Starting a Business

A Step by Step Guide to Growing Your Business in Santa Rosa


Opening a new business can be a challenging experience and we want to make it easier for you to succeed! While there are many considerations to take into account when opening a business, this guide will focus on helping you navigate the permits, licenses, and fees you will need to take care of before you open.

Since there are so many variables involved in starting any business, we have included general information that will give you a rough guide to the process that lies before you. The specifics of your situation may, of course, result in a slightly different time-frame, order of operations, cost, and set of requirements.

Please note that the estimated costs of the permits, fees, etc. listed in this guide are for demonstration purposes only. While the figures are believed to be accurate as of May 2016, you will need to consult the appropriate department/agency for the most current information. Where possible, links have been provided to the necessary sources.