Get started

This page will help you understand the steps to opening a cleaning business in San Francisco. It is a resource from the Office of Small Business, San Francisco's central point of information for small businesses.

Set up your business

Set up your business

Cleaning services

Cleaning services
  • Adopt workplace safety measures that comply with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requirements for the cleaning industry. These include providing a workplace free of hazards, training employees to do their jobs safely, notifying government administrators about serious workplace accidents, and keeping detailed safety records.
  • Register with the California Labor Commissioner's Office and provide employees with sexual harassment prevention training once every two years
  • Dispose of hazardous materials properly. You can dispose of up to 220 pounds or 27 gallons of hazardous waste using the City’s drop off program at SF Recycling and Disposal Inc. Call (415) 330–1425 for an appointment.
  • Consider obtaining insurance to cover accidents. In a cleaning business, you will be performing various types of physical activity and operating in other people’s offices or homes. As a result, it is more likely for injuries and property damage to occur.
  • Note: The SF Department of the Environment offers a green cleaning pilot program that certifies local cleaning businesses as Green Businesses. To learn more, call (415) 355 3700 or visit https://sfenvironment.org/green-businesses

After opening

After opening
  • Solicit work. There are a number of ways to seek out work, including using the web, word-of-mouth, advertising, and partnerships. 
    • Note: Ask for references from existing customers.  Word-of-mouth can be the most effective way to gain new customers.
  • Negotiate compensation & payment plan prior to signing a contract. Consider taking a class or seeking other advice on contracts. 
  • Prepare and pay your local, state, and federal taxes. Learn more from these departments: