Resources | Downtown Orinda

Starting a business in Orinda is a straightforward and simple process, built to assist entrepreneurs in our welcoming community. Whether opening a boutique in the Theater District or running a remote company, the City of Orinda makes it easy to get started. All businesses operating in Orinda are required to complete the business registration process through the online portal. Distinct from a traditional business license, this method formalizes your operations, ensuring compliance with local ordinances. Current business owners are able to use this same process to renew their registration.

Prospective business owners should consult with the Planning Department to verify any intended uses for property are aligned with local zoning, particularly if leasing a storefront or modifying a pre-existing space. For construction and remodeling work, permits are handled at the county level, managing inspections and code compliance for Orinda. Home-based businesses only need to meet residential standards and apply for a Home Occupation Permit.
From there, prospective employers need to secure any applicable state and/or federal documents — such as a Fictitious Business Name (DBA), a seller’s permit and an EIN from the IRS — based on business type. Food-related businesses will work through the Contra Costa Environmental Health permit portal for safety and kitchen compliance, while those establishments serving alcohol must coordinate licensing through the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control and any City regulations and zoning.
To help get you started, the Orinda Chamber of Commerce offers ribbon cuttings, marketing exposure and networking with fellow local businesses. If you’re unsure about what permits you may need, California’s CalGold online tool is a great place to look up customized regulatory requirements based on your location and industry.
From first-time entrepreneurs to seasoned operators, Orinda offers the resources and community support that make doing business here not only feasible, but rewarding.

Property & Address	Use	Available Size	Rate or Price	Verified Link
Orinda Theatre Square (2 Theatre Square)	Retail	~16,200 ft²	~$52 / ft² / year	View Listing
Pine Grove Business Center (4 Orinda Way)	Office	~23,500 ft²	~$51 / ft² / year	View Listing
One Camino Sobrante	Office	~503–3,122 ft²	$3.75 / ft² / mo ($45 / ft² / year)	View Listing
Orinda Towers (89 Davis Rd)	Office	~4,176 ft²	Contact for pricing	View Listing
8 Camino Encinas	Office	~1,250 ft²	Contact for pricing	View Listing
1 Bates Blvd	Office/Medical	~431–2,600 ft²	$2.25 / ft² / mo ($27 / ft² / year)	View Listing
19 Orinda Way	Retail/Office	~769 ft²	~$21 / ft² / year	View Listing
23 Orinda Way	Retail	~880–4,720 ft²	~$38–39 / ft² / year	View Listing
104–122 Camino Pablo	Office	~1,500 ft²	~$37.20 / ft² / year	View Listing
25 Orinda Way (The Station)	Retail / Food Hall	~200–3,400 ft²	Contact for pricing	View Listing
1 Wilder Rd (Commercial Land)	Land	~1.17 acres	~$4,000,000	View Listing
89 Davis Rd (Medical Building)	Medical Office	~16,355 ft²	~$7,800,000	View Listing
8 Camino Encinas (Office Building)	Office	~8,700 ft²	Price upon request	View Listing

Partnerships and Contacts

Community Partners	Nature of Collaboration
Orinda Chamber of Commerce	Joint support for events and business outreach; offers networking mixers, promotions, and themed events supporting commerce
Orinda Community Foundation	Co-sponsorship of annual award ceremonies, parades, and service days
Nonprofits (including The Orinda Association and Rotary Club of Orinda)	Shared delivery of volunteer and community service programs
Orinda Union School District	Business and civic leaders overlap with schools for local events and community engagement