City of Cerritos Business License

City business licenses are required for any entity operating a business within the City of Cerritos, service providers offering a service in the City, and contractors performing work in the City. The following City of Cerritos business license services are available online:

Types of City Business Licenses

Businesses in Commercial/Industrial Zones
For businesses located in a commercial/industrial zone in the City (City-Based/In-Town Business License), you will need to provide the following supporting documents as part of your City Commercial Business License application:

Businesses in Residential Zones

For business located in a residential zone in the City (Home Occupation Business License), you will need to provide the following supporting documents as part of your City Home Occupation Business License Application:

Contractors

You will need the following documents to apply for a City Contractor Business License:
  • A copy of your Contractor State License Pocket Card
  • If you are applying as an agent on behalf of the owner or licensed contractor, you will need to subimt a notorized Letter of Authorization.
  • California Seller's Permit, if doing sales in Cerritos
  • If applicable, proof of non-profit status, such as a letter of exemption from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) or 501(c)(3) form.

Out-Of-Town Service Providers

If you are a service provider that offers a service in the City of Cerritos but are based outside of Cerritos, you will need to apply for a City Out-Of-Town Business License. Service providers include but are limited to: gardeners, handymen, janitorial or maid services, pool maintenance, real estate broker, private patrol, parking valet, trash/disposal service, ambulatory services, bus services, catering services, delivery services, taxi cab services, and tow services. You will need the following documents to apply for a City Contractor Business License:
  • California Seller's Permit, if doing sales in Cerritos
  • If applicable, proof of non-profit status, such as a letter of exemption from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) or 501(c)(3) form.

Apply for a City Business License

Once you have determined the type of City business license to apply for, please click "Apply Here" to apply for a City business license. You will first be directed to create a portal account. Once your portal account has been created, click "Submit an Application" to apply for a new business license. Follow the instructions and ensue you have all required supplemental documentation.

Click here to register for an account and apply for a new City business license

Click here to check application status

Renew your Business License

Business license renewals can be completed online.

Pay Business License Fees

Business license fees can be paid online.