Business Licenses
Updated October 3, 2023
The City of Cerritos takes pride in providing its businesses with the best services and financial options to make doing business in Cerritos inexpensive and hassle free. The California Association for Local Economic Development awarded the City a 2007 “Award of Merit” for its Business Retention and Expansion program. The Los Angeles County economic Development Corporation named the City a finalist for the “Most Business-Friendly City Award” in 2007 and 2008.
City business license services, including applying for a new business license, renewing your business license, and fee payment, can now be accessed through the City’s online portal at permits.cerritos.us.
For New Businesses
If you are opening a new business in Cerritos for the first time, please follow these instructions:
- Create a portal account at permits.cerritos.us.
- Click “Submit An Application” to apply for a new business license. Follow the instructions and ensure you have all required supplemental documentation.
Resubmit After Making Corrections
Upon submitting an application, you will be notified if corrections are required. To resubmit your application after making the required corrections, please follow the resubmittal instructions here (PDF).
Renewals
To renew your City business license, please follow the renewal instructions on your renewal notice. Renewal notices are mailed and emailed 45 days before business license expiration.
Customer Satisfaction Survey
To help us better serve you, please take a short one-minute customer satisfaction survey to provide any feedback for improvement.
For more information, please call the Business License Office at (562) 916-1236 or email business_license@cerritos.us.
Home Occupation Business License
Starting a Business in Cerritos (PDF)
Starting a Business in Cerritos: Flow Chart (PDF)
