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Business licenses & tax certificates

Check the local authority, requirements, applications, renewal, changes and public license searches for your business.

Check or apply for a business license Renew a business license Close or update a business license Look up a business license Register a business for stormwater compliance

Before you start

Start with where your business is located and where it will operate. A county license may apply only to unincorporated areas or specific activities; cities can have their own requirements.
Some county offices provide guidance or referrals and do not issue a general business license. Read the entry before choosing an application.
A business license or tax certificate, an FBN/DBA filing, business entity registration and a professional license serve different purposes. Zoning, health and other activity permits may also apply. Business stormwater registration is a separate local programme where required.
Check the license period, renewal date and rules for changes in ownership or location. A renewal may not cover a move or a new owner. Fees and application steps depend on the license category.

1 guide with reviewed service links · Reviewed local guides · “City of Los Angeles”

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City government · Los Angeles

Los Angeles — Office of Finance — business tax certificates

City of Los Angeles business licensing or tax certificates.

The city refers registration and business-tax payment or renewal to its Office of Finance. Follow the official Finance site for the applicable procedure.

Service area: City of Los Angeles business activity; city programme, not county-wide licensing. Area details & sources

Source checked October 16, 2026

Los Angeles municipal government · Los Angeles — business licensing discovery (opens in a new tab)

Reviewed business licensing instructions

Register your business and get a Business Tax Certificate. You can also pay and renew business taxes and permits.

Saved evidence: 22d1de820ece2247 · Agent source review

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