Thank you for choosing San Mateo as the City where you are starting, growing or relocating your business!

Why San Mateo? Located in the heart of the Peninsula, San Mateo offers businesses the advantage of a diverse economy, a highly skilled workforce, and a strong local consumer base. As the only Peninsula city with three Caltrain stations (Downtown San Mateo, Hayward Park, and Hillsdale) and at the crossroads of two major highways, the City provides exceptional regional connectivity and is centrally located between San Francisco, Oakland, and San Jose, making it easy for employees and customers to access local businesses. Our active downtown and neighborhood commercial districts provide a vibrant customer base and a diverse range of commercial spaces ready for occupancy. San Mateo's high quality of life, strong household incomes, and culture of supporting local establishments further support the ability to be successful long term. For additional information of community demographics, wages and labor information please visit the explore communities tool. Once you have decided on San Mateo for your business, available properties can be viewed though loopnet. 

Ready to make the move to San Mateo?

 Before starting a business in the City of San Mateo, it is important to understand the process and requirements necessary. 

1. Confirm Zoning Compliance
   Before signing a lease or beginning operations, the applicant should verify that the proposed business use is allowed at the desired location under the City's Zoning Code. Some users are permitted by right, while others may require a special use permit. In order to verify the use is permitted, you can locate the property you are interested in on the zoning map and review the list of uses within the city's Zoning Code or utilize the use chart. you may also use the business search tool to check where you may locate your business. 
   
   For questions about where a use can be located and other applicable requirements, please contact the Planning Division at planning@cityofsanmateo.org
   
   
2. Submit a Planning Application (if required)
   If exterior changes are proposed to the site, such as an addition, creation of an outdoor dining space, change in parking, or even facade improvements, a planning application may be required. To verify if a planning application is needed, please email the Planning Division with a summary of proposed exterior changes at the site. Review timelines vary depending on the type and scope of the application. City staff work closely with applicants to ensure an efficient review process while meeting established procedures.
3. Apply for a Business Tax Application (can be completed before or after permitting)
   Once zoning compliance is confirmed and any necessary planning applications are approved; the business must obtain a Business Tax Application. A Business License does not authorize construction or approve occupancy of a space; it simply registers the business with the City for tax and regulatory purposes.
   
   Business Tax Applications can be applied for online and are issued by the Finance Department.
   
   
4. Obtain Building Permits
   If the business involves interior or exterior modifications, tenant improvements, signage, or equipment installation, building permits are required prior to commencing any physical work. Plans will be reviewed for compliance with Building, Fire, Accessibility, and other applicable codes. General questions about the building permit process can be directed to the Permit Center at building.info@cityofsanmateo.org

Need Help? Schedule a Small Business Support Consultation

Applicants who are interested in opening a business in the City of San Mateo and have a general idea of their proposed business, but need assistance navigating the permitting and approval process, are welcome to schedule a 30-minute consultation with the Small Business Support Team. This service is intended for small business owners seeking guidance on next steps, applicable permits, and process coordination. 

To request a consultation, please email businesssupport@cityofsanmateo.org with a brief summary of your proposal, location of business, proposed business use, and/or a list of specific questions for the team to prepare ahead and provide helpful information. 

For more general or department-specific questions (e.g., zoning regulations, building permits, or business licensing requirements), applicants are encouraged to contact the applicable City department directly. Additional information helpful to businesses interested in San Mateo can be found in the City's Business Resource Guide.