How to Apply for a Contractor Business License
If you are a general building contractor or specialty/sub-contractor, as defined in SMMC 6.08.060 or 6.08.070, and you are conducting business in Santa Monica, you will need to apply for a business license as general or sub-contractor.
For additional information regarding operating as a general or sub-contractor in Santa Monica, please see the links below:
- How to apply for a Building Permit
- How do I get a Final on a Building Permit?
- How clear the business license condition on my building permit?
Email the Contractor Requirements Form to business.license@santamonica.gov
Continue the Process:
Online
-
Gather your Information and Apply
+ -To complete the online application linked below you will need your business information and California State Contractor's License number. If you do not have your CSLB card, you may search their website HERE for that information.
-
Submit Application
+ -Gather your information, and complete the online submission using the system HERE.
-
Submit Payment
+ -Once the application is processed by the Business License unit, you will receive an email with instructions on how to pay the applicable taxes and fees.
When the Business License unit deems the application is complete and payment is received, the application will be routed to the appropriate City departments for review. If the appropriate approvals are received, a business license certificate will be issued. If your submission is not compliant with local, county or state regulations, then your business license will be denied.
-
Gather your Documents and Apply
+ -Fill out the Out-of-City Business License Application. Include a copy of your California State Contractor's License, which can be found HERE.
-
Submit Application
+ -Email the completed Application and any required supplemental documentation to:
-
Submit Payment
+ -Once the application is processed by the Business License unit, you will receive an email with instructions on how to pay the applicable taxes and fees.
When the Business License unit deems the application is complete and payment is received, the application will be routed to the appropriate City departments for review. If the appropriate approvals are received, a business license certificate will be issued. If your submission is not compliant with local, county or state regulations, then your business license will be denied.
-
Gather your Documents and Apply
+ -Fill out the Out-of-City Business License Application. Include a copy of your California State Contractor's License, which can be found HERE.
-
Submit Application
+ -Mail the completed application to:
City of Santa Monica
Business License Unit
P.O. Box 2200
Santa Monica, CA 90407-2200
-
Submit Payment
+ -Once the application is processed by the Business License unit, you will receive an email with instructions on how to pay the applicable taxes and fees.
When the Business License unit deems the application is complete and payment is received, the application will be routed to the appropriate City departments for review. If the appropriate approvals are received, a business license certificate will be issued. If your submission is not compliant with local, county or state regulations, then your business license will be denied.
In-Person
-
Gather your Documents and Apply
+ -Fill out the Out-of-City Business License Application. Include a copy of your California State Contractor's License, which can be found HERE.
-
Submit Application
+ -Applications can be accepted in person by appointment. Click HERE to make an appointment. Bring your completed application and supplemental documentation to the Business License office located at:
City of Santa Monica
City Hall East
1685 Main Street
Santa Monica, CA 90401
-
Submit Payment
+ -Once the application is processed by the Business License unit, you will receive an email with instructions on how to pay the applicable taxes and fees.
When the Business License unit deems the application is complete and payment is received, the application will be routed to the appropriate City departments for review. If the appropriate approvals are received, a business license certificate will be issued. If your submission is not compliant with local, county or state regulations, then your business license will be denied.