Massage Therapy Business Permit Requirements in Los Angeles, CA

Complete permit and license guide for starting a massage therapy business in Los Angeles, Los Angeles County, California.

Updated 2026-02-15 6 stops $900–$2,500 est. 8–16 weeks to obtain all licenses and permits
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Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. This guide was compiled from public and official sources (last updated ) and has not yet been independently source-verified — confirm each requirement before acting on it.

Federal — start here

1 stop

  1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

    Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC/corporation. Free from the IRS.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online application)

State of California

2 stops

  1. California Massage Therapy Council (CAMTC) Certificate

    California does not issue a state massage license, but the California Massage Therapy Council (CAMTC) provides voluntary certification that is required by most California cities (including Los Angeles) in lieu of a city massage permit. Requirements include 500 hours (Certified Massage Therapist) or 250 hours (Certified Massage Practitioner) of approved education, and passing a background check. Certificate must be renewed every two years.

    Official government source

    $150 (CMT application) or $100 (CMP application) + $35 background check4–8 weeks

  2. California Seller's Permit (CDTFA)

    Required if selling tangible retail products (oils, lotions, gift items). Apply through the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration. Free to obtain.

    Official government source

    Free1–2 weeks (online application)

City of Los Angeles / Los Angeles County

3 stops

  1. City of Los Angeles Business Tax Registration Certificate (BTRC)

    All businesses operating in the City of Los Angeles must register with the Office of Finance and pay an annual business tax. The Business Tax Registration Certificate (BTRC) must be obtained before opening. Massage businesses fall under personal services and are taxed based on gross receipts.

    Official government source

    $50–$500/year (based on gross receipts; first $100,000 exempt for new businesses in year one)1–2 weeks (online application)

  2. City of Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) Massage Establishment Permit

    Under LAMC Section 103.205, all massage establishments in Los Angeles must obtain a Massage Establishment Permit from the LAPD. The permit requires all massage therapists to hold a valid CAMTC certificate, background checks for owners, and a premises inspection. Establishments that employ CAMTC-certified therapists are exempt from some older city requirements, but the LAPD permit is still required.

    Official government source

    $500–$800 (initial) + annual renewal fee6–12 weeks

  3. Los Angeles County Certificate of Occupancy

    A Certificate of Occupancy is required for commercial locations in LA. Ensure the space is zoned for personal service use (C1, C2, or CR zones typically). Apply through the LA Department of Building and Safety (LADBS).

    Official government source

    $200–$6002–6 weeks

Terminus

Open for business — est. $900–$2,500 · 8–16 weeks to obtain all licenses and permits

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Official Sources

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