Beginning September 1, 2018, the City requires all businesses operating in the City to obtain a business registration certificate prior to commencing business operations. Additionally, an annual renewal is required for subsequent years of operations.

The easiest and fastest way to register your business or renew your current registration certificate is using the online filing method.

  • To begin, simply click on the "Submit a Business License Application" located below under the Apply subheading.

Alternatively, you may download a copy of the application directly from the “Download Forms” section below.

If you need further assistance registering your business, you are welcome to contact us at Orinda@hdlgov.com or by phone at (925) 374-5885. Phone support is available Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm (PST).


To get started, please select one of the online activities below:
Apply
Renew
Pay
  • Pay a Balance Due For Your Business

    Start here to pay a balance due on an established account with the City of Orinda. Please do not use this option to begin the renewal process.

Close
  • Close a Business Online

    Start here if you do not plan to operate or conduct any business activity in the City of Orinda

Search
Update
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Download Forms

Please download below

Business Registration Application .pdf   file_download
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Frequently Asked Questions

The City of Orinda Municipal Code Section 5.03.010 requires businesses operating in the City to register with the City and obtain a Business Registration Certificate (BRC). All Certificates expire on Dec 31st and must be renewed annually.

The purpose of the Business Registration Certificate is to maintain a record of businesses operating in the City in order to develop planning recommendations relating to the operation of businesses; better coordinate with businesses regarding a range of issues including parking, transportation, economic development, and event programming; assist in zoning compliance; establish and maintain contact information which can be used to notify businesses regarding public safety issues as they arise; and gather statistical information for other City purposes.

Certain businesses are exempt from the requirements as noted in Section 5.03.040 of the Orinda Municipal Code. This includes businesses with gross receipts of less than $10,000 per year from operations in the City.

New businesses must apply for a Certificate prior to their official start date of operation in the City. Thereafter, business registrations must be renewed every year by December 31st.

A business registration certificate is valid for the calendar year it was issued and must be renewed every year by January 1st. The City will send annual renewal notices; however, it is the business’ responsibility to renew on time. Penalties are assessed for delinquent accounts.

The City of Orinda contracts with HdL Companies for the processing of Business Registration applications. If you need to apply, please visit HdL's online application process at http://orinda.hdlgov.com.

The current City Fees are:
  • New Registration: $57
  • Renewal: $39
  • The State of California imposes a $4.00 surcharge per registration and/or renewal.