We are here as a resource to connect you to funding and provide technical assistance, so you have all the tools for starting a successful business in Mendocino County.

BUSINESS REGISTRATION & PERMITTING

Depending on the type of business you are starting, you will need a variety of permits to operate it. Some businesses are straightforward and others require a more complex permitting process including health or environmental permits and review.  We are here to help you navigate the process.

Here are resources for getting started:

FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT - If you plan to operate your business under a name that does not include your surname, for example, North Coast Plumbing vs Smith's Plumbing. You will need to register for a fictitious business name before you begin the licensing and permitting process. Start the process here.

BUSINESS LICENSE - If you are operating within an unincorporated part of the county, you will need to obtain a business license with the County of Mendocino. Here is the link to the application. For businesses within a city limit, please visit our resource directory for links to their business license application.

EMPLOYER ID ACCOUNT - If you are hiring employees, you will need to register with the California Employment Development Department for an account to file and pay your payroll taxes.

IRS EIN/TAX ID NUMBER - Registering with the IRS for an EIN establishes your business as a separate tax-paying entity other than yourself. If you are operating as a sole proprietor an EIN is not required but recommended. All other business formation types (Partnership, LLC, LLP, Corporations) must register for an EIN here.

 SALES TAX PERMIT ACCOUNT - Businesses that sell wholesale or retail goods must register for an account with the CA Department of Tax and Fee Administration. If you are unsure what time of permit is required, please contact us and we can assist you with the application process.

BUSINESS PLAN WRITING & TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE

A key component to starting a successful business is having a clear business plan. Once your business is established, knowledge and skills in bookkeeping, financial management, and HR management are foundational to success. We recommend contacting West Business Development Center, our local SBDC, to assist you with these aspects of your business.

FINDING THE PERFECT LOCATION

Looking for the perfect storefront in a walking district? We can connect you with City administrations and local chambers of commerce to help you find just the place.

Have questions about zoning for your business? Let us connect you with planning and building to help determine site feasibility for your business. Or schedule a Pre-Application meeting to determine necessary permitting for your endeavor.

FINANCING

For information on financing your business, please visit our Financing and Growing your Business page for traditional and alternative funding sources.

PAYROLL

Many small businesses choose to use a third party company to process and file their payroll. There are a myriad of online options out there, to name a few, Square, QuickBooks Online, Gusto, ADP and Paychex, as well as local providers. There are different benefits to each one and if you would like assistance deciding which would be best for your business please contact us or West Business Development Center.

(707)463-4441 // econdev@mendocinocounty.gov