Are you planning to open a business in Bellflower?

There are several important things you will need to know, as well as applications and forms that are required in order to obtain your business license permit.  The first important step you must take is to determine if your business location is permitted in the zone where you are planning to open.  Certain businesses are forbidden in certain zones. 

Calling the Planning Division at the Business Licenses at City Hall and discussing the location (be sure to have the physical address available) is the best way to find out if your zone is approved.  They can be reached at (562) 804-1424, or if you prefer, you can visit the office in person at 16600 Civic Center Drive.  Once you have determined if your location is approved, the next step is to familiarize yourself on the permits and city requirements that may affect your business. 

You will certainly need a Bellflower business license application, which can be obtained at the Business License counter at City Hall (16600 Civic Center Drive), but will you need a liquor license,  a health inspection, or a building inspection?  These questions are easily answered by asking yourself what type of business you will be running.  Are you opening a restaurant?  Any business that handles food will need to contact the Los Angeles County Environmental Health Department.  If you are serving liquor, you are required to have a liquor license, even if you are not handling food.  You will have to contact the board of Alcohol Beverage Control to apply.  Safety and fire inspections may be needed as well, so it is best to contact the Business License office at (562) 804-1424 to determine if other inspections or permits are required.

Do you plan to operate a business from your home?

In addition to your business license, you will need a Home Occupation Permit in order to run your business from your residence.  There is a short application that will need to be printed and returned to the Bellflower City Hall.  This application outlines many of the rules and regulations associated with running a business from your home.  You are required to disclose the the name of the owner of your property, a detailed description of what business you will be conducting and whether you have any deeds or covenants that would restrict your using your residence as a base for your business.  You must familiarize yourself with the regulations pertaining to home occupation and sign off that you understand and will comply with each and every rule.

What fees can you expect to incur?

In Bellflower, fees for obtaining your business license are determined using the number of employees, including yourself as business owner, the type of business you are operating, the number of vehicles your business will utilize, and an estimation of your gross receipts. 

Are there other things you should note?

1. If you plan to open a massage establishment, you will be fingerprinted, incur a $475.00 non-refundable fee, a business license application fee of $448.00 and a $53.00 non-refundable processing fee.  You must also have a certificate of compliance from the Sheriff's Department, Department of Health and Human Services and the Planning Division prior to having your application approved.
2. There is a list of business permit forms that can be downloaded and reviewed at City Of Bellflower website which will outline the procedures and requirements for many types of businesses. 
3. You must state what type of ownership you have in your business, whether you are the sole proprietor, in a joint partnership, part of a larger corporation, in a Trust or an LLC
4. You may need to obtain a FEIN (Federal Employers ID Number) to run your business.  You can request this from a local tax office or you can visit their website at http://www.irs.gov/Businesses/Small-Businesses-&-Self-Employed/Apply-for-an-Employer-Identification-Number-(EIN)-Online.

Do you have questions or concerns?

Contact the Bellflower Business License Office at Bellflower City Hall, 16600 Civic Center Drive or call them at (562)894-1424 ext. 2008.

 

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