A plain-language map of the agencies, permits, and programs that matter when you launch or expand a business in the Village — from City Hall to the SBA. Every link goes to the agency's current official page.
Not every business needs every agency. Use this as an orientation, then jump to the category you need below.
Form & name the business
Register your entity with the California Secretary of State and file a Fictitious Business Name (DBA) with LA County if you operate under another name.
Get your tax IDs
Apply for a free federal EIN, then register with the EDD if you will have employees and with CDTFA if you sell taxable goods.
Register with the City
Every business in Los Angeles needs a Business Tax Registration Certificate from the Office of Finance; check zoning and permits with City Planning and LADBS.
Get free help
The LA Regional SBDC, LA BusinessSource, SCORE, and the County Office of Small Business all offer no cost advising and workshops.
City, county, state, and federal requirements, followed by the organizations that help you meet them.
33 resources across 5 categories
- Business Tax Registration Certificate (BTRC)City of Los Angeles Office of FinanceRegister for, renew, and pay the City of Los Angeles business tax; every business operating in city limits, including sole proprietors and LLCs, needs a BTRC.finance.lacity.gov (opens in a new tab)
- Building and Construction PermitsLos Angeles Department of Building and Safety (LADBS)Plan check, building permits, inspections, and property records for construction and tenant improvements in the City of Los Angeles.dbs.lacity.gov (opens in a new tab)
- Zoning and Land UseLos Angeles City PlanningZoning code, community plans, and development services for projects in the City of Los Angeles, including Toluca Lake.planning.lacity.gov (opens in a new tab)
- ZIMAS Zoning Information and Map Access SystemLos Angeles City PlanningLook up the zoning, overlays, and planning case history for any parcel in the City of Los Angeles by address.zimas.lacity.org (opens in a new tab)
- LA BusinessSource CentersCity of Los Angeles Economic and Workforce Development Department (EWDD)Free one on one consulting, training, and access to capital for City of LA businesses through ten regional centers, including South Valley (Van Nuys) and North Valley (Pacoima).Closest centers to Toluca Lake: South Valley (Van Nuys), 818 616 4118, and Hollywood, 213 989 3158.ewdd.lacity.gov (opens in a new tab)
About these links
Links open each agency's own website in a new tab. Requirements, fees, and forms change; the agency page is always the final word. Last reviewed October 2026. Spot something out of date? Tell the Chamber.
Need a personal referral — an accountant, a permit expediter, a landlord who knows the Village? Chamber members help each other.
Ask the Chamber for a referral
