Show All Answers

1. How do I know if my business is allowed where I want to locate it?

The City of Rialto has various land uses or zones that are defined in the City’s Municipal Code that allow for various types of business uses. Please check with the City’s Planning Department at 909-820-2535 to determine if your business use is permitted in a particular zone.

2. Am I required to have a business license?

Yes. All businesses operating or doing business within the city limits of Rialto are required to obtain a business license. Contact the City of Rialto Business License office at 909-820-2517. Find more information about applying for a business license.

3. What type of business entity should I have?

You may choose to conduct a business as a sole proprietorship, corporation, partnership, or limited liability company. You should consult with a legal representative and accountant before making any determination as to the type of business entity to form. For more information on each type of business entity, please visit the California Business Portal section of the Secretary of State’s website. Unless you conduct your business as a sole proprietorship, you must file papers with the Secretary of State’s office:

• Secretary of State
  Business Programs Division
  1500 11th Street
  Sacramento, CA 95814
• Phone: 916-657-5448

4. What’s a fictitious name statement?

If you use a business name other than your own legal name or initials, you must file a fictitious name statement with the County Clerk at:

• San Bernardino County
  Auditor/Controller-Recorder Office
  222 W Hospitality Lane
  San Bernardino, CA 92415
• Phone: 909-386-8970

5. Where can I obtain a seller’s permit (Retail Sales Tax Number)?

The State Board of Equalization (BOE) issues seller’s permits and is responsible for the administration and collection of the State’s sales and use, fuel, alcohol, tobacco, and other special taxes and fees. Contact the BOE at:

• State Board of Equalization
  3737 Main Street
  Number 1000
  Riverside, CA 92501
• Phone: 909-680-6400

6. Where do I obtain a State Tax Identification Number?

The Franchise Tax Board (FTB) issues State Tax identification numbers and administers personal and corporate income and franchise taxes for the State of California. Information regarding this number (which is utilized to track state withholding taxes) can be obtained from the California Franchise Tax Board at:

• Franchise Tax Board
  464 W 4th Street
  Room 454
  San Bernardino, CA 92401
• Phone: 909-852-5711
• Toll-Free: 800-852-5711

7. Where can I obtain a Federal Tax Identification Number?

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) issues federal employer identification numbers and administers federal payroll taxes, including social security, Medicare, federal unemployment insurance, and federal income tax withholding. For more information, please contact:

• Internal Revenue Service
  290 N D Street
  San Bernardino CA 92401
• Phone: 909-388-8108

8. Where do I get my State Employer Identification Number?

The Employment Development Department (EDD) issues state employer identification numbers, (SEIN) and administers California’s payroll taxes, including unemployment insurance, employment training tax, state disability insurance, and California personal income tax withholding. Contact the EDD at:

• Employment Development Department
  464 W 4th Street
  Room 454 A
  San Bernardino, CA 92401
• Phone: 888-745-3886

9. What type of permits or licenses do I need to start my business?

Depending upon the type of business you conduct, you may also be required to obtain a special license(s) or permits from the State of California, County of San Bernardino, City of Rialto, or other agencies prior. To determine which occupations and businesses require additional licenses or permits you may contact the regional Permit Assistance Center or the Cal Gold website at:

• Inland Empire Permit Assistance Center
  2038 Iowa Avenue
  Suite 100
  Riverside, CA 92507
• Phone: 909-320-2048

10. I’m going to be serving food products. Do I need special approvals?

Yes. The San Bernardino County Health Department reviews all plans for compliance with State of California health codes. They are interested in the type of restaurant equipment installed, the categories of food you are handling, and standards relating to employee hygiene. The Health Department can be reached at:

• County of San Bernardino
  Environmental Health Services
  385 N Arrowhead
  2nd Floor
  San Bernardino, CA 92415
• Phone: 800-442-2283

11. If I sell any alcoholic beverages, will I need any special approvals?

Yes. The sale and serving of alcoholic beverages in conjunction with any business is governed by the State of California Alcoholic Beverage Control Agency (ABC). Please contact them regarding all pertinent rules, regulations, and required permits. In addition, to obtaining a license from the ABC, your business may also require special review and approvals from the City of Rialto. Please contact the Planning Department at 909-820-2535.

ABC can be reached at:

• Department of Alcohol and Beverage Control
  3737 Main Street
  Suite 900
  Riverside, CA 92501
• Phone: 909-782-4400