Business & Community
Welcome to Fullerton
Fullerton is a dynamic community with a rich heritage and a vibrant Downtown. An increase in new housing, high-density apartment living and an influx of developments helps Fullerton continue to grow and evolve while retaining its small town feel. A continued focus on education and a thriving economy makes Fullerton a great place to live, work and play. For more information, visit the Official Web Site of the City of Fullerton.
Business Start Up Guide
Congratulations! You’ve decided to start a business. For over 100 years the Fullerton Chamber of Commerce has been here for business. The Chamber is dedicated to the economic vitality and prosperity of our members and the community.
One of the most confusing and intimidating aspects of starting a business is the tax and licensing process on the local, state, and Federal level. It is very important to comply with the necessary agencies now to avoid possible trouble in the future.
To assist you in the process, some helpful resources have been assembled below.
Basic Start Up Requirements
If your business is within the city limits, you will need a business license. You may also need a permit issued by the Police Department. Contact the city for more information.
- Starting A Business in Fullerton provided by the City of Fullerton.
- City of Fullerton Business Licenses
303 W. Commonwealth Ave. City Hall, 1st Floor, Room 104
(714) 738.6531 or (714) 738.5326 - City of Fullerton, Alarm Permits
237 W. Commonwealth Ave.
(714) 738.3101 - Fullerton Fire Department, Building and Fire Inspection
312 E. Commonwealth Ave.
(714) 738.6500
In the event your business is located in an unincorporated area, you may need a county business license.
Government Assistance
You may wish to contact the following agencies to find out what State and Federal requirements your particular business is required to adhere to.
- Internal Revenue Service Checklist for Starting A Business
- California Employment Development Department
- Small Business Administration (SBA) Guide to Starting A Business
- California Chamber of Commerce
- California Trade and Commerce Agency (CTCA)
(916) 322-4245 - U.S. Department of Commerce
(202) 482-2000
Remember, it is your responsibility, not your accountant or attorney to adhere to the regulations that your business may require.
Zoning
Before finalizing your business location, contact the planning department to determine the zoning designation for your proposed site, and make sure it complies with your intended usage.
Fictitious Business Name
If you will be naming your firm anything other than your own name (i.e. Best Plumbing instead of Joe’s Plumbing) it is necessary to file for a Fictitious Business Name with the county clerk.
- County Clerk/Recorder Office
201 N Harbor Blvd. Fullerton, CA 92832
(714) 834-2500
Business Structure
If you are filing as a corporation, limited partnership or other business structure you must register with the Secretary of State/Business Programs Division, Business Entities.
- Secretary of State/Business Programs Division
Business Entities
1500 11th Street, 3rd Floor
Sacramento, CA 95814
(916) 657-5448
The U.S. Small Business Administration
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is an independent federal agency created to counsel, support, and champion small businesses. It provides a wide range of financial, management training, procurement and research services to the small business community, as well as offering assistance to minorities, women, women, and handicapped.
- SBA — Santa Ana District Office
200 W Santa Ana Blvd., Ste. 700
Santa Ana, CA 92701
(714) 550-7420
Fax (714) 550-0191
