need further assistance applying for a business license, you are welcome to contact us at NationalCity@hdlgov.com or by phone at (619) 382-2596. Phone support is available Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm (PST).
For more information regarding what forms must be submitted with the business license application, please download the "New Business Process Form" under the "Download Forms" section.
To operate a business within the City, a Business License is required before conducting a business. Businesses located outside of National City are required to obtain a National City Business License before conducting any business within National City, even if licensed by another jurisdiction.
If your business name is other than your surname, or has more than one owner, or implies multiple ownership, you will need to file a Fictitious Business Name with the County Assessor, Clerk and Recorder's Office.
BUSINESS LICENSE DIRECTORY: https://nationalcity.hdlgov.com/search
To get started, please select one of the online activities below:
Start here if you are applying for a business license in National City for the first time.
Start here to renew your current business license for another year.
Start here to pay a balance due on an established account with National City. Please do not use this option to begin the license renewal process.
Start here if you do not plan to operate or conduct any business activity in National City.
Search for a business that is licensed with National City.
A business license is an annual business tax for doing business within the City limits. The City of National City Municipal Code (Section 6.04) requires that you obtain a license when you conduct any business activity within the City, even if your business is located outside of the City limits or if you have a business license from another City. Businesses that are based in the City must also have a business license. This includes home based businesses, building contractors, independent contractors, and non-profit businesses.
Business license taxes and fees help pay for City services like roads, fire, police and other community services. These services benefit businesses, business owners, and the general public.