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1. Can I put up a sign on telephone poles?

Attaching signs to telephone poles is prohibited.

2. Do I need a permit for a new swimming pool?

Yes, a permit is required for construction of a new swimming pool.

Phone: 559-585-2580 / permithelp@cityofhanfordca.com

To apply for a permit, please submit via the Citizen Self Service Portal.

3. I am building/remodeling a house. What departments do I talk to?

Please contact the Building Division.

559-585-2580 / permithelp@cityofhanfordca.com 

Please apply for building permits via the Citizen Self Service Portal.

4. What do I need to start a business?

Depending on the type of business, location of the business, and former use of the building used for the business, various applications and permits may be required.

To understand the full list of requirements, please contact the Planning Division at (559) 585-2580 with the following information:

1. Location of the proposed business – Address or APN required

1. Will the business be conducted from a residence?
2. Will the business be conducted from a storefront?

2. Type of Business Proposed

Zoning will determine the uses allowed within the zone district.

The zoning map can be found here.

Land uses are permitted, as shown in the Land Use Table.

A site plan review may be required whenever there is a change in the occupancy of the building, determined by the former legal use. (i.e. Office to Restaurant; Retail to Office). Additionally a conditional use permit may be required, if the use is shown as a C in the Land Use Table.

If operating a home-based business, a Home Occupation Permit is required.

Home-based businesses and storefronts both require a Business License.

To apply for a home occupation permit and/or business license, please submit via the Citizen Self Service Portal.

5. Where do I get information about construction permits?

For further information about a construction/building permit please visit the Building Division web page or call the Building Division.

Phone: 559-585-2580 / permithelp@cityofhanfordca.com 

To apply for permits, please submit via the Citizen Self Service Portal.

6. Do I need a permit to sell flowers on the sidewalk or street?

Yes. In the City of Hanford, it is unlawful for a vendor to sell or display any food or merchandise without first obtaining a vendor permit and a business license. In addition, there are conditions that regulate the use of public right-of-way by peddlers and vendors that are related to objective health, safety, or welfare concerns. Failure to comply with governing codes may result in receiving an administrative or criminal citation, and the possibly of the goods and merchandise being confiscated.

7. Do I need a license for a home-based business?

Anyone conducting business in the city limits of Hanford is required to obtain a business license regardless of location.

If conducting a home-based business, a Home Occupation permit is required.

Hanford Municipal Code 17.78.050 Operating standards for Home Occupations 

To apply for a home occupation permit, please submit via the Citizen Self Service Portal.

8. Where do I get or renew my taxi license?

Please contact the Finance Department at 559-585-2512 You can apply for a Taxi or Bus permit via the Citizen Self Service Portal.

9. What do I need to build an ADU (Additional Dwelling Unit)?

Accessory Dwelling Units are permitted by State Law. Find out more here.

An accessory dwelling unit requires an Administrative Approval and Site Plan Review Application (both of which are ministerial). To apply for a site plan review and administrative approval, please submit via the Citizen Self Service Portal.

10. How much does a business license or permit cost?

As of January 1, 2022, all business licenses are issued on an annual basis, (January-December). The license fee for your first year of business will be the minimum payment. For a retail-based business the fee is $20 (or $40 if the business is located in the improvement district). If your business is a sub-contractor - $40, General Contractor - $60, if professional or other set rate business we can determine the fee for you when you sign up for your business license. The payment due date is January 31st. For Gross Receipt category licenses, fees are based upon the previous annual gross receipts. A $100 late fee will be applied after the January 31 due date, but will be reduced to $50 if paid within five business days. See Master Fee Schedule for a complete list of fees.

New Business License Application Processing Fee - $40

Administrative Fee for Renewals - $10

11. Can I get a sign for my business?

For information regarding signs, please contact our Planning Department at 559-585-4768.

A sign permit will be required from the Planning Division and the Building Division.

To apply for sign permits (Planning and Building) please submit via the Citizen Self Service Portal.

Hanford Municipal Code Chapter 17.56 SIGNS AND OUTDOOR ADVERTISING STRUCTURES