The City of South El Monte welcomes you, and we recognize the value and importance of a strong and varied business community.

We hope to offer you a better understanding of the business license tax and provide you with steps required for the application process. Starting a business can be exciting and challenging. We wish you great success in your new venture!

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 “start now” button located on the right of this page. From the main menu, please select the “apply” option to submit a new application for your business.

If you need further assistance applying for a business license, you are welcome to contact us at SouthElMonte@hdlgov.com or by phone at (626) 332-5797. Phone support is available Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm (PST).

Applying for a Business License

The General Business License tax application will be routed to various departments for review. Once all department reviews are completed and fees are paid in full, a Business License Tax Certificate will be issued. If the business location or mailing address changes, has an ownership or business name change, or becomes inactive, it is the certificate holder’s responsibility to notify the Business License tax office, and pay any applicable fees. Conducting a business in the City without a license can result in citations and/or fines. We send annual renewal notices; however, it is the certificate holder’s responsibility to renew on time to avoid late fees, and to notify us in writing of any changes.

All persons or corporations conducting business in the City of South El Monte must obtain a City Business License or Registration depending on the type of business. A license or registration must be obtained before a business is allowed to operate.

Yes. A separate business license and/or registration is required for each different business operated in the City of South El Monte. A person or company operating a second business at a primary business address must obtain a business license and/or registration for both businesses.

South El Monte based businesses must obtain an Occupancy Permit along with the Business License. The permit will provide when submitting a business license application. Both the Occupancy Permit and the Business License are applied for with the same forms. The permit fee is included in the business license fee.

South El Monte based businesses must obtain an Occupancy Permit along with the Business License. The permit will provide when submitting a business license application. Both the Occupancy Permit and the Business License are applied for with the same forms. The permit fee is included in the business license fee.