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1. What should I do before I begin my business?

Contact the Planning Division to confirm that your business is permitted at your desired location. A careful review of the zoning requirements is important before signing any lease or leasing a property. We strongly recommend you contact us before signing any lease or expend any funds to make sure the business you want to begin is allowed. You can schedule an appointment to meet with a Planner at 562-383-4100. For any additional information on starting your business, please visit the La Habra Chamber of Commerce. La Habra Chamber of Commerce

2. Will I require any special permits to operate my business?

Some businesses require the approval of a Conditional Use Permit (CUP). These types of businesses require additional review for such things as parking, hours of operation, noise, or large assemblies of people. Typical businesses that require a CUP include restaurants, alcoholic beverage sales, gyms, dance or karate studios, automobile sales and services, and outdoor businesses. In addition, major renovation of a commercial building or property may require approval of a Design Review. Please consult with Planning Staff if you have any questions or concerns at 562-383-4100.

3. What type of business requires a Conditional Use Permit?

Each of the different land use zones allow for a certain types of businesses by right, through a Conditional Use Permit, or not permitted at all. If you are not aware of the zoning designation for your property, please contact us at 562-383-4100. Using the Land Use Marix found in the Zoning Code you can find the business you wish to establish and locate your land use designation at the top of the matrix. Should the use require a Conditional Use Permit, please contact us for additional information on the process. If you business is not listed, please contact us for a determination on the use for the zone you wish to locate in. We strongly suggest that you do not sign a lease until you have confirmation from us that your proposed business is allowed on the property. If the use is permitted by right but you wish to make interior building improvements, please contact the Building & Safety Division at 562-383-4116 to determine if building permits are needed. Should improvements be planned for the exterior portion of the building or property, please contact us for confirmation that the improvements will not result in a Zoning Code violation.

4. Does my business require a grease interceptor?

Generally, businesses that handle or cook food require a grease interceptor to prevent grease from entering the sewer system and eventually creating blockages. The type of system required can vary depending on the amount of grease created. Should you wish to establish a business that will prepare foods, we would strongly encourage you to contact the Water Division within the Public Works Department to see if your business will be required to install a grease interceptor at 562-383-4170.

5. Who needs a Business License?

A license is required in order to conduct business in the City of La Habra. Every business, unless exempted by the State of California, is required to have a valid Business License. Business License applications and fees can be obtained from the Business License Division. You can contact the Business License Division at 562-383-4050.

6. Do I need City approval to make changes to the building or property?

If you wish to make interior building improvements please contact the Building Division at 562-383-4116 to determine if building permits are needed. Typically, if you are using the building as-is with just furniture being moved in, no building permit is required. Should you wish to alter, add, or remove a wall, building permits will be required. Changes to the electrical and plumbing system will more than likely require a permit. Should improvements be planned for the exterior portion of the building or property, please contact us for confirmation that the improvements will not result in a Zoning Code violation. We are here to assist you so please feel free to contact us with any questions. We would much rather discuss with you plans for your business, how to address challenges, and get you in operation with the least amount of time and cost at the outset of the project.

7. What type of permanent signs can I use?

Permanent signs are regulated by the City Municipal Code for size and type, varying on the zone where your business is located. In addition, there may be an approved Sign Program for the property you wish to locate your business within. Where a Sign Program exists, you will be required to comply with the restrictions within that document. Building permits will be required prior to installing the signs. Please consult with Planning Staff to determine the size and type of sing that is allowed for your location or if a Sign Program exists for the property.

8. What type of temporary signs can I use?

Banners are permitted to be used by businesses for 30 days, up to 3 times per year. A banner is limited in size to 45 square feet, or 3 feet by 15 feet. A banner permit can be obtained from the Planning Division or from the City website prior to installing the banner. Other types of temporary signs such as inflatables, pennants, streamers, strobe lights, and moving signs generally are not permitted. The use of human display signs is not permitted. Please consult with Planning Staff is you have any questions.

9. Can I place signs on public property?

Advertising is not permitted to be placed on public property (i.e. the public right of way) which includes the sidewalk and the parkway (between the sidewalk and street). The use of human display signs is not permitted. Additionally, signs cannot be placed on power poles, sign poles, utility boxes, or other public structures.

10. Can I have outdoor sales or an outdoor event?

Special Events are permitted for businesses located within the City with the approval of a Special Event Permit. These events are permitted 4 times per year and are classified as "small" and "large" events. A small special event is permitted up to 4 consecutive days. Generally, small special events include grand openings, holiday sales (Valentine's Day, Mother's Day, Christmas, etc...), or other promotional events. The Special Event Permit for these small events must be submitted to Planning Staff at least 30-45 days prior to the event. For large special events, such as car shows, street fairs, carnivals, and food festivals, a Site Plan Application must be submitted at least 90 days prior to the event. Large special events require Planning Commission review and approval. Applications for either a small or large event can be obtained at the Planning front counter or within the Planning Division webpage. Please feel free to contact Planning Staff is you have any questions.