Oakland Hair Salon License Requirements (2026)

📋 Your checklist

State

1. California establishment license (Board of Barbering and Cosmetology)
   A shop needs a BBC establishment license; $50 non-refundable application fee.
   ⏰ Renew every 2 years: $40 ($20 delinquent fee)
   Source: California BBC: Establishment application · California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology: License renewals
2. Each stylist's Cosmetologist or Hairstylist license (BBC)
   Everyone doing hair holds their own BBC license.
   ⏰ Renew every 2 years: $50 ($25 delinquent fee)
   Source: California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology: License renewals
3. Secretary of State and Franchise Tax Board filings
   LLCs and corporations file a Statement of Information ($20 or $25) and most businesses pay at least $800 a year in Franchise Tax. A business name other than your own is filed with your county.
   ⏰ Statement of Information: frequency depends on entity type (verify). Franchise tax: yearly
   Source: California Secretary of State: Business entities FAQs

Local (Oakland / Alameda County)

1. City of Oakland Business Tax Certificate
   Required for everyone doing business in Oakland, including self-employed, independent contractors and home businesses; Oakland-based businesses need a Zoning Clearance first. Registration fee due within 30 days of starting (late 10%, then 35%, plus 1%/month interest).
   ⏰ Due on or before March 1 every year; late: 10% then 35%, 1%/month interest, $50 late filing fee
   Source: City of Oakland: Business Taxes, Licenses & Permits