Finance and Information Systems FAQ's
Business License | Utiltity Billing |
| Business License |
I have a business license that was issued by Contra Costa County. Why do I need another business license?
The Contra Costa County business license only allows you to operate in the unincorporated areas of Contra Costa County and is not valid for business operations conducted within the City of Brentwood. You will need to obtain a separate business license to operate within the City of Brentwood.
Do I need a City of Brentwood Business License?
If you’re starting or operating a business in Brentwood, you must obtain a business license. Even if you conduct business in Brentwood from an office located outside of Brentwood, you are require to obtain a business license.
Do I need a State License?
Depending on the type of business being conducted, please consult the Department of Consumer Affairs at www.dca.ca.gov or 400 “R” Street, Sacramento or call toll free (800) 952-5210. Building Contractors contact the California Contractors State License Board at www.cslb.ca.gov or 9821 Business Park Dr, Sacramento or call toll free (800) 321-2752.
Do I need a Federal Tax Number (FEIN)?
An Employer Identification Number (EIN), also known as a federal tax identification number, is used to identify a business entity. Generally a partnership, corporation or LLC business needs an EIN. Most banks require an EIN when opening a corporate bank account. You will need an EIN if you answer "Yes" to any of the following questions: Do you have employees? Do you operate your business as a corporation or a partnership? Do you file any of these tax returns: Employment, Excise, or Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms? Do you withhold taxes on income, other than wages, paid to a non-resident alien? Do you have a Keogh plan? Are you involved with any of the following types of organizations?
- Trusts, except certain grantor-owned revocable trusts, IRAs, Exempt Organization Business Income Tax Returns
- Estates
- Real estate mortgage investment conduits
- Non-profit organizations
- Farmers' cooperatives
- Plan administrators
Do I need a Sellers Permit?
If you sell tangible personal property, you are required to obtain a Seller’s Permit from the State Board of Equalization (SBE) for the purpose of collecting and reporting sales tax to the State of California.
I have a business license that was issued by Contra Costa County. Why do I need another business license?
The Contra Costa County business license only allows you to operate in the unincorporated areas of Contra Costa County and is not valid for business operations conducted within the City of Brentwood. You will need to obtain a separate business license to operate within the City of Brentwood.
How can I verify if a business operating in Brentwood has a current business license?
You may telephone the Business License Division at (925) 516-5480 and provide the name and/or street location of the business. The Business License Division will verify whether or not the business has a current business license.
How long does it take to get a business license?
Once you have completed your application and paid your fees, it takes approximately two (2) weeks to process the actual Business License Tax. The Business License Tax certificate is then mailed to the address reflected on the application. We issue the license only to a physical address. You may still have a PO Box for mailing purpose only.
Will I need a fictitious business name?
If any name is used other than your personal proper name, you must register your business name with the County Clerk Recorder to get a Fictitious Business Name Statement.
Is my business license transferable?
Business tax certificates are not transferable.
Is there a fee for the Home Zoning Review Application?
Yes, upon application approval, the Home Zoning Review Application is $50.
What is a Home Zoning Review Application?
A Home Zoning Review Application is required for a business when a commercial or other activity is conducted in a home, in the City of Brentwood by the resident, which the activity is clearly incidental and secondary to the use of the home as a residence and which exhibits no external evidence of the activity and will not change the residential character of the dwelling. In other words, if you are conducting business in the City of Brentwood, live in the City of Brentwood and do not operate from a commercial/store front location in the City, you must obtain a Home Zoning Review Application. The Home Zoning Review Application lists prohibited uses and prohibited activities and must be approved by the City of Brentwood’s Community Development Department prior to issuance of the business license.
If I have conducted business in Brentwood without a Brentwood business license, how far back must I pay?
If you have been actively engaged in business without having paid the business license tax, you may be liable for the last 3 years of taxes and penalties.
When and how often am I required to pay?
The City of Brentwood’s business licenses are on a calendar quarter basis; i.e., business licenses expire 3/31, 6/30, 9/30 or 12/31 of each year. For example, if you purchase an annual license anytime between 1/1 and 3/31, it will expire on 12/31. The business license tax shall be paid annually. As a courtesy to the business community, the City will send renewal notices.
What are the business license tax rates?
Businesses are taxed based on their estimated gross receipts for the first year in the City of Brentwood. The tax rate can be calculated on the City’s web site http://www.ci.brentwood.ca.us/department/finance/calc_tax.cfm or on the business license application form. The minimum business license fee is $100.
Depending on the type of business being conducted, please consult the Department of Consumer Affairs at www.dca.ca.gov or 400 “R” Street, Sacramento or call toll free (800) 952-5210. Building Contractors contact the California Contractors State License Board at www.cslb.ca.gov or 9821 Business Park Dr, Sacramento or call toll free (800) 321-2752.
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| Utility Billing |
Can I have my payment automatically deducted from my checking account?
