The City of West Covina welcomes you to its business community. Starting a business can be exciting and challenging. We wish you great success in your new venture!
The City of West Covina requires all businesses operating within the City limits to obtain a business license and pay business license tax prior to commencing business operations.
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 WestCovina@hdlgov.com or by phone Toll-Free at (626) 513-0043. Office hours are Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m."
BUSINESS LICENSE DIRECTORY: Business License Verification Search
Transient Occupancy Tax Assessment returns for Hotels and Motels can now be submitted via mail, e-mail, online, and by phone to simplify your monthly reporting. To submit your TOT online please click the “Start Now” button found on the right and select the “Renew” option to begin your monthly filing process.
Please be aware: penalties and interest will apply to any payment received after midnight, the night of the due date, which is the last day of the month following each filing period.
If you need further assistance, you are welcome to contact us at WestCovina@hdlgov.com or by phone Toll-Free at (626) 768-0086. Office hours are Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m."
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What is a Business License?
A business license is an annual business tax for doing business within the City limits. The City of West Covina Municipal Code (Section 14-18) requires that you obtain a license when you conduct any business activity within the City, even if your business is located outside of the City limits or if you have a business license from another City. Businesses that are based in the City must also have a business license. This includes home based businesses, building contractors, independent contractors, and non-profit businesses.
Business license taxes and fees help pay for City services like roads, fire, police and other community services. These services benefit businesses, business owners, and the general public.
When should an application be submitted?
You are required to obtain a business license within 15 days of the commencement of business in the City of West Covina. Penalties will apply if applications are received after this 15-day period. Thereafter, business licenses renew every year on December 31st and taxes and fees are due by January 31st.
Are there any restrictions on where I do business?
Yes, businesses operating from a location inside the City of West Covina may require a zoning review from the Planning Division. This is to ensure that the business activity and site location are compatible with the City’s municipal code and zoning requirements. Businesses operating from a residential (home based) location in the City will need to complete a Statement of Purpose of Home Occupations form.
Are residential rentals required to have a business license?
Yes, per the City’s municipal code (Chapter 14 – Licenses and Business Regulations) all residential, commercial and office rental require a business license.
Sec.14-68 – ScheduleCategory Code A: A-I Residential Rentals
Apartments, hotels, motels, mobile home parks, convalescent homes, nursing homes, hospitals and businesses of a like nature or similar character.
Category Code A: A-II Office and Commercial Rentals
Offices, stores, industrial plants or any building or structure of any kind on land located in the city and rented to a tenant for purposes other than dwelling, sleeping, or lodging. This includes the letting of every kind and character, whether by an owner, lessee or sublessee, of such types of rentals. Where a land lease is in effect for the purpose of effectuating the use of the property for the purposes noted in this category, then such rents from said land shall also be subject to the business licensing provisions herein.
