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Business license requirements in Burbank, California depend on your industry, business activities, entity type, and location. Most businesses need several types of licenses to operate legally.
A general business license or business tax certificate from the City of Burbank is typically required for any business operating within city limits.
State-level tax registrations, professional licenses, and regulatory filings required by California agencies.
If you provide professional services in Burbank (legal, medical, engineering, accounting), you must hold the appropriate state-issued credentials.
Your business location in Burbank must comply with local zoning ordinances. Home-based businesses may need a home occupation permit.
Food service, health, fire, alcohol, and other industry-specific permits may be required depending on your business activities in Burbank.
Businesses in regulated industries (alcohol, firearms, broadcasting, transportation) must also obtain federal licenses and permits.
City of Burbank, Community Development Department — Business License & Tax
150 N. Third Street
Burbank, CA 91502
Mon–Thu 8:00 AM – 3:30 PM, Fri 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM; closed for lunch 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM; last tickets issued 15 min before lunch break and closing
Information verified as of June 11, 2026
Web VerifiedBurbank distinguishes between a Business Tax Certificate (required for all businesses) and a regulatory Business License (required only for certain types like entertainment, massage, peddlers). Tax is calculated per-employee ($10.55/employee/year) for most businesses, with gross receipts rates for specific categories. Zoning is the single most important factor — check with the Planning Division before applying.
Calendar year basis (January 1 - December 31)
Renews annually
Penalties apply per Burbank Municipal Code. Contact (818) 238-5280.
Burbank has TWO separate requirements: a Business Tax Certificate (everyone) and a regulatory Business License (certain businesses only)
The per-employee rate is $10.55/employee/year — plus a $4 state accessibility fee
Zoning is the single most important factor — check with Planning Division BEFORE applying
Gross receipts rates range from $1.01/1,000 (wholesale) to $4.25/1,000 (professions)
Processing takes approximately 4 weeks due to Planning Department review
Online renewal is available at permit.burbankca.gov/renewal/
Exemptions per Burbank Municipal Code. Home Occupation Permits exempt from the $4 state accessibility fee.
Application info and forms for Burbank business licenses
Renew your Burbank business license online
| Fee | Amount | Period |
|---|---|---|
General Business License Fee varies by business type and gross receipts — contact the city for specific rates | Varies | annual |
All businesses operating within Burbank city limits must obtain a business license prior to commencing operations.
All businessesYour business location must comply with Burbank's zoning ordinances. Contact the Planning Department to verify zoning before applying for a business license.
All businessesHome-based businesses in Burbank must obtain a home occupation permit in addition to a standard business license.
home basedNavigating business licensing in Burbank, CA doesn't have to be complicated. CLS provides end-to-end licensing support so you can focus on what matters—running your business.
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Businesses found operating without required licenses in Burbank, CA can face penalties ranging from late-fee surcharges to four-figure fines per violation, cease-and-desist orders, revocation of existing permits, inability to enforce contracts, and in some cases criminal misdemeanor charges. Don't risk your business.
Get a free compliance assessmentEvery city has different fees, deadlines, and penalties. Miss your filing window and penalties range from late-fee surcharges to four-figure fines — and operating unlicensed can mean forced closure. Search below to get the exact requirements for your location.
Not sure what you need? Get a free compliance assessment — our licensing experts will identify every requirement for your business.
Follow these steps to obtain your Burbank business license. Requirements vary by business type, but this is the general process for most businesses in Burbank, CA.
Before applying for a Burbank business license, determine your entity type (sole proprietorship, LLC, corporation, partnership). Your structure affects which licenses you need and how you register with California and the IRS.
Verify that your business location in Burbank is zoned for your intended use. Contact the Burbank Planning Department for zoning verification. Home-based businesses typically need a home occupation permit.
Register your business entity with the California Secretary of State (if applicable), obtain an EIN from the IRS, and register for state tax obligations including sales tax and employer withholding.
Submit your business license application to the City of Burbank, Community Development Department — Business License & Tax. Online applications are available. Include all required documentation and fees.
Depending on your industry in Burbank, you may need additional permits — health department permits for food service, fire department approval, alcohol licenses, professional licenses, or industry-specific certifications.
Once issued, display your Burbank business license prominently at your place of business. Licenses renew annually. Track renewal deadlines to avoid penalties and late fees.
CLS also provides business license services in these California cities.
Burbank business license information last verified June 11, 2026. Fees, deadlines, and requirements are subject to change. Verify with Burbank or contact CLS for current requirements.