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New! Business Counter now available!

Think NOVATO for all your business needs

Novato is an economically-diverse and vibrant North Bay city of approximately 53,000 residents. Highway 101 connects this northernmost city in Marin County to San Francisco to the south, and Sonoma and Napa counties to the north. Due to its prime location and economic resiliency, it serves as a natural hub to global corporations, cutting-edge start-ups and niche independent businesses.

Novato's business mix includes corporate headquarters, state-of-the-art technology companies, and a variety of retail centers. Whether you are a new business or looking to expand or relocate, Novato is the place to be.

Novato is Open for Your Business

Now it is even easier to open a new business, relocate or expand your current business in Novato!

NEW! Business Counter

An online tool, powered by Open Counter, to help businesses navigate the City's permit process. Businesses will be able to look up zoning requirements, permits and fees. Just answer a few questions about your business to receive a customized report on the permits, licenses, and estimated fees required for your project.

NEW! Zoning Check

Select a land use and location to see how the zoning code will impact your project. This also helps applicants understand their options before choosing a location for their business.

Business Quick Links

Novato Wants Your Business
Find out about why Novato is a great place to move and grow your business

Use this search tool to see commercial real estate listings for Novato

Doing Business with the City
Find out about current opportunities to work with the City

Get a Business License
Find out how to get a business license or renew online

Get a Building Permit or other permits
Learn about the building permit process for various types of permits

Business Organizations
Check out Novato business support and networking groups and organizations

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Business Counter
- What is Business Counter?
  Business Counter is a web-based tool designed to help small business owners understand the specific license, permits and requirements for starting a business in Novato.
- What information do I need to use Business Counter?
  Very little! But the more information you provide, the more accurate your results.
- Do I need to know which permits I need to use Business Counter?
  No. Business Counter is a guided process that asks users a few questions in order to determine what permits they'll need. It's an easy and intuitive system that requires no prior knowledge of a jurisdiction's planning and permitting process.
Business License
- Where do I get the forms and apply for a business license?
  Forms are available at novato.org/doingbusiness or by visiting our offices at 922 Machin Ave.
- Is a business license transferable?
  No. A new business license application is required if there is a change of ownership.
- What is required to change business location address?
  An Address Change Form should be submitted if you wish to change your business address. If the new location is within the City limits, a zoning approval is required.
- How do I inform the City of Novato that I am no longer conducting business in your city?
  Please complete the Dissolution of Business Form.
- Who is required to obtain a business license?
  All persons and business entities located or doing business in the City of Novato are required by City ordinance to obtain a business license. A new business license is also required if the business changes location, ownership or name. The fee is a fixed rate depending on the number of employees for most businesses.
  
  To obtain a business license, you will be asked to complete an application form. If the business is located in Novato, you will also need a Zoning Clearance or Home Occupation Permit from the Department of Community Development. In addition, some businesses may need a permit from the Police Department.
  
  Please review our brochure for more information.