Licenses & Permits to Open a Restaurants & Bar in Los Angeles, CA
Opening a restaurants & bar in Los Angeles requires between 12–16 permits. Here's the complete list, with costs, timelines, and links to every agency. If you are missing licenses, we can handle registration and then manage renewals for you.
Complete License Checklist for Restaurants & Bars in Los Angeles
| License | Required? | Cost | Issuing Agency | Renewal |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business License | Yes | $101 – $81,327 | Office of Finance | Annual (January 1) |
| Health Permit | Yes | $403 – $1,106 | LA County Department of Public Health | Annual |
| Food Handler's Permit | Yes | $10–$50 | Office of Finance | Every 2–3 years |
| Liquor / Alcohol License | If applicable | $1,200 – $13,800 | California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) | Annual |
| Fire Inspection Certificate | Yes | $50–$500 | Office of Finance | Annual |
| Signage / Sign Permit | If applicable | $25–$500 | Office of Finance | One-time or annual |
| Building Permit | If applicable | $100–$5000 | Office of Finance | Per project |
| Certificate of Occupancy | Yes | $25–$500 | Office of Finance | Upon change of use or tenancy |
| Sales Tax Permit | Yes | $0–$100 | Office of Finance | Varies by state |
| DBA / Fictitious Business Name | If applicable | $10–$100 | Office of Finance | Every 5 years |
| Music License (ASCAP / BMI / SESAC) | If applicable | $250–$2000 | Office of Finance | Annual |
| Sidewalk Café / Outdoor Dining Permit | If applicable | $100–$1500 | Office of Finance | Annual |
Total Estimated Cost
The total licensing cost for a restaurants & bar in Los Angeles varies based on your specific business activities, size, and location. Budget for the sum of all applicable license fees listed above, plus potential inspection and professional certification costs.
We'll track all licenses for your restaurants & bar in Los Angeles.
We can register missing licenses first, then manage every renewal deadline.
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