Oakland Business Assistance Center - Buildings, Property & Streets

The City of Oakland offers matching grant programs to help property owners and tenants in certain areas improve their buildings. See the Grants page for more information.
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Negotiating A Lease

Advice and checklists from several different legal and business resources regarding negotiating a lease.
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Permits

There are several permits, fees, and other governmental requirements for businesses to legally operate. The Permits and Fees page includes building, property and street-related requirements, including fees for businesses who have residential rental units.
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Utilities

Gas and electrical services in Oakland are provided by Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E). Information about their services for businesses can be found on their website. http://www.pge.com/mybusiness/
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Zoning

If you plan to operate a business in Oakland (including a home office), you will need to obtain a zoning permit called a Zoning Clearance. You do not need a Zoning Clearance if your business is located outside of Oakland or if your business activity is a rental property operator. The Zoning Clearance is granted if your business is allowed in the proposed location. In some instances, ahead of obtaining a Zoning Clearance, a proposed business activity must also go through a special Conditional Use Permit process to determine whether the activity will be allowed.