HOOKAH LICENSE
To get a hookah license in California, you must first obtain a tobacco retailer's license from the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA). You can apply for a tobacco retailer's license online or by mail.
Once you have obtained a tobacco retailer's license, you must then apply for a hookah license from the city or county where your business is located. Each city and county has its own requirements for hookah licenses; we will help you get aligned with your local government to learn more.
In general, most cities and counties in California require hookah lounges to meet the following requirements:
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Be located in a commercial zone.
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Have a minimum of 1,000 square feet of space.
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Be equipped with a fire suppression system.
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Have a ventilation system that meets certain specifications.
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Have a security plan in place.
In addition to the general requirements, some cities and counties may also have additional requirements for hookah lounges, such as age restrictions for customers, restrictions on the types of hookah tobacco that can be sold, and noise restrictions.
Once you have met all of the requirements for a hookah license, you can submit your application to your local government. The application process typically takes several weeks, and there is a fee associated with applying for a hookah license.
The hookah licensing process is complex and time-consuming. Our experienced team will help you navigate the entire hookah licensing process, from a security plan and a business plan, from understanding the requirements to submitting the application to answering questions from the licensing authority.