The City of Half Moon Bay welcomes you to its business community. Starting a business can be exciting and challenging. We wish you great success in your new venture! The City of Half Moon Bay 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.
If you need further assistance or help applying for a business license, you are welcome to contact us at HalfMoonBay@hdlgov.com or by phone at (650) 443-9050. All questions and applications are now processed online or over the phone.
To get started, please select one of the online activities below:
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Business License Application
Start here to apply for a business license with the City of Half Moon Bay
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Renew Business License
Start here to renew your business license
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Pay A Balance Due
Start here to pay established balance due on your account. ** Please do not use this option to begin the license renewal process**
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Close a Business
Start here if you are no longer conducting business in Half Moon Bay
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Business search
Search for a business that is licensed with the City of Half Moon Bay
A business license is an annual business tax for doing business within the City limits. The City of Half Moon Bay Municipal Code 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.
New businesses must apply for a license within 30 calendar days of their official start date of operation in the City of Half Moon Bay. Thereafter, business licenses renew every October 1st and taxes and fees are due by October 31st.
Most business licenses are valid for one year and the annual license period runs from October 1st to September 30th. The City will mail each business a renewal notice; however, it is the business owner's responsibility to renew on time. Payment is considered delinquent if not postmarked by October 31st, and is subject to late penalty charges.