Looking to start a business in Los Altos?
Here are 12 steps to help get you on your way and keep you on track.
Your Brilliant Business Idea
Congratulations! You've come up with a brilliant business idea and have decided on Los Altos as the place for your business. This information will help guide you as you turn your idea into a reality.
Join The Chamber!
Opening a new business is incredibly challenging. Join the Los Altos Chamber of Commerce so we can help you navigate the process from finding the ideal location to getting plans and permit approvals. We can help you every step of the way. It's what we do!
Connect With The City
Connect with the City of Los Altos Economic Development at (650) 947-2620 or econdev@losaltosca.gov for more detailed information about starting a business in Los Altos. It is crucial that you contact them early so that they can assist you in meeting all requirements and open your business quickly! Visit losaltosca.gov/ed.
Develop A Business And Marketing Plan
An effective business plan serves as a navigational tool, helping you organize, operate, and expand your business. Take advantage of free counseling provided by SCORE counselors and free classes provide by Silicon Valley SBDC (Small Business Development Center) in developing your plan. Call SCORE at (408) 453-6237 or visit SCORE.org. Call SBDC at (408) 924-1402 or visit svsbdc.org.
Register A Business Name ("Doing Business As")
A fictitious business name (FBN) or "doing business as," also known as a DBA, gives business owners an inexpensive method of gaining the legal right to operate in a name other than their own. It protects the public, and it extends legal protections and privileges to business owners. Contact the Santa Clara County Clerk-Recorder's Office at clerkrecorder.santaclaracounty.gov. Their first office is located at 70 W. Hedding, First Floor East Wing, San Jose, CA.
Choose A Business Location
Look for potential locations for your business using a Commercial Real Estate Broker. Refer to the Business Directory located on this website, or contact the Los Altos Chamber of Commerce for a referral. Before signing a lease, it is important to contact the Planning Division to find out if the zoning for the potential property allows for your planned use or if it requires a Use Permit. Call (650) 947-2750 or email planning@losaltosca.gov.
Discuss All Improvement And Construction Plans
If you plan to do any tenant improvements or construction, discuss all potential plans with: City of Los Altos Planning at (650) 947-2750, City of Los Altos Building at (650) 947-2752, and City of Los Altos Engineering at (650)-947-2780.
It is also suggested that you consult a CASp specialist to make sure your plans are in compliance with ADA requirements.
Apply For Zoning Approval
Apply for formal Zoning Approval with the City of Los Altos Planning Division. Before you start your business, you must determine if your business use is permitted. This is also true for those interested in a home occupation application. The Planning Division can be reached at (650) 947-2750.
Register For State And Local Taxes
Be sure to obtain your tax identification number form the IRS. Register your business with the State of California to obtain a tax identification number, workers' compensation, unemployment, and disability insurance. This will help make sure your business is covered.
Obtain Business Licenses And Permits
Apply for a business license from the City of Los Altos. Visit losaltos.hdlgov.com. If you plan to create new signage, please apply for the necessary permits and complete all necessary inspections with: City of Los Altos Planning at (650) 947-2750, City of Los Altos Building at (650)-947-2752, and City of Los Altos Engineering at (650) 947-2780.
Schedule A Ribbon Cutting
Schedule a ribbon-cutting with the Los Altos Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber will help coordinate the Mayor to come out and give you ideas for a fabulous Grand Opening! Many businesses will benefit from an early soft open to iron out any kinks that might arise.
Open For Business!
Congratulations!
We are so excited to watch your business grow. Contact the Chamber of Commerce to help you along your path of success!
Your Brilliant Business Idea
Congratulations! You've come up with a brilliant business idea and have decided on Los Altos as the place for your business. This information will help guide you as you turn your idea into a reality.
Join The Chamber!
Opening a new business is incredibly challenging. Join the Los Altos Chamber of Commerce so we can help you navigate the process from finding the ideal location to getting plans and permit approvals. We can help you every step of the way. It's what we do!
Connect With The City
Connect with the City of Los Altos Economic Development at (650) 947-2620 or econdev@losaltosca.gov for more detailed information about starting a business in Los Altos. It is crucial that you contact them early so that they can assist you in meeting all requirements and open your business quickly! Visit losaltosca.gov/ed.
Develop A Business And Marketing Plan
An effective business plan serves as a navigational tool, helping you organize, operate, and expand your business. Take advantage of free counseling provided by SCORE counselors and free classes provide by Silicon Valley SBDC (Small Business Development Center) in developing your plan. Call SCORE at (408) 453-6237 or visit SCORE.org. Call SBDC at (408) 924-1402 or visit svsbdc.org.
Register A Business Name ("Doing Business As")
A fictitious business name (FBN) or "doing business as," also known as a DBA, gives business owners an inexpensive method of gaining the legal right to operate in a name other than their own. It protects the public, and it extends legal protections and privileges to business owners. Contact the Santa Clara County Clerk-Recorder's Office at clerkrecorder.santaclaracounty.gov. Their first office is located at 70 W. Hedding, First Floor East Wing, San Jose, CA.
Choose A Business Location
Look for potential locations for your business using a Commercial Real Estate Broker. Refer to the Business Directory located on this website, or contact the Los Altos Chamber of Commerce for a referral. Before signing a lease, it is important to contact the Planning Division to find out if the zoning for the potential property allows for your planned use or if it requires a Use Permit. Call (650) 947-2750 or email planning@losaltosca.gov.
Discuss All Improvement And Construction Plans
If you plan to do any tenant improvements or construction, discuss all potential plans with: City of Los Altos Planning at (650) 947-2750, City of Los Altos Building at (650) 947-2752, and City of Los Altos Engineering at (650)-947-2780.
It is also suggested that you consult a CASp specialist to make sure your plans are in compliance with ADA requirements.
Apply For Zoning Approval
Apply for formal Zoning Approval with the City of Los Altos Planning Division. Before you start your business, you must determine if your business use is permitted. This is also true for those interested in a home occupation application. The Planning Division can be reached at (650) 947-2750.
Register For State And Local Taxes
Be sure to obtain your tax identification number form the IRS. Register your business with the State of California to obtain a tax identification number, workers' compensation, unemployment, and disability insurance. This will help make sure your business is covered.
Obtain Business Licenses And Permits
Apply for a business license from the City of Los Altos. Visit losaltos.hdlgov.com. If you plan to create new signage, please apply for the necessary permits and complete all necessary inspections with: City of Los Altos Planning at (650) 947-2750, City of Los Altos Building at (650)-947-2752, and City of Los Altos Engineering at (650) 947-2780.
Schedule A Ribbon Cutting
Schedule a ribbon-cutting with the Los Altos Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber will help coordinate the Mayor to come out and give you ideas for a fabulous Grand Opening! Many businesses will benefit from an early soft open to iron out any kinks that might arise.
Open For Business!
Congratulations!
We are so excited to watch your business grow. Contact the Chamber of Commerce to help you along your path of success!