How to Open a Business in Carmel-by-the-Sea
Starting a business in Carmel-by-the-Sea is an exciting endeavor, and we’re here to ensure you have the tools and resources to succeed. For further assistance with your Business License Application or any questions about the process, please don’t hesitate to contact the City’s Planning Department or visit City Hall.
We wish you the best of luck with your business venture in Carmel-by-the-Sea and look forward to supporting your future successes!
Small businesses are essential to the economy of Carmel-by-the-Sea, and the City is committed to helping entrepreneurs succeed. Whether you’re opening a new business or relocating an existing one, this guide will provide you with the necessary resources to manage and operate in Carmel-by-the-Sea.
Before submitting a Business License Application for a new business or a location change, you must first contact the Monterey Peninsula Water Management District (MPWMD) to verify there is sufficient water availability for your proposed business use. If verification is needed, you can contact MPWMD at (831) 658-5601.
How to Apply for a Business License
Fixed Locations & Home Occupation Business Licenses
For Fixed Location or Home Occupation business licenses, you can submit your application online, in person, via email, or by mail.
Online Application: You can submit your application electronically via the following link: Carmel Business License Portal.
In Person: New Fixed Location business licenses can be submitted at the Community Planning and Building Department counter (second window) at City Hall.
By Email: Send your application to: planning@ci.carmel.ca.us.
By Mail: Mail your application to:City of Carmel c/o Community Planning and Building
PO Box CC Carmel, CA 93921
Fees:
- New Fixed Location License: $352
- New Home Occupation License: $150 Fees can be paid:
- Over the phone with a credit card (3.5% bank fee applies).
- By mailing a check to the address above.
- In person at City Hall.
Home Occupants:
Used for home offices and in-home art instruction.
Business License Renewals
The City of Carmel-by-the-Sea will be mailing out FY 2025-2026 Business License renewal worksheets the last week of June 2025. The license renewal fee and renewals are due no later than July 31, 2025.
When you are completing your business license renewal form please be sure to do the following:
- review your contact information and make any changes on the form
- sign the worksheet
- return the Business License Worksheet with your payment.
If you have any questions or do not receive your renewal notice please contact City Hall at 831-620-2000 or business-licenses@ci.carmel.ca.us
For questions regarding Business License Renewals, please contact:
Anna Aubuchon
Finance Specialist
aaubuchon@ci.carmel.ca.us
(831) 620-2039
In-and-About, Delivery Business Licenses, and Renewals
For In-and-About Licenses and Business License Renewals, applications can be submitted at City Hall or by mail.
In Person: Submit at the Administrative Services counter (first window) at City Hall.
By Mail: Send your application to:
Additional Resources:
Use Permit Application Process
For questions regarding applying for a Fixed Location or Home Occupation Business Licenses, please contact the Community Planning and Building Department:
planning@ci.carmel.ca.us
(831) 620-2010
Evan Kort
Senior Planner
ekort@ci.carmel.ca.us
(831) 620-2023
Jake Olander
Associate Planner
jolander@ci.carmel.ca.us
(831) 620-2027
For questions regarding applying for an In-and-About Business License Applications, or questions regarding Business License Renewals, please contact:
Anna Aubuchon
Finance Specialist
aaubuchon@ci.carmel.ca.us
(831) 620-2039