Where do I file a DBA in San Diego County?

With the San Diego County Assessor/Recorder/County Clerk (1600 Pacific Highway, San Diego). You must also publish the fictitious business name statement in a local newspaper — confirm steps on the County Clerk's site.

Do I form my LLC with San Diego 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 Diego County?

Usually yes — most San Diego County cities require a business license or tax certificate. Check your specific city.

Find Local Law

Business Law in San Diego 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 Diego County.

Operating under a name other than your legal name? File a fictitious business name (DBA) statement with the San Diego 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 Diego County Assessor/Recorder/County Clerk, 1600 Pacific Highway, San Diego, CA 92101

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 Diego County Clerk, and you'll need any business license your city requires. Verify current steps, fees, and the publication requirement on the County Clerk's official site.

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Frequently asked questions

Where do I file a DBA in San Diego County?: With the San Diego County Assessor/Recorder/County Clerk (1600 Pacific Highway, San Diego). You must also publish the fictitious business name statement in a local newspaper — confirm steps on the County Clerk's site.
Do I form my LLC with San Diego 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 Diego County?: Usually yes — most San Diego County cities require a business license or tax certificate. Check your specific city.

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