California note
Ceres keeps many permit and license links in one center
Ceres has a handy permit and license center for the ordinary local questions that otherwise send people searching all over the site. It covers building permits, encroachments, stormwater, planning, block parties, parades, garage sales, and business licenses.
For a business inside city limits, a Ceres business license is required. New applications and renewals are handled online through the city’s business license system.
For building work, Ceres treats most work to a structure as permit work unless it is only cosmetic. The city issues permits, while inspection scheduling uses the Stanislaus County 24-hour inspection line.
Start by naming the task: business, building, street or sidewalk work, planning, event, or stormwater. Then gather the address, business activity if any, project description, contractor information, and photos or sketches. That helps keep a garage sale, parade, tenant improvement, and remodel from landing in the same pile.
Where to see it
Ceres Permit and License Center, Business Licenses, Building Permits, and Building Division pages.
Official sources
Official pages
Reviewed July 4, 2026
Current rules, forms, fees, deadlines, maps, and office instructions.
Rules, forms, fees, deadlines, and office procedures can change. Check the current page before you file, pay, or rely on a date.
Connected places
Open the local directory
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