How to Apply for Business License

Thank you for taking the time to complete a Gilroy Business License. Below you'll see highlighted answers that will help you complete the application. The other questions are related directly to your business. If you have any questions at all, please do not hesitate to reach out. We are here to help you as much as we can!

Obtaining Business License Steps:

1. Visit the licensing portal link https://gilroy.hdlgov.com/

2. Click go to Business License Portal

3. Click Submit Business License Application

4. Click "Begin"

5. Choose Business Type: RETAIL SALES - GENERAL

6. Location: Outside

7. Enter Business Name

8. Enter Business Address

9. Enter Mail Address

10. Enter Business Description

    
    

*Ownership Type: Most small businesses are sole proprietorship or LLC; I am considered a sole proprietor because I am considered one person running Initial Mile.

• Sole proprietor is an unincorporated business owned and run by one individual where there is no legal distinction between the owner and the business.

• An LLC a flexible business structure that protects its owners' personal assets—like your home or savings—from business debts or lawsuits. It acts as a legal shield, meaning creditors generally cannot go after your personal property if the business faces financial trouble. 

11. Enter Employee Count

12. Enter Total Yearly Income

13. Start Date in City of Gilroy: 09/19/2026

14. Enter Business Phone Number

15. Enter email address

16. Enter SIC Code (Standard Industrial Code): You can find codes by simply typing in the food you serve in the dropdown box however the most common type for food vendors is the code 5812001 - Eating Places.

17. Provide Tobacco Number: NA

18. Want to become part of Gilroy Chamber of Commerce? No

19. Letter of Compliance? No

20. Go to Next Step

21. Enter Owner Information and Emergency Contact

22. Click done and review/submit application

*DISCLAIMER:

I am not an attorney, accountant, tax professional, or business consultant, and I am not qualified to provide legal, tax, or business formation advice. The information I share is based solely on my own personal experience operating as a sole proprietor and is intended for educational and informational purposes only.

My goal is simply to share what I have learned so you can better understand some of the options available. Every business owner's situation is different, and what worked for me may not be the best choice for you. Before deciding whether to operate as a sole proprietor, LLC, or another business structure, I encourage you to consult with a qualified attorney, CPA, or business advisor who can provide guidance specific to your circumstances.