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Business Law in San Bernardino County

By Find Local Law Editorial Team · Last reviewed: May 24, 2026

Researched and drafted with AI assistance and verified against primary sources (statutes, Judicial Council forms, and official court websites). This is general information, not legal advice.

Most of starting a California business happens at the state level — you file your LLC or corporation with the Secretary of State. A few steps are local in San Bernardino County.

Operating under a name other than your legal name? File a fictitious business name (DBA) statement with the San Bernardino County Assessor-Recorder-County Clerk, then publish it in a local newspaper. You’ll also likely need a city business license.

Start with choosing a business entity, then form an LLC or a corporation. To get matched with a local business attorney, connect with a lawyer.

Local business filings

County Clerk: San Bernardino County Assessor-Recorder-County Clerk (Hall of Records), 222 W. Hospitality Lane, San Bernardino, CA 92415

Forming an LLC or corporation is a state filing with the Secretary of State, but a fictitious business name (DBA) statement is filed locally with the San Bernardino County Assessor-Recorder-County Clerk, and you'll need any business license your city requires. Verify current steps, fees, and the publication requirement on the official site.

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Frequently asked questions

Where do I file a DBA in San Bernardino County?
With the San Bernardino County Assessor-Recorder-County Clerk (Hall of Records, 222 W. Hospitality Lane). You must also publish the statement in a local newspaper — confirm steps on the official site.
Do I form my LLC with San Bernardino County?
No — LLCs and corporations are formed with the California Secretary of State. The county handles the DBA; your city handles business licenses.
Do I need a business license in San Bernardino County?
Usually yes — most cities require a business license. Check your specific city.

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