How to Obtain a Pedicab Operator Permit

Welcome to the comprehensive guide for pedicab operators in Santa Monica seeking to apply for a permit to operate their non-electric pedicabs on the beach bike path. This step-by-step process explainer will provide you with the necessary information and instructions to ensure a smooth and successful application experience, allowing you to embark on your pedicab business venture in Santa Monica.

In order to ensure the seamless transition into full and compliant operations, please review the following information before starting your application:

For information related to Business License requirements please visit the City's Business License unit. Please submit Pedicab questions or concerns to (866) 311-7266, 311@santamonica.gov or using the online 311 System.

Beach Bike Path-Decal (2025 - 2026)

The City of Santa Monica will issue decal permits for licensed pedicab operators in good standing to operate non-electric pedicabs on the Beach Bike-Path for permit year 2025-26. A fee of $19.74 will be invoiced to cover cost which must be paid prior to receiving the Beach Bike-Permit decal. Instructions will be emailed to qualified operators.

Applicants must first obtain a business license from the City of Santa Monica prior to receiving decals. Incomplete applications will not be eligible for this year’s Beach Bike Path Program. Once the City of Santa Monica's Finance team confirms all preliminary documents have been submitted and fees have been paid, Transportation Planning will reach out to you regarding the inspection and other applicable documents.

Important Dates:

Please note: Due to the timeline of the permit process, there will be a grace period from FY 24-25.

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Continue the Process:

  1. Business License Application/Renewal

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    A valid business license is required to enter the lottery. Contact the City’s Business License unit to provide a complete a business license renewal submission or new application for new operators. In person appointments can be made using our online booking system.

    A valid business license application/renewal submission will require the following elements:

    • Application/Renewal Form
    • Pedicab Vehicle Form
    • Proof of Insurance in a minimum amount of one million dollars ($1,000,000.00) general liability insurance coverage and an additional five hundred thousand dollars ($500,000.00) general umbrella insurance that covers the pedicabs. Click Here for insurance requirements.

    Incomplete submissions will disqualify pedicab operators from Beach Bike Path eligibility.

  2. Schedule Pedicab Inspection

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    Once the pedicab operator submits a complete application to the Business Licenses unit please email transportation.planning@santamonica.gov with "Pedicab Inspection Request" in the subject line. Location and time slot will be provided via email.

  3. Pedicab Inspection

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    Prepare your all motorized and non-motorized pedicab vehicle(s) to meet the requirements outlined in the Pedicab Rules. Have the serial number, model, and make information readily available. Each vehicle must have dedicated equipment that cannot be shared among the fleet.

    NEW 2025 - Operators shall start filling out the Pedicab Driver form at this stage. Badges will be issued on the same day as the lottery to qualified drivers.

  4. Submit Beach Bike Path Application

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    Only non-motorized pedicab vehicles that have passed inspection for FY 25-26 may qualify for the Lottery. Application must be submitted to Transportation Planning either in person or via email at transportation.planning@santamonica.gov with "Lottery Application" in the subject line.

    Pedicab Lottery Application

  5. Lottery Selection

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    Operators/Vehicles selected for the Beach Bike Path Program will be notified via email provided on the Application.

    Pedicab operators granted Beach Bike Path decals will incur a fee per vehicle to cover the cost of the decal. Click Here to provide payment.

    Payment must be provided prior to 4PM on Wednesday, August 6th to secure the decal.