Start a Business in Los Angeles

Permits, costs, timeline, and step-by-step requirements.

✔ 4 permits⏱ 3-8 weeks💰 $50–$200

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Overview

Starting a business in Los Angeles requires a Business Tax Registration Certificate through the Office of Finance. Base fee: $50–$200. No state business license required. Cities handle licensing independently.

Required Permits

✓Federal: EIN from IRS (free, instant online)
✓State: LLC/Corp filing + seller's permit/sales tax registration
✓County: health department permit + fire inspection
✓City: business licence/tax certificate

Step-by-Step Process

1

Federal: EIN from IRS (free, instant online)

2

State: LLC/Corp filing + seller's permit/sales tax registration

3

County: health department permit + fire inspection

4

City: business licence/tax certificate

Costs

Estimated total: $50–$200 depending on permits and inspections.

General Business$50–$200
Restaurant$200–$1,500+

County Health Department

Department of Public Health (Los Angeles County)

(213) 974-2011

http://publichealth.lacounty.gov

Contact

Office of Finance

Phone: 213-473-5901

200 N Spring St, Room 101, Los Angeles, CA 90012

Apply Online →

Common Mistakes

⚠ Business Tax Registration Certificate (BTRC) required for ALL businesses
⚠ Tax is classification-driven — activity determines the rate
⚠ Small Business Exemption if gross receipts under $100,000 and renewed on time
⚠ First year taxes paid in second year as BACK TAX
⚠ May need Police, Fire, and/or Tobacco permits depending on business
⚠ LADBS handles building permits separately

Choose Your Business Type

RestaurantFood TruckBarber ShopRetail StoreCoffee ShopBar / NightclubGym / Fitness StudioNail SalonCannabis DispensaryDog GroomingBakeryCleaning ServiceDaycare CenterAuto Repair Shop

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