Starting Fresh

If you are planning to open a business located in the City of Fresno or do business within the City’s limits, you must first obtain a Zone Clearance to confirm that your type of business is permitted or allowed at the desired location.

There is a $27.00 processing fee for all above Clearances. All Clearances can be completed over the counter at the Development Department in City Hall or mailed with the fee.

Once you do this, you may proceed with paying your business tax, which is required for new businesses. Information on paying your business tax will be available soon.

Mobile Vendors

In order to increase opportunities for entrepreneurs to start a new food vending business, while protecting the health, safety, comfort, convenience, and general welfare of the community, City staff has developed a comprehensive set of citywide mobile food regulations that addresses all formats of mobile food vending (e.g. trucks/trailers or carts, inside and outside the public right of way).  Applications for mobile vendor zone clearances can be found below.  Please note that in addition to this zone clearance, a permit through the City’s business tax division is also required.  For more information, visit the Business License and Tax website.

Signs

Prior to installing any signs related to your new business, sign review and a sign permit is required.  Signs fall within two distinct categories in the city, temporary banner and permanent signs.  The ordinance and applications can be found below.