Starting a Business in the City of Cerritos
Interested in opening a business in the City of Cerritos? Below you will find information to assist you as you begin the process of starting a business in Cerritos.
Find a Potential Business Location
First, you will want to find a location in Cerritos where your proposed business is permitted to operate by checking the zoning of the property. You can do this by using the City’s online GIS zoning map or by locating your property on the City’s printable zoning map. A list of permitted business uses within each zone is available in the Cerritos Municipal Code.
Apply for a Business License
Once you have identified a location in the City where your business is permitted to operate, submit a business license application online. For a business proposed in a commercial or industrial zone in the City, you will need to provide various supporting documents such as a Statement of Use letter, site plan, floor plan, property owner approval, applicant agreement, County of Los Angeles Fire Department intended use statement, owner's government-issued ID card, and if applicable, your Seller’s Permit.
If your business proposed in a residential area, you will need your Seller’s Permit, if applicable, a Statement of Use letter, applicant agreement, and property owner approval to apply.
Apply for Permits
Once your business license application is approved and paid for, you may now submit an application for any required building permits for any tenant improvements you may want to do. If you would like to change your building sign, you will need to apply for a sign permit, and approval of a “Grand Opening” or other banner will require a temporary sign permit. If you are not sure which permits you need, the Application Assistant will help you determine the correct permit applications you will need to complete.