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

The easiest and fastest way to apply for a new business license or renew your current license is using the online filing method. To begin, simply click on the "Submit a Business License Application" located below under the Apply subheading.

If you need further assistance applying for a business license, you are welcome to contact us at PalosVerdesEstates@hdlgov.com or by phone Toll-Free at (310)-773-3301. Office hours are Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (PST).


To get started, please select one of the online activities below:
Apply
Renew
Pay
  • Business License Amount Due

    Start here to pay a balance due on an established account with the CIty of Palos Verdes Estates. Please do not use this option to begin the license renew process.

Close
  • Close a business online

    Start here if you do not plan to operate or conduct any business activity in the City of Palos Verdes Estates.

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Download Forms

Please download below

Business License Application .pdf   file_download
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Frequently Asked Questions

A business license is an annual business tax for doing business within the City limits. The City of Palos Verdes Estates Municipal Code (Section 5.16) requires that you obtain a license when you conduct any business activity within the City, even if your business is located outside of the City limits or if you have a business license from another City. Businesses that are based in the City must also have a business license. This includes home based businesses, building contractors, independent contractors, and non-profit businesses.

Business license taxes and fees help pay for City services like roads, fire, police and other community services. These services benefit businesses, business owners, and the general public.

You are required to obtain a business license prior to the commencement of business in the City of Palos Verdes Estates. Penalties will apply if applications are received after business has begun. Thereafter, business licenses renew every year on December 31st and taxes and fees are due by January 31st.

Yes, businesses operating from a location inside the City of Palos Verdes Estates may require a zoning review from the Planning Division. This is to ensure that the business activity and site location are compatible with the City’s municipal code and zoning requirements. Businesses operating from a residential (home based) location in the City will need to complete a Statement of Purpose of Home Occupations form.