Tax

Business License Tax

 Any person engaged in business in the City, including home-based businesses and landlords, must obtain and maintain a valid business license.  In 2025, Foster City voters approved Measure V which updated the structure of the City's Business License tax.  See the Business License Tax calculator and FAQ links below for more information.

A business license is issued without verification that the licensee is subject to or exempt from licensing by the state, county, federal,or any other governmental agency.  It is issued for revenue purposes only and does not constitute a permit to operate a business in violation of city ordinances or state laws.  Each first time license must be approved by the City departments of planning, building, fire, and police department, and the county health department as may be required.

Effective December 11, 2023, businesses may start applying or renewing their business licenses at HdL business support center using the following:

Website: https://fostercity.hdlgov.com/

Email: fostercity@hdlgov.com

Phone: (650) 331-2802