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Business licenses & tax certificates

Check the local authority, requirements, applications, renewal, changes and public license searches for your business.

Before you start

  • Start with where your business is located and where it will operate. A county license may apply only to unincorporated areas or specific activities; cities can have their own requirements.
  • Some county offices provide guidance or referrals and do not issue a general business license. Read the entry before choosing an application.
  • A business license or tax certificate, an FBN/DBA filing, business entity registration and a professional license serve different purposes. Zoning, health and other activity permits may also apply. Business stormwater registration is a separate local programme where required.
  • Check the license period, renewal date and rules for changes in ownership or location. A renewal may not cover a move or a new owner. Fees and application steps depend on the license category.

1 guide with reviewed service links · Reviewed local guides · “City of El Centro”

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U.S. Census boundaries via U.S. Atlas · 2017 edition, simplified for display.

County government · Imperial

Tax Collector

Business licensing

County licensing requirements and application requests (opens in a new tab)Official instructions

Review the appropriate licensing category and contact the licensing division for the application. General business, adult-entertainment and swap-meet categories are separate. Confirm applicability before applying.

Source checked October 16, 2026

Imperial County official website · Imperial County — business licensing discovery (opens in a new tab)

Reviewed business licensing instructions

Miscellaneous Licenses License County Ordinance General Business Licenses Chapter 5.01 Adult Entertainment Establishments Chapter 5.06 Swap Meets Chapter 5.60 The ordinance language is available for viewing by selecting the appropriate chapter shown above. For specific questions regarding any of these ordinances, or to obtain an application please contact our licensing division at (442) 265-1250.

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