Get a Business License
Business Licenses
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.
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.
For information on how to obtain a Massage Permit, please visit rocklin.ca.us/massage-permit
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.
Apply for a Business License
Applying online can be quick and easy! Please visit https://Rocklin.HdLGov.com to apply for or renew your Rocklin business license.
For immediate assistance, please call the HdL Business Support Center at 916-526-4614 or send an email to: Rocklin@HdLGov.com.
SB1186 Compliance
Effective January 1, 2018, as amended, $4 of the amount paid for new and renewal Business Licenses in the City of Rocklin is being collected to comply with this State Mandate. 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 (SB1186, Section 15, 4469). You may obtain information about your legal obligations and how to comply with disability access laws at the following agencies:
- Division of the State Architect
- Department of Rehabilitation
- California Commission on Disability Access
Disability Access Requirements and Resources
Need to Renew an Existing Business License?
Businesses located in Rocklin may now renew business licenses online up to 30 days prior to the license expiration.
- Business License Online Renewal
- Go to “Search” to look up your account number.
Questions?
For questions regarding new business licenses and renewal business licenses, visit Rocklin.HdLGov.com or contact the HdL Business Support Center at Rocklin@HdLGov.com or (916) 529-4614.