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Business Licenses

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1. How long will it take for me to receive my business license in the mail?

For new applications: In-city licenses usually take 4-8 weeks and 8-10 weeks during the months of December and January. Out-of-city and home occupation licenses typically take 2-4 weeks to process.

For renewal applications: Most licenses typically take 2-4 weeks to process.

Current processing times for In-City business license applications are 4-8 weeks. The list below shows the application status for the current business week.

Business License Status List

2. Can I obtain a list of businesses in the City of La Mesa?

Lists can be obtained for $.50 per business listing (200+ businesses cost $100.00) by contacting the Business License Officer at 619.667.1118 or by the email contact form below. Payment must be received prior to obtaining the list and lists may be emailed/printed out.

Email Contact Form

3. What methods of payment does the City of La Mesa accept?

The City's payment options include payment with Visa/MasterCard or Discover in person with valid ID or personal/business checks and money orders mailed to:

City of La Mesa
8130 Allison Ave.
La Mesa, CA 91942

At this time we are not able to accommodate online or over the phone credit card payment requests.

4. Who do I notify about a suspected unlicensed business?

Please provide as much information as possible including the business name, owner name, address, phone number and type of business to:

Report a Problem

or

Phone: 619.667.1118

or

Mail: 8130 Allison Ave, La Mesa, CA 91942

5. What is the City of La Mesa's policy regarding solicitation?

Residential solicitation is allowed within the City however vehicle solicitation (fliers posted on vehicles in parking lots) is prohibited. Anyone may refuse solicitation and it is best to make this request at the time of the occurrence to the vendor and to ask for a business card for follow up. The City of La Mesa currently has an application process for solicitors wishing to do business within the City. The process includes fees, an investigation and the submittal of photographs. The license is valid for one year from the listed start date.

While the City of La Mesa wishes to make contact with every unlicensed solicitor we need your help! If you would like to complain about an unlicensed solicitor please follow the reporting process outlined above. Remember - while soliciting is allowed in residential areas, door-to-door, it is up to you to request "no soliciting".

6. Is a business license all that I need to operate my business in a legal manner?

The City of La Mesa business license is only a license to operate your business within the City. Business owners are responsible for all other applicable taxes, fees, and legal documents and licenses. Please see our brochure located on the "New Businesses" section for agencies to contact if you are opening a new business or changing ownership.
New Businesses