August 19, 2025 — To streamline the establishment of new businesses in the city, Benicia City Council has approved amendments to a range of commercial regulations, updating and clarifying certain land use regulations, classifications and definitions and establishing consistency citywide.

Businesses affected by the amended regulations include:

day care centers
home-based businesses
formula businesses
studios
body art and piercing, alcoholic beverage sales
bars, taverns
nightclubs
alcoholic beverage sales
food take-out services
live entertainment
mobile food vending
health and fitness facilities
commercial recreation facilities
sports and entertainment assembly

The amendments, going into effect Sept. 18, 2025, encompass a range of requirements including permitting and permitted uses, business locations, and parking. For a more detailed description of changes specific to each type of business, read here (PDF).

This action supports implementation of Benicia’s Resiliency Plan, Goal 3: Expand Economic Development, by streamlining new business review and facilitating economic growth.