DHSed practical guide · Sources checked November 12, 2026
You can save time by asking the office responsible for the decision you need. A business adviser can help with a plan, but cannot approve a building. A business license and a health permit also serve different purposes.
A local starting number: the City-published department directory lists 760-329-6411. Say what you want to do and give the exact property address. Ask to be connected with the appropriate division.
Match the question to the office
- Planning: ask whether the proposed activity fits the location, whether a home occupation or land-use review applies, and what information staff need.
- Building: ask about proposed construction, equipment, changes to the space, permits and inspections.
- Business licensing: ask how to apply or renew and how fees will be calculated for your business.
- County Environmental Health: ask about a food operation, public pool or spa, and whether plans or an inspection are needed.
- OCIE SBDC: ask for business advising on your plan, budget, customers or financing preparation.
The directory used for the City telephone number was published in October 2025. Use the main number or current department page rather than relying on an individual staff member or extension staying the same.
Prepare this short introduction
“I want to open or expand a [type of business] at [address]. The work would include [visits, food, equipment or construction]. I have not yet [signed the lease or started the work]. Which review should I start with, and what should I send you?”
Bring a simple floor plan, equipment list, photos or a proposed menu if relevant. Tell staff if the address is only a candidate. Ask whether another agency must review the same proposal and whether you need to wait for one review before starting another.
Keep the answers usable
Record the date, office, name, question, answer and any document link. Distinguish preliminary guidance from an approval. Ask for a written explanation if an important cost or condition is unclear. A follow-up email that accurately describes the proposal can prevent two offices answering different versions of your question.
If online forms or English are difficult, ask what phone, in-person, interpretation or accessible-format help is available. Do not assume a helper can sign or make decisions for you without the agency's required permission.
Your next step
Choose your biggest unresolved question and make that one call first. For a location decision, use the address-check guide; for an application, use the business license guide. Find the business attraction guide if you are still deciding whether DHS fits your idea.
Keep going
Sources and updates
- City-published department directory, October 2025
- City business licensing: current application route
- County Environmental Health: food and pool plan-check contacts
- OCIE Small Business Development Center: business advice
Prepared by DHSed with AI assistance from the linked public sources. Check current availability and the rules for your situation with the responsible provider. Send a correction.