LA Hotel Permits | Compliance & Licensing

Hotel Permit

Opening a hotel in Los Angeles? You’re going to need a permit for that. In fact, you’re going to need a few permits. Permitting your hotel is a multi-agency endeavour that involves the Police Department, the Health Department and even your tax information.

What is considered to be a hotel in Los Angeles?

The city of Los Angeles defines a hotel as being any establishment that provides temporary lodging in a guest room for 30 days or less. This includes:

• Hotels
• Motels
• Motor lodges
• Apartment hotels
• Private residential clubs
• Tourist courts
• Hostels that have dormitory-style accommodations and private guest rooms available for rent.

There are exceptions to this definition. Student housing for an education institution (like a dorm), a licensed bed and breakfast located within a single unit residence, boarding houses, single-room occupancy housing and corporate housing does not count at a hotel and does need to get the same permits as a hotel does.

Which permits do I need to operate a hotel in Los Angeles?

In order to operate your hotel, you will need to get several permits.

First, you will have to complete the Hotel & Short Term Rentals Compliance Registration with the Police Commission. This needs to be completed annually.

If your hotel is located within Los Angeles County, your establishment also is required to hold a Public Health License in order to operate. In addition, your hotel will be inspected annually by the Lodging and Institutions Program with the Los Angeles County Environmental Health Department.

Also, you will need a Business Tax Registration Certificate. You also are responsible for registering, collecting and paying the Transient Occupancy Tax to the City of os Angeles. If you are completing any type of remodeling of the facility, you may also have to apply for building permits with the Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety.

Should I use a permit expeditor for my hotel permits?

As you can see, many of the necessary permits required to operate a hotel are completed annually. A professional permit expeditor will ensure that all permits are turned in annually on time. They have experience with the permitting process and will ensure that all your paperwork is completed in full and on time.

Looking for a permit expeditor for your hotel? Give us a call today for a free quote.