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500 Castro Street, First Floor
Mountain View, CA 94041 

Phone: (650) 903-6306
Fax:     (650) 903-6048

Email:  econ.dev@mountainview.gov
Starting A Business In Mountain View

If you are planning on opening a business located in the City Of Mountain View, or doing business within the City's limits, you must first obtain a business license by completing and submitting the Business License Application form.

For fee payment and filing procedures visit the Finance and Administrative Services webpages.

You should also confirm with the Community Development Department at (650) 903-6306 that your type of business is permitted or allowed at the desired location. Some additional requirements and approvals required by the City are, but not limited to:

1.

If you intend to alter, remodel, relocate or install any structural, electrical, plumbing or mechanical portions of the building, you will need to obtain Building Permits from the Building Inspection Division of the Community Development Department at (650) 903-6313

2.

Businesses involving any use changes, exterior building changes or sign changes should secure Planning Division approval prior to lease execution or purchase. Call (650) 903-6306

3.

Businesses operated out of the home must comply with Home Occupation Regulations and sign the Statement of Compliance.

Statement of Compliance*

4.

If your business uses or stores hazardous materials (including paints, thinners, solvents, acids, compressed gases, etc) you may be required to obtain a Hazardous Materials Permit. Contact the Fire Department at (650) 903-6378.

5.

Industries discharging processed wastewater down the sewer, such as machining fluid, water from glass washing, chemical neutralization, etc., may be required to obtain a Wastewater Discharge Permit. Contact the Fire Department at (650) 903-6378.
It may also be necessary for you to obtain other information or approvals prior to having your license filed. Below is a partial list of agencies that you may need to contact.
  • The City of Mountain View's Public Library's Reference section has a free pamphlet titled "Starting a Business in San Mateo & Santa Clara Counties" that may be helpful.
  • In addition, Chamber of Commerce, Mountain View has a "Guide To Starting A Business in Mountain View" that will help you navigate through the process.

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