Legal Question in Business Law in California

Threshold requirement for business registration or permit

Dear Sir or Madam:

I am a recent college graduate currently being employed on a part-time basis by a company in San Francisco. I also live in the San Francisco area. My question is if I am in possession of some personal goods (such as camera and computer) and intend to sell them to others, will I be required to apply for any type of business license to sell in California? Does it make a difference if I sell the item to another individual or to a company?

Do I fall into the category of ''Sole Proprietorship'' as an individual seller? Is there any threshold dollar amount of sale which will trigger ''business'' registration requirement in California?

Your prompt reply and any advise will be greatly appreciated.

Thank you.


Asked on 7/31/03, 1:11 pm

3 Answers from Attorneys

Timothy J. Walton Internet Attorney

Re: Threshold requirement for business registration or permit

Rules regarding registration of businesses vary by city.

Are you reselling consumer items or ar you just getting rid of your own personal effects?

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Answered on 7/31/03, 2:19 pm
Roy Hoffman Law Offices of Roy A. Hoffman

Re: Threshold requirement for business registration or permit

It depends on whether you are going to be engaged in selling "personal goods" on an on-going basis, or whether you simply are selling some personal property on a one-time basis to dispose of it. If you are going to "egage in business" (which generally means selling goods to the general public on a continuing basis), then you will need to obtain at least a business license. If you are simply disposing of some property on a one-time basis, you probably do not need to obtain anything to do so.

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Answered on 7/31/03, 2:22 pm
Dieter Zacher Law Offices of Dieter Zacher

Re: Threshold requirement for business registration or permit

No, as long as your just selling your personal items. But, if you are going to engage in business practices, then, a business license should be obtained. You can get one through your local city government. Thanks for inquiring.

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Answered on 7/31/03, 4:42 pm


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