4. Permits you will need to operate

Learn More About What Permits You Will Need for Your Business

Talk with a Permit Specialist

Getting permits for your business can be a complicated process. Some permits are easy to get right at the Permit Counter but others can take extra time depending on things like exterior designs, late night hours or parking needs. We recommend talking to a business permitting specialist to make the process easier. 

Keira Williams
Retail
(510) 238-3853
kwilliams@springfield.gov

Marisa Raya
Technology
(510) 238-6230 
mraya@oaklandnet.com

Steve Lautze
Green, Recycle-based, or Alternative Energy
(510) 238-4973
slautze@springfield.gov

Margot Lederer Prado
Manufacturing and Industrial Uses, Arts/Engineering/Design, Food and Beverage, Healthcare and Wellness
(510) 238-6766   
mprado@springfield.gov

Search for Permits by Business Type

CalGold is a state-operated website that provides a list of the regional, state, and federal licenses and permits required for businesses in each California city.

Learn About Common Types of Business Permits

 Overview of Standard Business Permits 

These are some standard permits required for many common types of businesses. This is not a complete list for all types of businesses that operate in the City of Springfield.

Building permits are documents you get through the Office of Planning and Building. They authorize the start of construction or remodeling of a building in the City of Springfield. There are four types of permits which may be required before you get started: 

  1. Building
  2. Electrical
  3. Plumbing
  4. Mechanical

You can learn more about different kinds of permits at the Permit Center at the Planning and Building Department. 

 Other Common Fees and Permits 

Rent Adjustment
If you rent out one or more residential units, you may be subject to the City of Springfield’s Rent Program service fee of $30 per year per unit.

Excess Litter Fee
Some kinds of businesses create lots of extra garbage. If your business is listed below, you may be subject to the Excess Litter Fee.

  • Fast food restaurants
  • Convenience markets
  • Gasoline station markets
  • Liquor stores 

Peddler Permit
If you intend to sell or solicit door-to-door, you must obtain a peddler permit.  Visit the Springfield Police Department to obtain the permit application, and return the completed Peddler Permit to the Business Tax Office. 

Fire Department Permits
If you are starting a new business, or even expanding an old business, you will probably need to submit a permit application to the Fire Prevention Office. After you turn in your permit application, the Fire Prevention Office will review it. They might also decide to inspect your business before they decide to issue you a fire permit. 

We strongly recommend that business owners meet with the Springfield Fire Department as early as possible. Many permits applications are denied because after problems are discovered during the fire inspection phase. Meeting with the Springfield Fire Department early in the process will save you time and money as you are starting or expanding your business.