Title 5 of the City of El Cajon Municipal Code requires all businesses conducting business within the City limits to obtain a business license and pay the business license tax. This includes those who work out of their home, and businesses from outside the City of El Cajon that perform services and/or sales at the customer's place of business or residence in El Cajon.

The most convenient and fastest way to do a business license transaction is using the online filing method. To begin, simply click on the link below to do the following:

• Apply for a new business license
• Renew an existing business license
• Pay a balance 
• Update an existing business license
• Close an existing business license
• Search for an existing licensed El Cajon business

 Business License Forms 

The business license application form and other related instructions can also be downloaded by clicking the links below. The application paper form can be filled out online, printed for signature, and submitted for processing to the Finance Department, located at the El Cajon City Hall, 200 Civic Center Way, El Cajon, CA, 92020.

For businesses with a location inside the City limits, the Community Development Department will review the application to ensure that the proposed business location is in an approved zone for the business use.  In addition, businesses conducted within a residential dwelling (Home Occupation) must comply with the Home Occupation Requirements in the Zoning Ordinance.

Business licenses expire on December 31 and courtesy renewal notices are mailed mid-November of each year. The business license renewal process usually takes four to six weeks in the months of December, January and February. However, it may take longer if the business location and/or description of business has changed.

• Business License Application (pdf)
• Business License Tax Rates & Fees
• Business License Application FAQs
• Business License Renewals FAQs
• Additional Resources
• MEKHO Quick Facts

Disability Access Requirements (AB 3002)

In accordance with California Government Code 4469.5, the City is required to provide notice to business owners regarding disability access requirements and resources. To read the full notice, click on the link below:

• Disability Access Requirements Notice

Special Operation and Other Licenses

In addition to a business license, a special operation license is required of those businesses and activities enumerated in City of El Cajon Municipal Code Section 5.16.030. Regulation by the City is necessary for the described businesses in order to adequately protect and promote the health, safety and general welfare of the community.  Additional forms and fees are required for special operations and other licenses. Please contact our office for further instructions.

• ECMC Section 5.16.030 – List of Businesses and Activities

Monthly business license listings are available by going to the Online Business License - Business Search.

City of El Cajon
Business License Division
200 Civic Center Way, El Cajon, CA 92020
(619) 441-1668  Email: Business License

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