Business license for auto detailing and other cleaning services?

Question

I am trying to start a small business with Autodetailing hand handcarwashing (a Mobile one) and I am also wanting to get contracts to do cleaning in like big houses and or offices such as dealerships, schools ect. Can I obtain one license that supports both duties or do I have to have two different business licenses? Is there any other license I need? I live in Orange County CALIFORNIA. Another question I had.. is a ficticious name part of getting a business license? What exactly are the steps I must take?

Thank you

Answer 1

Yes, you need to get a dba at the Recorders Office,  Its located in Santa Ana at the courthouse.  You will need to get a business license for most cities, however, you don't need for several of the cities in Orange County.  There is a website on how to start a cleaning business and it gives you a square footage price estimate chart at http://cleanuptheprofit.com

Answer 2

Tim answered correctly so I won't repeat his answer.

You will need to ask the city clerk's office whether one or two license are needed.  Bear in mind, the real purpose of a business license is so the government can tax you.

A fictitious business name is good to have (though that triggers tax grabbing, too) so you can open a business checking account (cash those checks) and get wholesale pricing on supplies, etc.

I think THE most important thing for you to have is good insurance, both liability (or a bond) for possible damages, and vehicle, if you are going to do mobile cleaning.

You have big plans, which is great, but start off small and grow.  Learn about contracts, bidding & estimates, book-keeping, customer retention and more.  I have a fantastic cleaning business kit resource at my squidoo lens-and it's less than $39!

Answer 3

You get a license through the city business license offices. The fictitious business name filing is through the county recorder office. Two separate things.

You will also need to publish your notice for fictitious name in the newspaper for a few weeks. Suggest you want a week after filing the statement. You'll get offers in the mail for smaller papers at better prices for the posting rather than a large paper.