Welcome to the City of Galt Business License Center

The City of Galt values its relationship with the business community and is committed to providing comprehensive support for all business license needs. Services are available both online and in person at the Finance Department, located at 380 Civic Drive, Galt.

City staff are available to assist with new applications, renewals, payments, certificate issuance, and general business support. Our departments work together to ensure the process is smooth, efficient, and minimally disruptive to your operations.

The updated business license system allows businesses to apply, renew, and make payments online, offering a faster and more convenient experience.

The City of Galt remains dedicated to supporting your business and fostering a strong, thriving community partnership.

Business License Information

It is unlawful for any person to transact and carry on any business, trade, profession, calling or occupation in the City of Galt without first procuring a business license from the City.

Business licenses are issued pursuant to Galt Municipal Code (GMC) Title 5 Business Taxes, Licenses and Regulations.

Step 1: Determine Which Application You Need

Local Businesses: If your business is located within Galt city limits, use the Application for the Conduct of Business by clicking here or using the Local Businesses button above. Licenses are issued annually and must be renewed each year.

Out-of-Town Businesses: If your business is located outside Galt city limits but conducts business within the city, use the Quarterly Out-of-Town License Application by clicking here or using the Out-of-Town Business button above. This license is also issued annually and requires renewal each year.

Step 2: Submit Your Application and Payment

All applications must be filed and paid online. Once approved, your business license certificate will be issued, and you’ll need to display it in a visible location at your business.

Step 3: Renew Annually

Business licenses are due January 1 each year. Payments received more than 30 days after the due date will incur a penalty, per GMC Title 5. Mark your calendar to stay current!

Need Help or Have Questions?

City staff are ready to assist with all business license needs, including new applications, renewals, payments, and general guidance for local and out-of-town businesses: Contact: 209-366-7135 | cduley@cityofgalt.org Telephone support hours: Monday – Thursday, 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM PST

 

Other:

Fire Protection Compliance, Plan review submittals or inspections, contact; the Cosumnes Fire Department at 916-405-7100 or Cosumnes Fire Protection.

Mobile Car Wash/Pressure Washing Business, contact; the Public Works Department at 209-366-7260 or publicworks@cityofgalt.org.

Delinquent License Penalty 

Failure to pay a license tax when due, the tax collector shall add a penalty of ten percent (10%) of the license tax on the last day of each month after the due date thereof, providing that the amount of such penalty to be added shall in no event exceed sixty percent of the amount of license tax due. (Ord. 77-6 § 1 (part): Ord. 118 § 20, 1966: prior code § 9221). 

Galt Market Business License Information

• To sell at the Galt Market, you are required to have a Galt Market Business License

• Market licenses can only be purchased, in person, at the Galt Market office located at:
  890 Caroline Avenue
  Galt, CA 95632

• For more information please contact the Market Office at 209-366-7161     

Exemptions 

• Businesses exempt under State or Federal Statutes

• Charitable organizations (proof of non-profit status is required)

• Businesses conducted in home in residential zone with annual gross receipts of $1,000 or less (Schedule C may be required)

• Owner or Partner who has been honorably discharged from one of the branches of the United States Armed Forces (Form DD214 required)

• Farmers, poultry men, or horticulturists who sell exclusively their own products

• Banks; Insurance Companies or Associations; Intercity Transportation Business; Interstate Commerce

California State Board of Equalization (BOE) - Information, forms and publications. 

US Small Business Administration - Choose your business name (Doing Business As (DBA) name). Register your business name and protect it.

Department of Consumer Affairs - Board of Barbering and Cosmetology, forms for salons or barbershops.

State of California Department of Industrial Relations - Labor Commissioner's Office, tools and resources for employers.