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Starting a Business

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Welcome to Business (Stormwater) Registration for the Stormwater Compliance Program.  Although the County of Riverside does not have a business license program, if you are conducting business as defined in Ordinance No. 857 within the unincorporated areas of the County of Riverside you are required to register for a Business (Stormwater) Registration for stormwater compliance.  Any person who does not register is subject to the procedures and penalties set forth in Ordinance No. 857.

Who is required to register?  Every person conducting business as defined in Ordinance No. 857.1 in unincorporated areas of the County Of Riverside must register their business for Stormwater Compliance.  A separate registration must be obtained for each physical location.  Any person who does not register their business is subject to the procedures and penalties set forth in the Ordinance 857.1.

What is the application procedure? To obtain a Business (Stormwater) Registration only takes a few minutes and may be completed by mail, in person, by e-mail, or online at www.rctlma.org/trans/stormwatercompliance 
How much will the registration cost?  Registration fees charged pursuant to Ordinance No. 857.1 are as follows:

  •     Registration Fee (First Year)    $45
  •     Annual Renewal Fee        $30
  •     Change of Name/Location    $30
  •     Duplicate Registration        $10

How long is the Stormwater Compliance certificate good for? Your certificate is good for one year from the date of issuance.   Renewal fees are due 30 days prior to expiration. 

What if I do not register my business?  It is a violation of Ordinance No. 857.1 to not register your business for Stormwater Compliance.  Non-compliance with the County Of Riverside Ordinances can result in a citation.

What if I operate a mobile business?  If you are operating a mobile business in the unincorporated area of the County Of Riverside you will need to register your business.

What if my business also conducts business in another City or County?  Most California cities and counties have a business license Ordinance.  Each jurisdiction however has its own filing fee and requirements.  Check with the appropriate jurisdiction for its fees. 

Do I need a registration for growing or producing agricultural products?  Yes.  All agricultural businesses must register; however, some agricultural activities may be exempt from fees. 

Do state licensed contractors need a business license?  Yes.  Any person licensed as a contractor by the State Contractors Board must obtain a Business (Stormwater) Registration certificate.  Most home occupations are exempt from paying fees.  The fee exemption shall not apply to those home occupations that are subject to comply with storm water quality requirements. 

If I am exempt from fees do I still have to register? Yes.  Businesses that are exempt from paying fees must still register within 60 days of notification.

If I am a Non-Profit business, do I have to register?  Yes.  You are required to register, but are exempt from paying fees if your organization is legally recognized as tax exempt pursuant to the provisions of Internal Revenue Code Section 501 (c)(3) and your exemption is filed within 60 days of notification of the County’s registration requirements.


FACT SHEET

Starting a Business - Fact Sheet

Contact Info

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CAC

Riverside County Administrative Center
4080 Lemon Street, 8th Floor
Riverside, CA 92502-1629

Phone: (951) 955-6880
Hours:  Mon-Fri, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Click to view map and get directions.