The City of Albany has partnered with HdL Companies to administer Business Licenses. Starting Monday, October 27, 2025, HdL Companies will process applications, renewals, and reissuances.
First, contact the Fire Department. All businesses with in-town locations have an annual fire inspection. New businesses will need to schedule an inspection to establish a Fire Prevention Factor fee before applying for the business license. Information about these fees can be found in the Fire Fees section of the Master Fee Schedule.
Fire Inspector: (510)528-5775
Fire-Fee-Verification-Form.pdf(PDF, 115KB)
If you have ceased doing business in the City, please call HdL customer service or update your account in the customer portal.
Unpaid fees will need to be settled before the cease will be completed.
Additional information is provided in the City of Albany Municipal Code, Chapter V.
In order to do business in Albany, you need to obtain a Business License.
Plan on obtaining a license within 15 days of commencing business to avoid late penalties and interest. Business owners must also be aware that they may require a fire inspection, scheduled through and performed by the Albany Fire Department, prior to completing the business license processes. Contractors and trades seeking building permits must possess an active business license prior to receiving a permit. A list of fees can be obtained from the City's Master Fee Schedule.
Business License Renewal payments are due January 31st of each year, whether a bill is received, or not.
Any payments received after January 31st will begin to incur late fees and penalties per City Code section § 5-2.10. Penalty for Non-Payment of Annual Business Tax.
https://Albany.hdlgov.com