Business Licenses in Unincorporated San Mateo County

The San Mateo County Tax Collector's office issues business licenses for Unincorporated San Mateo County. The following is the list of businesses requiring a license:

  • Peddlers and Solicitors
  • Traveling shows, circuses, rodeos, and Exhibitions
  • Pawn brokers, Secondhand dealers, and junk dealers
  • Public dance
  • Massage Establishment and Technician
  • Bingo Games
  • Mobile Food Preparation Unit
  • Auction and closeout sales
  • Fortune telling

Processing fee includes:

  • Handling application upon receipt-directing application to board members for approval
  • Collecting appropriate documents, license fees, and issuing a whiz receipt
  • Issuance of license and badge when applicable
  • Filing appropriate paperwork
  • Tracking renewal dates and sending renewal notices
  • Issuance of renewal license
Use Permits for Unincorporated San Mateo County

Anyone looking to open a business in Unincorporated San Mateo County should visit the Planning and Building Department and find out if their proposed business will require a Use Permit. Some business uses are restricted by the Zoning designations for a particular land use or building site. Businesses can be cited for a Use Violation if the appropriate Use Permit has not been obtained.