If your business will operate under any name other than that of the owner, you must file a Fictitious Business Name form and publicize the fictitious name within 40 days after starting business. To avoid confusion, you should file the form before your business opens. After you file the form, publish the statement in a local newspaper once a week for four weeks. The newspaper will send proof of publication to the County Clerk. Contact Kern County Clerk’s Desk for more information: Ann K. Barnett - County Clerk 1115 Truxtun Avenue Bakersfield, CA 93301-4639 Phone: 661-868-3588