Business Registry

Beginning March 2, 2015, all businesses within the City of Palo Alto located in fixed places of businesses (i.e. commercial buildings, retail storefronts, etc.) are required to register their business with the City.

In order to make the process as simple as possible for businesses, the City has developed an easy-to-use online registration tool. Businesses can register by filling out an online questionnaire and paying a flat fee of $50 via major credit card.

Business Registry Flyer     /     USERS GUIDE     /     Frequently Asked Questions 

As of September 1, a $25 late fee applies. As of October 1, an additional $25 late fee will be assessed.

Think your company might be registered already?
Click here to search the Business Registry List.

 

What you’ll need:
 

  • Computer with Internet and email access 
  • Internet browser: recent versions of Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox, or Google Chrome

Questions to expect:

  • Basic business info, including Business Name
  • Address(es),
  • Owner/Principal name
  • Telephone
  • Email address
  • Number of employees per location
  • Number of any parking spaces your company has exclusive use of(onsite or offsite),
  • Square footage your business occupies in Palo Alto*
    *This is the gross area (in square feet) that your business occupies. You should find this information on your lease or building floor plans. For assistance, contact your property manager.


Ordinance No. 5279 - Ordinance adding Chapter 4.60 to the Palo Alto Municipal Code Regarding Business Registration Program

Staff Report ID #5146 - Adoption of an Ordinance Creating a Business Registry in the City of Palo Alto and Adoption of a Budget Amendment Ordinance for Fiscal Year 2015 for Costs Related to the Implementation of a Business Registration Program for all Businesses Occupying Commercial Space Within the City and Amendment to the Municipal Fee Schedule and Administrative Penalty Schedule.
Last Updated: Sep 9, 2015