Get a Business License

A business license, also referred to as a Business Tax Certificate, is required of all businesses and in-home businesses operating within the city limits, including temporary activities and contractors with offices located outside of the city. 

The City has partnered with HdL Companies to streamline the business license process. Starting May 5, all new applications and renewals will be processed through this portal. HdL will provide live comprehensive customer support for new business license applications and renewals.   

Important Notice About System Downtime 

As part of the transition to our new business license system, online access will be temporarily unavailable starting at 5:00 pm on April 30, 2025. After this time, the current system will be shut down in preparation for the new platform launch on May 5. 

From May 1 through May 4, business license applications and renewals can only be submitted by mail or in person at City Hall. However, please note that City staff will not be able to process any applications during this period. All submitted forms will be forwarded to HdL for processing once the new system is live. 

To avoid delays, we strongly encourage businesses to wait until May 5 and use the new HdL online portal for a quicker and more efficient application or renewal process. 

Key Transition Dates: 

• Current Website and Software Access Ends: April 30, 2025, at 5:00 PM 
• System Data Transition to HdL: April 30 (after 5:00 PM) 
• HdL System Setup and Testing: May 1–May 5 
• Go-Live Date (Service Begins): May 5, 2025 

Starting a Business in Rocklin

Step 1 – Find a Location for your Business and Contact Rocklin’s Planner of the Day

Prior to signing a building property lease or purchase agreement, it is critical that you contact the City of Rocklin Planner of the Day to determine the General Plan land use and zoning of the site, and whether or not your type of business is permitted in that location. 

• Planner@rocklin.ca.us
• (916) 625-5166

Step 2 – Obtain Other Permits and Licenses

Building Permits:

If you intend to change the use of, alter, remodel, relocate, or install any structure, electrical, plumbing, or mechanical portions of the building, you will need to contact the Building Division (916) 625-5120. Exterior changes may also require approval from the Planning Division.

Certificate of Occupancy:

Please note, while you may apply for and obtain your City of Rocklin Business License, you CANNOT open and operate  your business in Rocklin until you have completed the Certificate of Occupancy Application and it has been approved by City officials. 

California Building Code Section 111.1 states that a building or structure shall not be used or occupied in whole or in part, and a change of occupancy of a building or structure or portion thereof shall not be made, until the Building Official has issued a certificate of occupancy. 

• City of Rocklin - Certificate of Occupancy Application

Step 3 – Register a Fictitious Business Name

If your business name does not include your surname or has more than one owner (a partnership, association, or company) you will need to file a fictitious business name statement with the Placer County Clerk-Recorder’s Office. Visit the Placer County Clerk-Recorder’s website to verify that the name is available.

Step 4 - Obtain a City of Rocklin Business License

If you are planning on opening a business located in the City of Rocklin, or doing business within the City’s limits, you must obtain a business license. 

To help provide for the services and maintenance of public facilities utilized by businesses, the City of Rocklin established an ordinance (Ordinance No. 546, RMC Section 5.04.060) that requires every business within the City to be licensed and to pay the business license tax, as set forth in the ordinance. 

Under federal and state law, compliance with disability access laws is a serious and significant responsibility that applies to all California building owners and tenants with buildings open to the public.

Disability Access Requirements and Resources