Business Resource Center

The City launched a Business Ombudsperson Program with a dedicated staff person to facilitate the permit process for new businesses. The ombudsperson program can assist you with the following:

• Site selection assistance
• Permitting process assistance
• Business to business connections
• Pre-submittal coordination with developers and businesses
• Connection with regional, State and State organizations and more.

Please contact Luis Gonzalez at (310) 253-5767 for assistance with your business or project. 

Starting or expanding a business in Culver City may require permits, licenses, or approvals depending on the business type, location, and scope of operations. The Business Resource Center works with applicants to help identify applicable requirements and connect businesses with the appropriate City departments.

While every business is unique, the information below provides an overview of some of the most common permits and approvals associated with different business types.

Common Business Requirements

Most businesses operating in Culver City may require some combination of the following:

• Business Tax Certificate
• Building Permits
• Planning/Zoning Review
• Sign Permits
• Fire Department Review
• Health Permits
• Encroachment Permits
• Alcoholic Beverage Licensing
• Temporary Use or Special Event Permits
• Outdoor Dining Permits

Applicants are encouraged to contact the Business Resource Center early in the process to discuss project-specific requirements.

For those who want to start a business but don't know where to start or need answers quickly, the Business Hotline is available to help. The Business Hotline provides timely responses to existing and prospective businesses needing information or assistance.

Call us at (310) 253 - 5765!

What is the average permit turnaround?

• It depends on the scope of the project, but if there are no alterations to the building - general tenant improvement 3- 6 months

What are anticipated timelines for planning permits?

• Administrative Use Permit: 4-6 months
• Conditional Use Permit: 6-12 months

I’m interested in opening a business, how can I find zoning information about the commercial space I’m looking into?

• If you have a specific address in mind, you can use Culver City's Property Search to get zoning and overlay information. Once you know the zone, you can utilize the zoning code to ensure that your desired use is allowed. You would then meet with planning staff to ensure that the specific use is aligned with the code.

What type of permit do I need to sell alcohol at my commercial establishment?

• If your business is within 300 feet of residentially zoned property or an elementary/secondary school, an Administrative Use Permit is required. If you are more than 300 feet away, no use permit is required.
• Refer to Chapter 17.400.015 Alcoholic Beverage Sales for additional information and contact the planning counter at (310) 253-5725. Also, contact the State of California Alcoholic Beverage Control Board at (213) 736-2005 for additional requirements.

When do I need a permit?

• Permits are required anytime that a building, electrical or gas appliance are altered, constructed or modified in any way AND/OR changes in occupancy

Do I need an architect to create my plans?

• It is recommended by our Building Division that an architect submit and revise plans as it can make a permit issuance easier. If you have doubts, schedule a virtual meeting with the Building Division to clarify.

Can I have a business in my residence?

• Yes, but the home occupation must be accessory to and compatible with the residential characteristics of the surrounding neighborhood. Refer to Section 17.400.055 Home Occupations in the Zoning Code for operating standards and allowed and prohibited home occupations. Also, contact the Finance Department at (310) 253-5870 to obtain the required Business Tax Certificate.

Do I need a permit for signage?

• Yes. Planning approval is required for permanent signs, temporary signs, or banners. Refer to Table 3-5 Sign Standards for Non-Residential Zoning Districts in the Zoning Code for sign types and standards. Also, contact the planning counter for appropriate sign permit applications, fees, and submittal requirements. Once Planning has approved your plans, contact the Building Safety Division at (310) 253-5800 for information on applying for a building permit.

Can I put up a temporary sign or banner? How long can I keep it up?

• Planning approval is required for temporary signs and banners. Temporary signs can be up for no more than 30 consecutive days and no more than 4 times per calendar year.

What are the allowable construction hours?

• Monday – Friday: 8:00 am - 8:00 pm; Saturday: 9:00 am - 7:00 pm.
• Sunday: 10:00 am - 7:00 pm. (Or as indicated in a development agreement)

Does my restaurant need grease interceptor?

• Grease interceptors are used in restaurant plumbing to prevents fats, oils, and grease from entering the sewer system. Culver City has a minimum size requirement of 750 gallons.