Finding the Info & Resources You Need

Whether you are starting a new business or operating an existing business, the City of Cupertino is dedicated to making it easy for you to find the info and resources you need. 

Accessing City Services for Businesses

• Application for a Business License: Before you start your venture, apply for a business license, which is required by the City for all companies and persons conducting business in Cupertino. If your business will be using fictitious name, you need to register it with Santa Clara County 40 days before your first transaction and before obtaining a business license from Cupertino.   

• Online Business License Application Save a drive to City Hall by completing the application online. View the Business License User Guide for guidance and instruction.

• 2024 Business License Fees. Submit your application online. Payment can be done online, in person or by mail. If paying by check, please include business name.
• E-Services: Access the City's online services and resources available to your business through this information portal. Examples include: submitting a request for service, a complaint or a question through Access Cupertino; browsing City public records; scheduling a building inspection; and setting up an e-notification for City services.  
• Development Activity Report: Get information on developments and see what is planned through a visual app that shows activity in a map of the City.   
• Fee Schedule: See a listing of the City’s fees, including business license fees.
• Forms & Guides:
  
  • Building Guides (e.g., Commercial Plan Review Process Workbook)
  • Finance Forms
  • Online Application Forms
  • Policies and Forms (e.g., CalGreen, Certificate of Occupancy, BMP Plan Sheet, Contractor & Subcontractor List, etc.)
• How to Start Your Business in Cupertino: This booklet is a key resource that guides you through the necessary steps for starting a business and provides a helpful checklist.  

Finding a Property

• Real Estate: Begin your search for commercial or residential properties by contacting the Economic Development Manager at 408.777.7607 or by checking these links to real estate associations and online search engines.  
• Retail Centers: Take a tour here of Cupertino’s conveniently located shopping centers along the major thoroughfares of Stevens Creek Boulevard, Wolfe Road, De Anza Boulevard and Homestead Road.
• Zoning Information: Before signing a lease or purchase agreement, contact the City’s Planning Department at 408.777.3308 to determine site zoning and any development regulations.

Connecting with Utility, Transportation & Environmental Services

• Air & Water Quality: Join the City in maintaining our quality of life for residents and businesses by following the air and water quality protection requirements and recommendations on the City’s stormwater pollution prevention webpage.
• Commute Alternatives: Help your employees choose the best way to get to work on the City’s Traffic webpage and on the 511 website, a one-stop-shop for carpool ride matching, public transit options and bike-friendly routes.
• Electricity & Natural Gas: Pacific and Gas Electric Company (PG&E) offers small businesses ways to make bill payments more manageable. Your business can save money and energy—and help the environment—by learning about rebates and incentives for energy efficiency upgrades online or by calling PG&E’s Business Customer Service Center at 800.468.4743.
• Resource Conservation: Distinguish your business as an environmental leader by saving energy and water, while cutting waste and costs. Join GreenBiz Cupertino.
• Waste, Recycling & Compost Services: Recology provides materials management services for Cupertino businesses and households. Visit Recology’s South Bay website to ensure that your organization is diverting materials from the landfill.
• Water: Businesses located in Cupertino receive potable water for indoor and outdoor use from either San Jose Water Company or California Water Service Company. For help in conserving water, businesses may access the Santa Clara Valley Water District’s programs, which include  landscape surveys and rebates.

Zooming in to Other Resources 

• CalGOLD: This State of California website can help your business navigate federal, state and local environmental and other regulatory and permitting requirements and find points of contact.
• California Secretary of State: This office provides the info you need to determine what, if any, formation documents you must file with the State.   
• Cupertino Chamber of Commerce: This non-profit business organization collaborates with government, educational institutions and private industry to assist and strengthen local businesses.  
• NOVA: This non-profit employment and training agency partners with local businesses and organizations to provide workforce development services.  
• Silicon Valley Leadership Group: This trade association represents more than 400 employers on issues, programs and campaigns that affect economic health and quality of life in Silicon Valley.  
• Silicon Valley SCORE: Experienced business people provide small businesses with consulting, mentoring and workshops.    
• Silicon Valley Small Business Development Center (SVBDC): This nonprofit organization provides no-cost advice and low-cost workshops to guide small businesses to success and accomplishment.
• U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA): The SBA offers business training classes and information on how to create a business plan.