San Bernardino · the Inland Empire
Bookkeeping for San Bernardino businesses
The San Bernardino business registration certificate in plain words
San Bernardino calls its license a business registration certificate. The city's Finance Department, through its Business Registration Division, issues it.
You need an approved Zoning Verification Review from the Planning Division when you submit your application. This applies even if you are buying an existing business or moving into a space that was used for the same kind of business. If you do not get the certificate within 60 days, you need a new zoning verification.
The city lets you register online, but some business types must apply in person. Start on the City of San Bernardino business registration page.
Records to keep for your San Bernardino license
| Record | What to keep | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Zoning Verification Review | The approved copy and the date | The 60 day clock can run out and you would need a new one |
| Business registration certificate | A copy and the renewal date | You can plan for the renewal and the cost |
| City fees you paid | Receipts for each fee | We record them as license and permit expense |
| Sale papers, if you bought a business | The purchase agreement | Your books should show what you paid and when |
How we work with San Bernardino businesses
We do monthly bookkeeping and payroll. We work in QuickBooks Online and Xero. We close your books by day 10 and send a profit and loss statement, a balance sheet and a cash summary.
We are not the city and we are not lawyers. Rules, costs and forms change, so always check with the city before you apply or renew. This guide is based on the city's own business license information.
Questions people ask
- Do I need zoning approval first in San Bernardino?
- Yes. The city asks for an approved Zoning Verification Review with your application, even when you buy an existing business. Check the city's business registration page for the current steps.
- Do you apply for or renew my San Bernardino license for me?
- No. You apply and renew with the city. We record what you paid in your books.
- Do you do payroll for my staff?
- Yes. Payroll is one of our two services, along with monthly bookkeeping.
Details checked in October 2026 from the City of San Bernardino's business license information. Rules and fees change, so confirm with the city.