Business License

The City of Palm Springs welcomes new businesses, and values the many businesses that have made Palm Springs their home. We want your business to be successful, and we hope the following information will be helpful to you in establishing your new business.

Who needs a Business License?
All businesses located within the city limits are required to have a valid business license from the City of Palm Springs. Businesses located outside the City of Palm Springs who conduct business activity within the city limits are also required to have a valid business license. Businesses who operate from a residential address are required to obtain a Home Occupation Permit before conducting business. It is unlawful for any person to transact and carry on any business, trade, profession, calling or occupation in the city without first having procured a license to do so.

Business Licenses are not transferable and the certificate is terminated when the business ownership changes.

Are there any exceptions?
Those businesses specifically exempted by State or Federal statute. Please see the Palm Springs Municipal Code, Chapter 3.40 for further information.

What should I do before I apply?
Contact our office to discuss the details of your particular business operation. Inquire about zoning requirements for your type of business and its planned location. This information can also be obtained from the Planning Department. In addition to obtaining the business license, you must also comply with all City, County, and State regulations for zoning, building, health and safety. Applications are available online in a fillable format. You can also obtain an application from the Business License Division at Palm Springs City Hall, or contact our office to request an application via mail, email or fax. For instructions and fees, please refer to the Business License Application Instruction Sheet and Fee Scale.

How can I get more information?
For more information please contact Carl Sessoms in the Business License Division at Carl.Sessoms@palmspringsca.gov.

Other Licensing or Permit Agencies
Below are other agencies that may assist you with information on obtaining other necessary licenses or permits. 

Riverside County Clerk-Recorder
For information on using a fictitious business name.
(800) 746-1544
http://riverside.asrclkrec.com/acr/OSfbn.asp

State Board of Equalization
For information on obtaining a Seller's Permit (Retail Sales Tax Number).
Rancho Mirage Office (760) 770-4828
www.boe.ca.gov

State Employment Development Department
For information on obtaining a State Employer Identification Number, withholding of State Income Tax, Disability and Unemployment Insurance.
(888) 745-3886
www.edd.ca.gov

Internal Revenue Service
For information on obtaining a Federal Employer Identification Number
(800) 829-1040
www.irs.gov

Franchise Tax Board
For information on obtaining Form 540 for estimating State Withholding Tax
(800) 852-5711
www.FTB.ca.gov  

Forms/Applications
Application for Business License
Escort Permit Application
Home Occupation Permit
Application for Business License (Real Estate)
Escort Bureau Application License
Request for Temporary Event Permit
Application for Bingo Permit
Health Certificate
Massage Permit Application
Massage Establishment Permit Application
Municipal Code regarding Massage Establishments
Psychic Activity Permit Application
Soliciting or Canvassing Application
Municipal Code regarding home occupancy