California note
Downey business licenses should start before the lease
Downey business license work can start online, but the city also points new businesses to check the location with Planning before signing a lease or buying property.
In Downey, a business license is part of opening many kinds of businesses. That can include a home business. It can also include short-term business activity or outside contractor work tied to the city.
Handle the address early. Before signing a lease or buying a place for a business, check with Planning to see whether that use fits the location. One call can save a lot of backtracking.
New licenses can start online or in person at City Hall. Renewals use the online path. Use the account number and PIN from the renewal notice. Downey also has a business search if you need to check whether a license is already on file.
Have the business name, owner contact, address, activity, and any signs, customers, food, vehicles, or contractor work written down before you start.
Where to see it
Downey Business License page.
Official sources
Official pages
Reviewed July 3, 2026
Current rules, forms, fees, deadlines, maps, and office instructions.
Rules, forms, fees, deadlines, and office procedures can change. Check the current page before you file, pay, or rely on a date.
Connected places
Open the local directory
Related notes
Related California notes
Downey building permits can move through electronic plan check
Downey uses Building and Safety, Accela Citizen Access, contractor license paperwork, business-license checks, and fee tables for many building permit questions.
Read next →Downey bulky items should be listed before pickup
Downey's bulky item page routes residents to Athens Services and asks people to schedule pickup for large items that do not fit regular containers.
Read next →Downey Connect is the online service request start
Downey Connect is the city's online service request system, with report links for residents, graffiti, streetlights, and other common local requests.
Read next →