Here is a list of our most commonly asked questions and answers. For more information, please contact us at [email protected] or call (650) 726-8380. We’re here to help!
Sales Tax
- City of Half Moon Bay
- 9.875%% – As of April 1, 2025
- Unincorporated Coastside (Everywhere Else)
- 9.375% – As of January 1, 2023
Minimum Wage
- City of Half Moon Bay
- $17.47/Hour – Beginning January 1, 2025
- Unincorporated Coastside (Everywhere Else)
- $17.46/Hour – Beginning January 1, 2025
Both the City & County use CPI to calculate the next year’s minimum wage.
Current Wage + CPI = Next Wage
Obtaining a Business License
- City of Half Moon Bay
All businesses operating in HMB must have a license. This includes home-based businesses like Airbnb rentals. The City uses a company named HdL to handle the business license process. Click here to apply for or renew a City business license. - Unincorporated Coastside (Everywhere Else)
It depends on the business type. The County of San Mateo only requires a business license for a few business categories. Currently, the (3) common categories requiring a license are; Peddler/Solicitor, Bingo Operator, or Temporary Event operator. To ensure a Business License is required prior to purchasing an application, you may contact the Office of Planning and Building at (650) 363-4161. Click here to apply for a County business license.
