Business License & Tax

Calculator, ledger and pen

Thank you for choosing the City of Lathrop to conduct your business. We are here to help you and your business succeed.

A business license is required of all home-based and commercial businesses, mobile food vendors, and solicitors.  

To obtain a business license, please submit a completed Business License Application along with payment for the license tax fee, as shown on the Business License Tax Schedule.

Mobile food vendors are required to complete a Motorized Food Wagon Application. The annual fee is $254.

The Finance Department is responsible for administrating business licenses. Businesses located within the city limits may require approval from other city departments (e.g.:  Building, Planning, Public Works, Code Enforcement, and Fire) before a business license can be issued.

We are available to assist you with any questions you may have about obtaining or renewing a business license. Please contact us at (209) 941-7320 during normal business hours.

All business licenses expire on December 31st.  Courtesy renewal notices are mailed in November and are due no later than the 15th of February to avoid penalties.

Important Information from the State of California:

Businesses, and consumers, are required to pay California use tax on certain purchases made from a retailer outside California. Please visit the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration's website to learn more about Use Tax.