The City of South Pasadena welcomes you to its business community. Starting a business can be exciting and challenging. We wish you great success in your new venture!

The City of South Pasadena requires all businesses operating within the City limits to obtain a business license and pay business license tax prior to commencing business operations.

If you need further assistance applying for a business license, you are welcome to contact us at SouthPasadena@hdlgov.com or by phone at (626) 403-7258. Phone support is available Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm (PST).

BUSINESS LICENSE DIRECTORY: Business License Verification Search

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Download Forms

Please download below

Business License Application .pdf   file_download

Please download below

Home Occupancy Permit .pdf   file_download

Please download below

Commercial Business Clearance Packet .pdf   file_download

Please download below

Business License Fees .pdf   file_download
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Frequently Asked Questions

An application must be submitted, and fees must be paid prior to commencement of business operations.

A variety of classifications and rates are set forth in the Business License Ordinance. A brief rate schedule of the most common classifications is available above, listed as Business License Fees.

Most business licenses are valid for one year and must be renewed annually. For annual business licenses, a renewal notice will be mailed to you the month prior to your license expiring.

It is unlawful for any person to transact and carry on any business without first having procured a license.

Failure to comply with the ordinance may subject the violator to penalties and possible civil or criminal action.

Your Business License is valid only within the city limits of South Pasadena - while doing business from your commercial/professional location, your residence, or when you are providing services to a resident or business within the city limits.

  • If you are doing work in South Pasadena but your business is not physically located here, a business license application is all you are required to fill out.
  • If you live in South Pasadena and use your home as an office or as the headquarters for your business, you will need to complete the business license application and home occupancy permit.
  • If your business is physically located in South Pasadena at a location other than your home, you will need to complete a business license application and commercial business clearance packet.

Business Licenses are not transferable from one owner to another. The new owner must submit a new application.