Home Furnishings & Thermal Insulation – Applicants
Applications
Frequently Asked Questions
I operate an online retail business based outside California. Am I required to register with the Bureau as a Furniture and/or Bedding Retailer?
Yes. Businesses located outside California must still obtain a license from the Bureau if they sell furniture or bedding to California consumers (BPC §19060.5).
Who needs to register with BHGS as a Thermal Insulation Manufacturer?
Thermal insulation manufacturers doing business in California (manufacturing and/or selling insulation) must hold a current thermal insulation manufacturing license.
Please note that this law is not intended to exclude out-of-state businesses from accessing the California market nor does it place additional burdens or demands beyond those required of in-state business.
How much is the license fee?
License fees depend on your license type.
| License Type | License Fee Per Location |
|---|---|
| Bedding Retailer (H) | $140 |
| Custom Upholsterer (B) | $420 |
| Furniture & Bedding Manufacturer (MFG) | $750 |
| Furniture & Bedding Wholesaler (WHL) | $750 |
| Furniture & Bedding Importer (IMP) | $750 |
| Furniture & Bedding Retailer (M) | $280 |
| Furniture Retailer (A) | $140 |
| Sanitizer (L) | $420 |
| Supply Dealer (E) | $625 |
| Thermal Insulation Manufacturer (T) | $2,000* |
*License fee applies to all locations producing the same generic type of insulation, not to exceed $8,000.
Are there exam or education requirements for a license?
No.
What is a registry number?
Registry numbers are issued to identify the location where a product was manufactured. The number identifies the state issuing the registry number, the unique number, and the country or state where the manufacturer is located. For more information refer to the Registry Number Flyer.
Who needs to obtain a registry number?
Every manufacturing plant must have a valid registry number prior to selling or distributing products to consumers in California.
Can registry numbers be shared between businesses?
No, registry numbers are assigned exclusively to the company they're issued to and may not be used by any other entity. Unauthorized use of a registry number is a legal violation and may result in disciplinary action.
Do I need to apply for a separate sanitizer license to clean and sell used bedding?
No, a separate sanitizer license is not required if you currently hold one of the following licenses:
- Manufacturer
- Bedding Retailer
- Furniture and Bedding Retailer
- Custom Upholsterer
Can I include more than one Doing Business As (DBA) on a single license?
No. Each license issued by BHGS must be tied to a single business entity and one DBA name. If you operate under multiple DBAs, a separate license is required for each. Licenses must reflect the DBA name that is publicly displayed and associated with the business.
How can I set up a chain for my business with seven or more locations?
Businesses that operate seven locations or more can request to have their licenses managed as a chain, under a single licensing structure. As a chain, each location is subject to its own license fee and shares the same license expiration date. All official documents, including renewal notices, invoices, license certificates and correspondence, are emailed/mailed to a single contact and designated mailing address.
To initiate the chain licensing process, please contact BHGS at (916) 999-2041, option 2.