Start a Business – The City of Fountain Valley Economic Development Division

Fountain Valley is a great place to start and grow your business

Here’s why

Committed city staff determined to help your business succeed
More for your money
Strong commercial real estate market
Innovative technology hubs
FV is home to small, medium and large-size businesses
Businesses have access to funding and resources
Active networking groups; Chamber of Commerce, FV Restaurant Association and more!
Low cost of living
Residents want to shop, dine and play in FV
Small city located in beautiful Orange County, CA
New businesses create new jobs
Residents and businesses support and care about our local schools
Active community engagement and events
Public safety is always top of mind

Opening a business in the City of Fountain Valley may require several or just a few steps depending on the nature of your business. This information is intended to guide you step-by-step through the process.

Applying for a Business License

We strongly recommend that before you pursue opening any business that you stop by or call and speak with a city representative. Planning Department staff can be reached at
714-593-4425.

The City has contracted with HdL Companies to provide assistance to the business community for all business licensing needs. The HdL Business Support Center offers extended support hours (Monday through Friday 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.) via phone at 714-855-3982. You may also contact the HdL Business Support Center by email at [email protected]. You may also choose to take advantage of our new online filing and payment portal which will allow you the convenience of filing and paying your business license tax online at http://fountainvalley.hdlgov.com.

Preliminary Project Review

A highly beneficial service that the city offers new businesses is a preliminary review of their project. The preliminary review is an informal screening process which provides the applicant an opportunity to discuss major project issues before submitting a formal application for a project. It acts as a general review for compliance with development standards, parking standards, zoning, and General Plan consistency, and identifies pertinent site related issues.

Simply download the Preliminary Review Form (PDF), fill it out, and email it to a Planner. You may also fax it to 714-593-4525. You will be contacted shortly after. Using this service can save you time and money!