Event Planning Permit Requirements in Los Angeles, CA

Complete permit and license guide for starting a event planning in Los Angeles, Los Angeles County, California.

Verified 2026-08-27 6 stops $200–$700 est. 2–4 weeks to obtain business license and state registrations; allow 4–8 weeks if you need special event permits for client events in public spaces
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Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. Key agencies and fees on this page were re-checked against official government sources on .

Federal — start here

1 stop

  1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

    Required if operating as a business entity (LLC or corporation) or if you have employees. Free from the IRS. You will need an EIN to open a business bank account and sign vendor contracts professionally.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online application)

State of California

2 stops

  1. California Business Registration

    Event planning businesses operating in California must register with the California Secretary of State if operating as an LLC, corporation, or partnership. Sole proprietors using a trade name must file a DBA registration with the state or county clerk. An LLC provides personal liability protection, which is especially important when coordinating large events.

    Official government source

    $70 (LLC Articles) or $100 (corporation) + $800/yr FTB minimum tax; county FBN filing if using a trade name1–7 business days (online)

  2. California Sales Tax Permit (if applicable)

    Event planning/coordination services are not subject to California sales tax. If you sell tangible goods (decor, favors, florals), register for a free CDTFA seller's permit and collect tax on those sales.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online)

City of Los Angeles / Los Angeles County

3 stops

  1. Los Angeles Business Tax Registration Certificate (BTRC)

    All businesses operating in the City of Los Angeles must register with the Office of Finance for a Business Tax Registration Certificate (BTRC) — LA's equivalent of a business license. Registration is free; the obligation is an annual business tax based on gross receipts. Businesses with worldwide gross receipts of $100,000 or less owe $0 tax under the Small Business Exemption if the annual renewal is filed on time. Note: the first year is not tax-exempt; first-year tax is paid as 'back tax' at the first renewal.

    Official government source

    $0 to register; annual tax gross-receipts-based ($0 if worldwide gross receipts are $100,000 or less and renewal is filed on time)1–2 weeks

  2. Los Angeles Special Event Permit (for events in public spaces)

    Events using City of Los Angeles public streets, sidewalks, parks, or plazas require a Special Event Permit, applied for through the StreetsLA Special Events Portal. Event planners often obtain the permit on the client's behalf. Requirements typically include event details, expected attendance, proof of general liability insurance naming the City, and site/traffic plans for larger events. Fees vary by event classification and city services required.

    Official government source

    Varies by event size, classification, and city services required — see the StreetsLA Special Events Portal2–6 weeks (apply at least 30 days in advance for most events; 60+ days for large events)

  3. Los Angeles County Temporary Use / Special Event Permit (if applicable)

    Events held on unincorporated Los Angeles County land or at county facilities may require county approvals: special-event permits from LA County Parks & Recreation for county parks, temporary-use review from the Department of Regional Planning for private land, and temporary food facility permits from LA County Public Health if food is served. Requirements and fees vary by venue and event size — confirm with the county department that controls the site.

    Official government source

    Varies by venue and event type — confirm with the controlling county department2–4 weeks

Terminus

Open for business — est. $200–$700 · 2–4 weeks to obtain business license and state registrations; allow 4–8 weeks if you need special event permits for client events in public spaces

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