The City currently offers two options for automatic payments. We can debit your checking account or your credit card. There are forms available in the Utility Billing office or on the web site to sign up for either of these payment options.
How do I establish service for water and garbage?
Begin the process by contacting the Utility Billing Department at 516-5415. They will set up your water, sewer and garbage account.
I have a complaint about my water bill, who may I contact?
Contact our Utility Billing Division at 516-5415 and anyone of our customer service assistants will be happy to help you.
When is my bill due?
Bills are due upon receipt and must be paid prior to the next billing date to avoid a late charge. Unpaid previous balances will be assessed a 5% late charge penalty.
Can I get an extension on my past due bill?
In many cases we can work out payment arrangements for our customers. Customer Services Representative can help you, by calling 925-516-5415, Monday through Friday 8:00am to 5pm.
Have you received my payment?
To find out if we have received your payment, or call 925-516-5415, Monday through Friday 8:00am to 5pm.
Where can I pay my bill?
You can pay your water bill at City Hall at 150 City Park Way between 8:00 and 5:00 pm Monday thru Friday. You can drop off your payment at one of the two drop boxes located outside city Hall. You can also mail your payment to City Hall 150 City Park Way, Brentwood, CA 94513. When you use the envelope provided, your payment will be mailed directly to the payment processing center. Payments are also accepted over the phone with a Visa/MasterCard or Debit card with the Visa/MasterCard logo by calling 925-516-5415, Monday through Friday 8:30a.m. to 5p.m.
What are the City of Brentwood's hours?
The City of Brentwood’s office hours are 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday with the exception of holidays.
Do you accept credit card payments?
Yes, The City of Brentwood accepts Visa/MasterCard or a Debit card with the Visa/MasterCard logo.
I had a high bill because of a toilet leak; can I get an adjustment?
No. We are unable to provide credit for excessive water usage. The City of Brentwood’s policy is to provide a one-time adjustment to the "units of water delivered" portion of your bill if you have had an underground/concealed leak that you repaired. Before and after your leak is repaired, call 925-516-5415 and speak to a Customer Service Representative to request a leak adjustment.
Is a deposit required to establish water service?
No.
Do you offer discounts for low income customers or senior citizens?
Yes, through an application for senior citizen/total permanent disability discount, residents may apply for a discount
Why does the City of Brentwood charge an Account Activation Fee when I have had service with the City of Brentwood before?
The account activation fee covers the costs of computer setting up a new account. This account covers the set up of the account in our systems as well as the dispatching of a water technician to obtain a starting read on your meter.
Does the City of Brentwood have an automatic payment program?
Yes, residents may apply for automatic payment using their Visa/MasterCard or Debit with the Visa/MasterCard logo or checking account.
What is the wastewater (sewer) treatment charge on my bill?
Wastewater is “used” water, generated by homes, industry, schools and businesses. The fees are based on operating expenses, construction and replacement of facilities, State and Federal environmental regulations and higher construction and utility costs.
I believe my utility bill is wrong, who should I contact?
You can contact the City of Brentwood Utility Billing Department at 925-516-5415.
I haven’t received my utility bill this month, what should I do?
Please contact the City of Brentwood Utility Billing Department at 150 City Park Way or by calling 925-516-5415.
Who do I contact to report a water leak?
Please contact the City of Brentwood Utility Billing Department at 925-516-5415, Monday through Friday 8:00a.m to 5:00p.m. After Hours Water or Sewer Emergency contact Police Dispatch (925) 778-2441.
I want to report bad tasting/looking water, who should I contact?
You can contact the City of Brentwood Public Works Department at 925-516-6000.
How can I conserve water?
For information on how to conserve water, please contact the City of Brentwood Public Works Department at 925-516-6000.
My water is about to be cut off and I need help, who should I contact?
You can contact the City of Brentwood Utility Billing Department at 150 City Park Way or by calling 925-516-5415.
Do you charge a fee when I use an ATM or credit card?
No.
My garbage was missed, who do I call?
Please call the Public Works Solid Waste Division at (925) 516-6090 or you may submit a Service Request.
What is the garbage schedule for holidays?
There are only 2 holidays during the year that affect garbage service. These are Christmas Day and New Year's Day. If your service day is on or after these holidays, and they fall on a Monday through Friday, you will be serviced one day later for that week only. Garbage service is on regular schedule for all other holidays. If one of the above holidays fall on a Saturday or a Sunday, there is no change at all to your service day. Recycle and Yard Waste Calendar
When are the bills for water/sewer/garbage mailed and when are they due?
You will receive one bill each month for your water, sewer, and garbage services. Mailing and due dates are dependent upon the service location within 1 of the 4 City “zones”. Payment is due upon receipt. If you do not receive your bill or have questions regarding billing, please call the Utility Billing Department at (925) 516-5415. For questions regarding garbage service, please call (925) 516-6090.
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