Starting a Business in Colma

Why Colma

The Town of Colma, known world-wide as the “City of Souls,” is a unique, diverse community of 1,509 residents located on the San Francisco peninsula. It is a regional destination known for its cemeteries, shopping centers and auto sales district. In spite of its urban setting between the cities of Daly City and South San Francisco, the Town maintains a “small town” feeling for its residents and many visitors.

Colma’s commercial buildings make a distinct architectural statement resulting from design standards that encourage Spanish- Mediterranean motifs. Colma boasts an old- world charm all its own, from its paving stone residential streets and ornamental street lamps to its historical museum and restored railroad depot located at its Historical Park and Community Center on Hillside Boulevard.

Within its two-square mile boundary, the Town enjoys a strong tax base, one of Northern California’s most complete collections of car dealerships, two shopping centers and a cardroom. There are two BART stations nearby. Colma is also easily accessed via Highway 280.

The Town has a modern city infrastructure with a professional staff who are easily accessible to residents and local businesses. A monthly newsletter is distributed from Town Hall with timely information about the City Council agenda, upcoming community events and special interest articles.

This small-town approach to modern, municipal government reflects a commitment to both a thriving business climate and a harmonious relationship with residents.

Where to Begin

Colma Specific Requirements

Before applying for a business license in Colma and opening your business, there are items that you may need to address:

Zoning requirements with the Town of Colma Planning Department
IRS Employer Number
DE-1 Form with the State Employment Development Department
Fictitious Business Name Statement from the County
Legal publication of Fictitious Business Name
Seller’s Permit—State Resale Number
State license (contractors)
State Workers’ Compensation Insurance coverage
Permit for selling food from the County Environmental Health Department
Building permit for any exterior or interior modifications from the Colma Building Division
Sign approval from the Colma Planning Department
Fire inspection from the Colma Fire Protection District

Resources

There are many online resources available which contain valuable information on starting a business. One of the best resources is the U.S. Small Administration: www.sba.gov

Below are lists of possible requirements and set-up costs that you may need to consider prior to opening your business:

Startup basics

Prepare a business plan
Get a business license
Obtain a sellers permit
File a fictitious business name
Draft a partnership agreement or incorporate with the Secretary of State
Open a checking account
Talk with an accountant about bookkeeping
Set up bookkeeping systems
Research insurance needs
Develop rate structure
Develop brochure, logo and/or website
Draft contracts needed for customers/private contractors
Print brochure, letterhead
Prepare employee training
Develop pay schedule
Develop billing procedure
File appropriate tax forms
Develop market research/advertising

Startup costs

Lawyer for partnership agreement/lease review
Filing fees—business license, permits, fictitious name
Design of logo or other graphics
Printing brochure, letterhead, flyers, etc
Development of website
Market research
Telephone system/answering machine
Utilities
Rent or purchase of a building
Insurance
Advertising
Board of Equalization bond
Laundry and cleaning
Directories for customer contact
File incorporation papers
Association dues
Fixtures/equipment/vehicles
Office supplies
Books and publications
Chamber of Commerce membership