Business License Process | Walnut Creek Economic Development

Welcome to the vibrant business community in Walnut Creek. Get the facts about the City of Walnut Creek’s business license requirements and the process for obtaining your business license below.

What is a Business License?

A business license is a tax for doing business within the city limits of Walnut Creek.

When is a Business License Required?

Any business that conducts business activity or is based in the City of Walnut Creek must obtain a business license, even if the business is located outside the city limits or has a business license from another city. This includes but not limited to:

Brick and mortar businesses
Home-based businesses
Building contractors
Independent contractors
Residential landlords
Non-profit businesses

How Does a Business Apply for a Business License?

Visit our online portal to apply for a business license.

Apply for a Business License

1. Verify which jurisdiction will issue your business license

The City of Walnut Creek Municipal Code requires that any person and all businesses operating and doing business within the city limits must obtain a City of Walnut Creek business license, including businesses based outside Walnut Creek, contractors and consultants. Be sure to check the correct jurisdiction of the business address before applying (distinguishing between Walnut Creek city limits from unincorporated Walnut Creek and other neighboring cities). To verify your business address is within the city limits of Walnut Creek or which city/county will issue your business please click the link below.

Verify business location

2. Apply for business license

Make sure to gather the following information for your application:

Business name, location address, mailing address, phone number and email contact
Start date in Walnut Creek
Tax ID# for business or SSN of individual
Seller’s Permit Number (if applicable-selling tangible goods)
State License Number (if applicable-Contractor, Medical, CAMTC, etc)
Owner or officer information including home address and DL#
Square Footage (if in NBID or SBID area)
501c3 form (if a non-profit)
Home occupation permit, massage permit or taxi driver permit (if applicable)

Apply, Renew, Pay and Update a Business License Online

Transient Occupancy Tax Assessment

City of Walnut Creek Municipal Code requires a Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) of tax of 8.5% of the rent charged to transient guests in hotels/motels, including properties rented as short-term rentals through home sharing services like Airbnb, located in the incorporated areas of Walnut Creek.

Tourism Business Improvement District Assessment

Additionally, hotels located within the Walnut Creek Tourism Business Improvement District (TBID) are required to pay a Tourism Business Improvement District Assessment.

File a Transient Occupancy Tax Assessment Return

Transient Occupancy Tax Assessment returns for Hotels and Short-Term Rentals (STRS) can be submitted via mail, e-mail, online, and by phone to simplify your monthly reporting.

File a TOT Return or Pay Online

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