New Business Licenses

The New Business Licensing Division is now accepting appointments for Over-the-Counter applications. Individuals who schedule an appointment through QLess will be able to visit the Community Development Department in-person to process new business applications and special events and special activity business permits. You may still submit your new business license application; special business permits to CDDLicenseandPermitCenter@cityofgardena.org to be processed digitally.

The Community Development Department reviews all new business license applications to ensure that the proposed use is consistent with the established zoning regulations and policies of Gardena.  Please check with the Planning Division at (310) 217-9524 prior to signing a lease or committing your business to a certain location to determine if your use is permitted in the zone, and what additional permits or documentation may be required prior to the issuance of a business license.

PLEASE READ THE INSTRUCTIONS PRIOR TO SCHEDULING AN APPOINTMENT TO AVOID RESCHEDULING. THE SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT LINK IS LOCATED AT THE BOTTOM OF THE PAGE. 

***Applications will not be processed without the required additional documents at the time of the appointment.***

Business License Applications and Instructions

Below are the following documents you will be required to provide with your completed application at the time of your appointment.

  • New Business License
    • Business License Application – may be completed by the owner or an authorized agent – proof of authorization shall be provided when filing the application.
    • Reason for application -indicate whether this is a new business, change of address for an existing business, change of ownership, DBA change or Other
    • Photo ID/DL – of the owner or one of the partners, managing member or officer of a LLC or corporation
    • Lease Agreement- with landlord signature (ONLY for businesses in the city)
    • Filed copy of Fictitious Business Name Statement -if business name is other than the owner’s name
    • Copy Sales or Use Tax/Seller Permit -if applicable to your business activity
    • Statement of Information-filed with the CA Secretary of State if business entity is a Limited Liability Company or Corporation
    • Partnership Agreement signed by all partners -if business is General Partnership
    • Copy of applicable occupational licenses form the State of CA  if business activity is regulated by the state of California,  a copy of a state license shall be required (real estate, cosmetology, doctor, lawyer, accountant, massage, etc.)
    • *If the business is located at a residential address within the city, then a Home Occupation Permit will be required.

Change of Ownership will need to apply for a new business license – See requirements listed above under New Business License within the city.

Change of business address within the city will need to apply for a new business license – See requirements listed above under New Business License within the city.

  • Out of city Contractor New Business License Application
    • Out of city License Contractor Application
    • CSLB State Pocket License and Photo ID/DL
    • If the applicant is an agent, a Notarized Letter of Authorization will be required.
    • Tax and Fee Rates for CA State Licensed Contractors
    • A – General Engineering Contractor   $150 (business tax) + $4 (SB1186Fee)
    • B – General Building Contractor $150 (business tax) + $4 (SB1186Fee)
    • C/D – Specialty Contractor $75 (business tax) + $$ (SB1186Fee)
    • *Business tax is prorated at 50% beginning July 1st until November 30th of each year

In-person appointments to obtain a new business license are open to the public on Monday through Thursday from 7:50 – 11:05 am. 

You may schedule an appointment OR email your application to CDDLicenseandpermitcenter@cityofgardena.org. Please ensure you have completed all sections of the application and sign and date where indicated.

FOR EMAIL SUBMITTALS, PLEASE EMAIL APPLICATION ONLY. DO NOT SEND ANY OTHER DOCUMENTS UNTIL REQUESTED.