Business Registration
The City of Dana Point does not require a City Business License. However, a Certificate of Occupancy may be required depending on the nature of the business and the use of the tenant space. A Certificate of Occupancy is required when there is a change in use or occupancy type (converting an office into a retail space), or when a business is performing tenant improvements that require a Building Permit.
Voluntary Business Registration Program
In lieu of a formal business license, the City of Dana Point offers a voluntary Business Registration Program for businesses that are physically located and operating at a commercial address within the City of Dana Point.
This program is intended only for Brick-and-Mortar businesses that are located in Dana Point. It does not apply to businesses that are simply performing work or services in Dana Point but are based outside the City.
Business Registration Applications(PDF, 207KB) can be completed online, e-mailed, or mailed to the address listed below. There is no fee associated with the Business Registration Program.
Participation in the program helps the City:
- Communicate more effectively with our local business community
- Gain insight to the local business climate
- Enable Police and Fire Services to contact owners or managers quickly in the event of an emergency
While voluntary, registration is strongly encouraged to help support a safer, more connected, and well-informed business environment.
Home based businesses are not required to participate in the Business Registration program. However, it is recommended that Home Based Businesses fill out and submit a Home Based Business Agreement. The agreement outlines the rules and regulations for operating a home based business. There is no fee associated with this agreement.
If you are a business or contractor physically located outside of the City of Dana Point, but are working in the City, please obtain the applicable permits from the Community Development or Engineering Departments.
Visit the following links to access documents:
Are you looking to start a business in Dana Point?
Whether you are a start-up or looking to relocate, Dana Point staff is ready to assist. Economic Development staff can guide you through the process of obtaining any needed permits or connect you with local resources that can help you start, grow or finance your enterprise.
With no business license fees, Dana Point does not impose any local taxation on the business community, making us one of the most business-friendly cities in Southern California. For information on setting your business up in Dana Point please see our (PDF, 824KB)step-by-step guide(PDF, 824KB) .
1. Zoning Compliance
Planning Staff will assist you at the Planning Counter in determining if the location you are considering for your business is zoned for that particular use. Please contact the City to verify that your business use is permitted in the space you are looking at before signing a lease.
A planner will also advise you of any approvals that are required prior to starting your business (for example, a Conditional Use Permit).
The Planning Division can be reached at (949) 248-3556.
2. Certificate of Occupancy/Tenant Improvements
If you are proposing interior or exterior construction improvements, you or your contractor can apply for building permits at the Building Counter at City Hall.
Certificate of Occupancy is required for any new business, existing business undergoing any tenant improvements that require a Building Permit, any new use, or change of business use or type in existing space(s).
The Building Division can be reached at (949) 248-3564
3. Signs
Planning Department staff will advise you of the sign standards applicable to your business location.
4. Business Registration (Voluntary)
The program includes all businesses located and based in the commercial area in the City of Dana Point. Participation in this program will allow the City to better communicate with our business community and help us gain insight on the local business climate. The information will also assist the City’s Police and Fire Services in contacting the local owner and/or manager of a business in case of an emergency.
Business-Registration-Form.pdf(PDF, 207KB) can be completed online and emailed to tpohl@danapoint.org. There is no fee associated with the Business Registration Program.
Consider joining the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce. They help drive economic prosperity, promote collaboration and help members grow their business and will also help you hold your Grand Opening ribbon cutting ceremony! The Dana Point Chamber of Commerce can be reached at (949) 496-1555.
If you have any questions regarding business in the City of Dana Point, please contact Jaimie To at jto@danapoint.org or Taelor Pohl at tpohl@danapoint.org.