How do I operate a business from my own home in San Carlos?
All businesses in the City of San Carlos require a business registration. You may obtain a business registration from the City Finance Department and a zoning clearance from the Planning Department. It is advisable to check with the Planning Department for zoning clearance prior to entering the business location. To learn about other restrictions and further details, call the Finance Department at (650) 802-4215. For specific zoning questions, call the Planning Department at (650) 802-4263.

Home businesses may not increase traffice (either cars or pedestrians), involve retail sales (except mail order) or display signs. All home business activities must take place in a fully enclosed building.

All businesses operating for profit in San Mateo County are also required to file a fictitious Business Name Statement within 30 days after opening, unless the business owner uses his or her exact own name to do business. To obtain and file forms for this purpose, contact the County of San Mateo Recorder's Office at 555 County Center (first floor), Redwood City, CA 94063; phone: (650) 363-4403.

How do I renew my Business Registration?
You will receive a courtesy renewal notice as a reminder; however, ultimately the business owner is responsible to renew in a timely manner.

I want to sell door-to-door in San Carlos. What do I do?
First, you must obtain an Identification Card from the San Carlos Police Department. You must also file a notarized statement with the Police Department stating the name and location of the company for which orders are to be secured, the name of the nearest local manager, a description of the types of goods and services to be sold, and other necessary information. Once the police chief approves the application, you must also obtain a Business Registration from the city at an annual cost of $452. For more information, contact the San Carlos Finance Department at (650) 802-4215.

May I use a credit card to pay for my business registration?
Yes, the Finance Department accepts either Visa or MasterCard.

What is a Preliminary Zoning Clearance Form?
Prior to locating a new business or relocating an existing business, the Planning Department determines whether the business proposal is consistent with the City's General Plan, Specific Plans, and with zoning. Although this determination is usually formally made through the business registration process, we advise you to check with the Planning Department prior to entering into a lease or other binding land use agreement. The Preliminary Zoning Clearance form is designed to provide interested business owners and tenants a written preliminary zoning clearance from the Planning Department to confirm whether your proposal is permitted at a particular location.