← Frequently Asked Questions

How do I obtain a business license?

Permitting Process & Requirements
Title 4

Business licenses can be obtained through the City's Business Tax Registration page.

Follow the four steps below:

Step 1: Collect Your Paperwork

Gather and prepare these items to make your application process easy:

  • Federal Tax ID number (for Corporations, LLCs, partnerships, others with a FEIN)

  • Social Security number (for sole proprietors)

  • Driver's License number for primary contacts

  • Sellers Permit showing an address in El Segundo (required for retail or wholesale businesses)

  • Professional license number - County, State or Federal

  • Construction Job location and job valuation (contractors and some outside services)

  • 501(c)(3) determination letter - for nonprofit or charitable organizations

  • Documentation of tax-exemption

  • Visa, MasterCard, American Express Credit or e-check information

  • A detailed and complete description of your business activity

  • Be sure to provide sufficient detail about your business to help us assess your application.

Step 2: Choose and Complete the Right Application

Contractors – Contractors licensed with the Contractors State License Board.

In-City – Businesses based within the City of El Segundo, including home based.

Outside City – Businesses working in The City of El Segundo but based elsewhere. (Don’t use this form if you are a General Contractor or Sub-Contractor.)

Property Rental & Lease – Property Owners of commercial or industrial locations, residential and apartment rentals.

Step 3: Check Your Email

Once your application is completed, we’ll send you a confirmation email to let you know that it is under review. When processing is completed, we’ll send a second email to notify you or request additional information to complete your application. Your confirmation email will include a link with temporary credentials so you can check your application status. If you have any questions, please contact the Revenue Division.

Please note: it may take up to 10 business days to process your application.

Step 4: Pay Your Business Registration Fee