WHO IS REQUIRED TO BE LICENSED?
All persons or companies conducting business in the City of Escalon are required to obtain a business
license and to pay the business license tax. This includes retail outlets, wholesalers, manufacturers and
their representatives, service companies, self-employed professionals, independent contractors and
home businesses. If you conduct business in Escalon from an office located outside of Escalon, you are
also required to obtain a business license.
WHEN AND HOW OFTEN AM I REQUIRED TO PAY?
All license taxes are payable prior to beginning work. All business licenses expire December 31st. The
business license tax must be paid annually. As a courtesy to the business community, the City does send
renewal notices. The City is not required, however, to send notification to any person who is liable for
the tax. It is the responsibility of the individual business owner to be aware of their business license tax
due date and to remit payment in a timely manner.
WHAT ARE THE TAX RATES?
The business license tax is based on the nature of a particular business as defined by the Municipal
Code. Businesses will be taxed either on gross receipts or according to their classification. Please refer
to the “Business License Fees & Categories” which is available on the City of Escalon’s website or in
person at City Hall.
WHAT IF I DON’T PAY?
Any person who fails to pay the business license tax prior to the due date will be subject to a 10%
penalty every 30 days thereafter (i.e. Jan. 31
st 10%; Feb. 28th addt’l 10%; and so on). If not renewed by
June 1st, business license will be ceased and you will have to reapply.
IS MY BUSINESS LICENSE TRANSFERABLE?
Business licenses are not transferable to a new owner(s). When purchasing a business, the new
owner(s) must apply for their own business license.
WILL I NEED A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME?
In the case of an individual, if a business name does not include the surname of the individual, the City of Escalon recommends that you apply for one; however, it is not a requirement. For further information, contact the San Joaquin County Recorder’s Office:
44 N San Joaquin Street
Second Floor
Stockton, CA 95202
(209) 468-3939
OTHER QUESTIONS?
For all other questions and inquiries, please reach out the the City of Escalon Business License Department at (209) 691-7430 or
[email protected].