GETTING CERTIFIED
As outlined in the sidebar, certification applications must have their business headquartered in San Francisco or within the PUC Water System Service area, have had a business license for at least six months, and meet gross receipts thresholds. Required documents also include company structure and ownership details, tax returns, lease agreements, and invoices showing contractor experience. 1
The Benefits of Becoming Certified
Becoming a certified LBE in the City and County of San Francisco offers advantages that help small local firms compete more effectively for city contracts and gain access to more opportunities.
When bidding on city contracts, LBE-certified businesses often receive a bid discount or rating bonus, which improves their competitiveness. For instance, with certain
LBE Certification Eligibility Requirements:
▪ Location: Your business must show proof that it has a fixed location in San Francisco or the eligible PUC Water System Service area. You will need to submit an office / warehouse lease contract and proof of rent payments( or property tax bills if you own the property).
▪ Business License: You must have and provide a copy of a current business license, issued at least six months before applying for certification.
▪ Company Information: You will need to show documentation of your business type such as LLC, corporation, partnership, etc., proof of your federal employer ID number( FEIN), a list of owners or board members, employee payroll documents, and examples of goods and services provided.
▪ Gross Receipts: Your business must fall within specific gross receipts thresholds set by the program.
▪ Proof of Experience: You will need to provide invoices or signed contracts to demonstrate your ability to provide the goods or services for which you are seeking certification.
▪ Tax Records: Business and personal tax returns including federal tax returns for the business and its owners for the past five years.
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