Business License Modernization Project

Over the next year, the City of Santa Monica is embarking on modernizing the Business License Program.  This page will provide access to information regarding the City’s modernization efforts.

Santa Monica’s Business License Tax (BLT) structure was last updated in 1990 and can be found in the City’s municipal code:  Article 6 Business, Professions and Trades

A lot has changed over the past 30+ years. Updating the BLT code will improve fairness and efficiency for Santa Monica businesses.  Today, there are new types of businesses that didn’t exist when the Business License code was last updated, and new ways of working, particularly remote and “gig” work.   We know our small, local businesses suffered challenging impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic and related economic downturn.  The City wants to ensure that the Business License program works for all sizes of businesses in Santa Monica.

Project Updates

Recently, the City has initiated a review of the existing business license code with the goal of developing an updated set of regulations that is fair and equitable, reflective of today’s economy and easy to understand and administer.

A modernized business license program code will also help:

·         Attract, retain, and encourage expansion of businesses.

·         Incentivize and support job creation, and equitable and inclusive growth.

·         Make oversight and compliance less burdensome.

Over the course of the upcoming months, City staff and a team of consultants from BakerTilly and HdL, will be reviewing the existing BLT structure and engaging with the local business community to obtain input into the modernization effort.  This engagement will include surveys involving current business license holders (anticipated in November) and focus group meetings with various business operators. 

The City recognizes that any change to the existing BLT structure will have some impact on the business community.  As part of the process, the City of Santa Monica is committed to sharing information and keeping the business community and stakeholders informed.  While additional information will be provided on this site as it becomes available, questions, comments or concerns can be emailed directly to: Blmodernization@santamonica.gov.

Want to Get Involved?

Please complete this form if you are interested in learning more, providing feedback, or receiving project updates.