Massage Therapy Business Permit Requirements in San Diego, CA

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

Updated 2026-02-15 6 stops $700–$2,000 est. 7–14 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 CAMTC certification is required by virtually all California cities. Requirements include 500 hours (CMT) or 250 hours (CMP) of approved education and passing a background check. Certificates 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. Apply through the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration.

    Official government source

    Free1–2 weeks

City of San Diego / San Diego County

3 stops

  1. City of San Diego Business Tax Certificate

    All businesses operating in San Diego must register and obtain a Business Tax Certificate from the City Treasurer. For massage businesses, the certificate requires proof that all therapists hold valid CAMTC certificates. Annual renewal is required.

    Official government source

    $34–$200/year (based on gross receipts)1–2 weeks (online application)

  2. San Diego Massage Establishment Permit

    The City of San Diego requires massage establishments to obtain a Massage Establishment Permit through the Development Services Department or the Police Department. All massage therapists must hold a current CAMTC certificate. The establishment must pass inspection and comply with San Diego Municipal Code requirements for massage establishments.

    Official government source

    $300–$600/year4–8 weeks

  3. San Diego Zoning / Certificate of Occupancy

    A Certificate of Occupancy is required for commercial locations. Massage establishments must be in properly zoned areas (CC, CN, or CO zones typically). Contact the Development Services Department.

    Official government source

    $200–$5002–6 weeks

Terminus

Open for business — est. $700–$2,000 · 7–14 weeks to obtain all licenses and permits

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Official Sources

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