Look up your business license in Burbank
Get your Burbank, California business license record sent to your inbox.
What Licenses Do You Need in Burbank?
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.
Burbank Business License
A general business license or business tax certificate from the City of Burbank is typically required for any business operating within city limits.
California State Registrations
State-level tax registrations, professional licenses, and regulatory filings required by California agencies.
Professional Licenses
If you provide professional services in Burbank (legal, medical, engineering, accounting), you must hold the appropriate state-issued credentials.
Zoning Compliance
Your business location in Burbank must comply with local zoning ordinances. Home-based businesses may need a home occupation permit.
Industry Permits
Food service, health, fire, alcohol, and other industry-specific permits may be required depending on your business activities in Burbank.
Federal Licenses
Businesses in regulated industries (alcohol, firearms, broadcasting, transportation) must also obtain federal licenses and permits.
Licensing Office
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 VerifiedBusiness Licensing in Burbank
Burbank 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.
Important Dates & Deadlines
Renewal Due Date
Calendar year basis (January 1 - December 31)
Renews annually
Late Payment Penalties
Penalties apply per Burbank Municipal Code. Contact (818) 238-5280.
What You Need to Apply in Burbank
Did You Know? — Burbank Business Licensing Facts
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/
Who Is Exempt from Burbank Business Licensing?
Exemptions per Burbank Municipal Code. Home Occupation Permits exempt from the $4 state accessibility fee.
Burbank Business License Forms
Business License & Tax Information
Application info and forms for Burbank business licenses
Online Renewal Portal
Renew your Burbank business license online
Emergency Information Sources
Get a Permit
Business Licenses & Taxes
Burbank's Form of Government
Legislative Platform
Information Technology
Public Information Office
Building Permits
Business License
Application Forms & Fees
Fee Schedule
| Fee | Amount | Period |
|---|---|---|
General Business License Fee varies by business type and gross receipts — contact the city for specific rates | Varies | annual |
Burbank License Requirements
Business License
All businesses operating within Burbank city limits must obtain a business license prior to commencing operations.
All businessesZoning Compliance
Your business location must comply with Burbank's zoning ordinances. Contact the Planning Department to verify zoning before applying for a business license.
All businessesHome Occupation Permit
Home-based businesses in Burbank must obtain a home occupation permit in addition to a standard business license.
home basedFrequently Asked Questions
How CLS Helps Businesses in Burbank
Navigating 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.
License Research
We identify every license and permit required for your specific business in Burbank.
Application Filing
Our specialists prepare and submit all applications, ensuring accuracy to prevent delays.
Renewal Management
We track every renewal date and handle the process proactively—no missed deadlines.
Dedicated Support
A real compliance expert assigned to your account—not a chatbot or call center.
Complete Compliance in Burbank, CA
CLS is the only provider that combines business licensing with a full suite of compliance services—all managed in one platform.
Penalties for Operating Without a License in Burbank
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 assessmentFind Your City's Business License Requirements in Seconds
Every 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.
How to Get a Business License in Burbank, CA
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.
Choose Your Business Structure
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.
Check Zoning Requirements
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 with the State of California
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.
Apply for Your Burbank Business License
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.
Obtain Additional Permits
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.
Display Your License and Stay Compliant
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.
Business Licensing in Other California Cities
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.
Content reference: CCP-841650BA0FD5