Doing Business in San Ramon

Demographics

San Ramon’s robust talent pool and workforce, and its wide range of affordable and flexible commercial real estate options, make it a prime location for companies from a variety of industries. Businesses of all sizes have successfully made San Ramon their home and enjoy the support of the community.

A number of small businesses abound in our city. San Ramon is also home to a number of high technology companies, ranging from entrepreneurial startups to international companies with thousands of customers worldwide such as SAP America, IBM, AT&T, Toshiba, GE Digital, Blackberry and Five9. San Ramon is the corporate headquarters of Chevron Corporation and technology leaders Accela and Five9 are headquartered in San Ramon, as well as 24-Hour Fitness, the third largest fitness club franchise in the world with gyms in the United States and Asia. 

Craft brewers, bioscience, software, hardware, and clean energy companies contribute ideas, inventions, and products that positively affect the local economy and better life for everyone. Innovation is encouraged here and the next generation of cutting edge technology is right around the corner.

 

 
Frequently Asked Questions

I’m thinking of starting a business in San Ramon. Who should I contact?

Let the Planning Division be your first point of contact. To reach the Division, call (925) 973-2560, or email planningpublic@sanramon.ca.gov. Visit the Business License page to learn more about how to apply for a business license.

Are there local business groups who can help me?

The San Ramon Chamber of Commerce creates an opportunity to meet new people, prospects and build your business. You can contact Kat Fanning at (925) 242-0600 or by email at info@sanramon.org.

Where should I locate my business?
A variety of resources can help you find a business location: City staff, commercial brokers, website listings, and shopping district leaders. For more information, please visit the Retail Center map for contact information or the Planning Services Division. When considering a business location, you should also consider zoning requirements & regulations. Check zoning and building codes before selecting your business location.
How can I find out which licenses and permits I need for my business?

The California Government: On-line to Desktops (CalGOLD) will help you determine which local, regional, state and federal licenses and permits you will need for your business operation.

What are the requirements to establish a business in my home?

If you wish to conduct a business from your home within the City of San Ramon, you must obtain approval for a Home Occupation Permit and City Business License.  For additional information on the review process and application forms, see the  Home Occupation Permit page.

Who can help me recruit qualified employees?

The Workforce Development Board of Contra Costa County offers assistance with employee recruitment and training. The San Ramon Chamber of Commerce is a good source of information, as well as local colleges such as Diablo Valley College, Las Positas College, and St. Mary's College.

Who can I contact for business loans?

In addition to working with a commercial lender, you can look to the Small Business Administration for help finding the right loan for your business. For information, call (916) 735-1700.

How do I become a vendor for the City of San Ramon?

The City of San Ramon does not have one central vendors list. However, a Department that purchases the same goods and services frequently may have a list of vendors they tend to use for those purchases.

We encourage you to keep checking our Requests for Proposals page and Public Works Construction Projects page for any current projects that may be open, and subscribe to RFP emails to be notified whenever the RFP page is updated.