Frequently Asked Questions for Businesses

See below for answers to the most frequently asked questions received from businesses considering relocating to or expanding in Culver City. Our trained and responsive staff looks forward to answering your specific questions. If you have additional questions or requests, please submit an online Business Assistance Request Form or call the Culver City Business Hotline at 310.253.5765.

How do I start a business in Culver City?
The Business Resource Center offers a wealth of community resources to aid individuals in starting a business. Economic development staff is here to assist you with your business needs. If you need assistance locating a site for your business, navigating through the city process, or need technical information on how to run a business, you can call the Culver City Business Hotline to speak with an economic development representative at 310.253.5765 or use our Business Assistance Request Form. We will provide rapid and in-depth issue resolution to your businesses needs.

Where should I locate my business?
Economic Development staff can assist you in finding an appropriate location for your business operation in Culver City. Click here for an on-line search of available sites. When considering a business location, you should also consider zoning regulations. Contact the Planning Division at 310-253.5725 to obtain zoning clearance for your business location.

Who do I contact first?
Your first step in opening a business should be to contact the Business Hotline (310.253.5765). An economic development representative will be happy to assist in providing information about the City process. You will also have to contact the Planning, Building & Safety, and Finance Department throughout the process.

Does the City have a list of available, vacant properties for commercial and industrial development?
Yes, Culver City has an inventory of available property for lease and for sale, which you can find by clicking here.

I am considering moving my business to Culver City. What services are available to help me evaluate the opportunity?  
The Culver City Business Resource Center is available to aid companies considering moving their business to Culver City. When an interested business contacts the Business Resource Center, an economic development representative in association with the Business Assistance Team can assist with everything from development costs to incentives. The Business Assistance Team is an interdepartmental coordinated effort which guarantees rapid responses for your questions and concerns. We take care of all the groundwork to make working with Culver City a pleasurable experience and to allow your company’s development solutions to be simple and cost effective.

Does my type of business activity require special permits/licenses?
Special permits and licenses are granted through the Finance Department and/or Planning Department. For information on business licensing, call 310.253.5870. For information on administrative use or conditional use permits, call the Planning Hotline at 310.253.5725. Staff at the Business Resource Center can also help determine which local, regional, state, and federal licenses and permits you will need for your business operation.

What information is available to help me better understand the City’s process and requirements for opening a business?
Please refer to the Open for Business Guide and the Guide to Opening a Business Flowchart.

Where can I find demographics for Culver City neighborhoods?
Click here for specific information on Culver City neighborhoods.

Will I need a business tax certificate from the City of Culver City?
Yes, all businesses must obtain a business tax certificate. Contact the Finance Department at 310-253-5870 for detailed information and applications.  

Who can I call if I have a comment, question, or suggestion about City services related to my business and its future success in Culver City?
Submit a comment, question or suggestion using our Business Assistance Request Form on the City’s Business webpage or call the Business Hotline at 310.253.5765.

Who do I call if I have information concerning a company that is considering moving to Culver City or needs assistance to remain in Culver City?
The City's Public-Private Partnership Program includes a variety of incentives that may be available to companies making investments and/or creating jobs in Culver City. Contact the Business Hotline at 310.253.5765 for more information.

What are the types of Building/Safety permit application processes?
Click here for a description of the types of Building & Safety Permit Application Processes.

When is a Building permit required?
Click here for a list of items that require a permit from Building & Safety.