The contact information below is provided to assist those with an existing business or those wishing to start a business within the City of Sonora. However, the information may not be comprehensive depending on the type of business to be conducted.
Therefore, interested persons are advised to consult with an attorney to insure all requirements are met for their particular type of business.
The City of Sonora requires all businesses doing business within the City Limits to obtain a Business License. Click here for Business License Information.
Contact: Darlene Gibson
City Administration
94 N. Washington Street
Sonora, CA 95370
(209) 532-4541
For all new businesses located within the City Limits, as part of the Business License Application, the City of Sonora requires an approved “Occupancy Permit” and inspection. The purpose of this permit is to assure that basic minimum building and fire safety standards are met.
Contact: Building and Planning Department
94 N. Washington Street
Sonora, CA 95370
(209) 532-3508
Some businesses which have few or no impacts may be allowed to be operated out of an existing residence. Such businesses must obtain a Home Occupation Permit.
Contact: Community Development Department
94 N. Washington Street
Sonora, CA 95370
(209) 532-3508
Sign Permits and Design Review are required for most signs within the City Limits.
Contact: Kim Campbell
Building and Planning
94 N. Washington Street
Sonora, CA 95370
(209) 532-3508
Before selecting a particular location zoning requirements should be reviewed for the proposed business type. If there will be new construction or additions/renovations to an existing building, plans will have to be reviewed and required permits obtained. Some commercial businesses must also obtain a Use Permit to operate in the City of Sonora.
Contact:
Community Development Department
94 N. Washington Street
Sonora, CA 95370
(209) 532-3508
If the business will involve the handling of foods, you must consult the Environmental Health Office and obtain a permit.
Tuolumne County Community Development Department
Environmental Health Division
Contact: www.co.tuolumne.ca.us
Mailing Address:
2 South Green Street
Sonora, CA 95370
Physical Address:
48 Yaney
Sonora, CA 95370
4th Floor
(209) 533-5637
Every person who regularly transacts business in the State of California for profit under a fictitious business name must file a Fictitious Business Name Statement. The form is filed with the County Clerk of the County of the principal place of business.
Contact: www.co.tuolumne.ca.us
Tuolumne County Clerk
2 South Green Street
Sonora, CA 95370
(209) 533-5573
Every business that will sell or lease tangible personal property (merchandise) to customers must obtain a seller’s permit from the State Board of Equalization. Making taxable sales without a valid permit is a misdemeanor under California’s Sales and Use Tax Law and is subject to fines and penalties.
www.boe.ca.gov
Employers must register with the State Employment Development Department.
www.edd.ca.gov
Employers are required to provide information to employees regarding employment rights and to display certain posters where employees may readily see them.
www.dfeh.ca.gov
Under California Law Worker’s Compensation Insurance is mandatory for all employers. Contact the State Compensation Fund regarding the requirements of Workers Compensation Insurance.
www.statefundca.com
If the business will sell alcoholic beverages, you must contact the State Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control.
www.abc.ca.gov
If the business is in the construction industry, contact the State Contractor’s License Board to determine what special permits/license may be required.
www.cslb.ca.gov
The State of California imposes license requirements and fees on more than 100 businesses and professions. The Department of Consumer Affairs grants most licenses.
www.dca.ca.gov
If forming a corporation, a limited liability company, or a partnership, you must file with the California Secretary of State.
www.sos.ca.gov
If the business will have employees, there are laws that govern safety standards designed to prevent injuries arising out of unsafe or unhealthy working conditions.
www.dir.ca.gov
Businesses will be required to file various tax forms (income, self-employment, property, sales and use, payroll, excise, etc…) using a tax identification number, social security number for sole proprietors or an Employer Identification Number for businesses with employees.
www.irs.gov
City of Sonora
Tyler Summersett, Community Development Director
94 N. Washington St.
Sonora, CA 95370
Phone: (209) 532-3508
Fax: (209) 532-3511
