Doing Business In Orange County

Thinking of doing business in Orange County? Hustler’s Library has gathered all the best local resources for business entrepreneurs.

Arriving in OC:
Airport Tips for Business Travelers

Whether you’re flying private, traveling business class, or taking economy; Orange Country has accessible options to get in an out of town:

John Wayne (JWA)

John Wayne airport in Santa Ana is the most accessible airport in Orange County. This is the airport of choice for most business travel in and out of OC.

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Los Angeles International (LAX)

LAX is the largest regional international airport, offering the widest range of domestic and global nonstop routes. Usually has the best International business flight fares around.

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Long Beach Airport (LGB)

Long Beach Airport offers a calm, efficient experience with limited flight volume and quick exits. Best for domestic travel and meetings in Long Beach, or getting to Orange County.

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Orange County Compliance

Cities in Orange county are serious about compliance. The first step to starting a business in OC is making sure that you have the necessary licenses and permits to do business. From there, its off to the races!

Register Your Business

A great first step is to officially register your business with the state of California. Whether you’re launching a startup, independent contracting, or building a full brick-and-mortar shop; you’ll need to file the necessary paperwork with the California Secretary of State. For businesses operating under a name different from your legal name (DBA). 

Get Your City Licenses & Permits

Depending on your industry and business activities, you might need specific licenses or permits to operate legally in the cities across Orange County. Make sure you’re up to code by checking with the relevant Business Licensing Department.

Stay in the Know

Keep an eye out for the latest updates and requirements by saving relevant government websites and subscribing to newsletters. Staying compliant isn’t just good business sense; it’s the key to keeping your hustle thriving in this dynamic city. Finding a quality Orange County business lawyer can also increase ease of maintaining compliance.

Orange County Business Resources

Orange County has a wide variety of local resources dedicated to business owners and entrepreneurs. 

Orange County Credit Unions & Local Banks

Our team has done our research and found top local banks and credit unions for business owners & entrepreneurs. See what options are available and how they could potentially improve your operations.

Opportunity Zones in Orange County

Opportunity zones bring unique value to business owners and entrepreneurs of all sizes. Each having their own unique aspects and potential advantages. See what opportunity zones are around Orange County and how they could possibly benefit your business. 

Business Acquisition Guides

Buying or selling a business in Orange County? Our team has info you need to help assist in a smoother transaction.

Networking In Orange County

In an area as elite as Orange County, high-value connections can be made anywhere. However, to meet like-minded people; you need to network with purpose. Hustler’s Library has put together the top events for entrepreneurs and business owners across the region.

January 4-6 2026

CES 2026

October 15-16 2025

The Business Show

August 7–10 2025

DEF CON

Need Business Funding In OC?

We know where to find it. 

Finding Funding in Orange County

In a high net-worth area like Orange County, it can sometimes seem like everyone has access to money. However, the reality is most business owners are struggling. Start looking for real funding to propel your business forward.

Where You Can Find Funding In Orange County:

Top Orange County Professionals

From legal support to digital marketing, find the OC experts your business needs to thrive.

Contracts, IP, and regulations? We’ve found some of Orange County’s best legal minds that will help keep your paperwork right.

Taxes and finances, handled. Work with startup-savvy CPAs to boost profits and stay stress-free.

We have the information you need from top commercial realtors to places you can find properties.

AI Consulting

Start understanding how Artificial Intelligence can help make your business more efficient and increase overall productivity.

Launch a stunning, user-friendly website that captures your brand and drives results. Wether you’re looking to build a site for OC locals or the world, we have you covered.

Grow your brand’s reach around Orange County and beyond with data-driven marketing, from SEO to social media. No more fluffed up stats, just real KPIs and results.

Local Picks for Hustlers

Curated spots to work, recharge, and connect—handpicked for busy entrepreneurs on the move.

Top Coffee Shops for Entrepreneurs in Orange County

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Best Hotels in Orange County [For Business]

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The Best Coworking Spaces in Orange County

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Navigating Orange County Permits & Regulations

Doing business in Orange County usually means you will be servicing multiple cities in the area. If you work in more than one municipality, make sure to remain compliant in each of them.

Business Certificate (DBA)

Required if you operate under a name different from your legal name. Sole proprietors file this through the Orange County Clerk’s Office.

Sales Tax Certificate of Authority

Needed for any business selling taxable goods or services. Register through the California Department of Tax & Fee Administration.

Food Service Establishment Permit

Businesses like active Restaurants, Food Markets, Apartment Buildings, Condominiums, Swimming Pools, Food Trucks, Camps, and Cannabis Facilities are all required to obtain and prominently display their health rating. Anyone handling or near food is going to need California Certified Food Handler Card

Mobile Vendor License

California classifies mobile vendors like food trucks as or Compact Mobile Food Operations aka CMFOs. Examples of CMFOs include pushcarts, pedal-driven carts, wagons, or other non-motorized conveyances.

Sidewalk Café License

If you want to set up outdoor seating, plan ahead—permits can take several months depending on your borough.

FDNY Certificate of Fitness

Needed for businesses with commercial cooking, fire extinguishers, chemicals, or compressed gas.