California note
San Mateo County FBN filings start with ACRE
San Mateo County fictitious business name filings create a public business name record through ACRE, separate from business license and permit steps.
In San Mateo County, a DBA filing creates a public record for a business name. It helps when the name may not show the owner’s legal name.
ACRE handles the FBN filing. It can be part of starting a cafe, shop, online store, rental service, or small Peninsula side business.
The FBN is not the same as a business license. Cities handle many licenses inside city limits. The county handles licenses for county areas. A seller’s permit, health step, building review, or trade license may be separate.
The county process also has publication steps for new filings. Check those steps before you print signs, open a bank account, or run ads under the name.
Start with the exact name, owner details, business address, and mailing address.
Where to see it
San Mateo County ACRE fictitious business name pages.
Official sources
Official pages
Reviewed July 3, 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