Business License Applications, Forms, and Resources


Prior to commencing business within the City, every person or entity engaging in business, regardless of whether the business is subject to taxation or not, must apply, pay all applicable taxes, fees, assessments and obtain the appropriate approvals in order to procure a business license and any other regulatory permits. Upon City approval of the business license application and applicable regulatory permits, the Business License unit will issue a business license certificate. 

These are the most frequently requested business license and regulatory permit applications, forms, information and resources.  You can complete some forms online, while you can download and print all others. 


Business License Information

The quickest way to apply for a Santa Monica business license is online. However, the following links have more information on the following business types. 

Permit Applications

The City of Santa Monica imposes regulatory restrictions on certain business activities to address public safety and to benefit the public welfare and requires businesses to obtain a police or other regulatory permit in conjunction with its business license. The permits listed below are required by the business activities indicated:

* If you are applying for a Santa Monica business license online, you may be required to complete and upload additional forms to your application. Please select each of the permit applications above that relate to your business activity.

Additional/Supplemental Forms

* If you are applying for a Santa Monica business license online, you may be required to complete and upload additional forms to your application. Please select each of the forms above that relate to your business location and/or activity.

Useful Information & Resources