Business License Services Transition

The City of Palm Desert is preparing to transition business license services from HDL Companies back to direct City staff.

Bringing these services in-house will allow the City to provide more responsive service, streamline business license administration, and offer direct support to the business community.

The City will provide regular updates throughout the transition and notify businesses before any changes take effect.

Why We're Making This Change

The City is bringing business license services in-house to:

• Provide direct support from City staff
• Streamline applications, renewals, and account management
• Improve customer service and response times
• Increase local oversight of business license operations

What Business Owners Need to Know

• Current business licenses remain valid through their expiration dates.
• Continue renewing your license according to your normal schedule.
• Business license fees are not expected to change.
• Businesses will likely need to create a new online account when the City’s Business License Portal launches.
• If account numbers or login information change, businesses will be notified in advance.
• The City is working to minimize any service interruptions during the transition.

Transition Timeline

Fall 2026

• Business outreach begins
• FAQs and support resources become available

December 2026

• New City Business License Portal launches
• Businesses receive account setup instructions
• Business license services transition to City staff
• Ongoing customer support continues

New Business License Portal

The new online portal will allow businesses to:

• Apply for a business license
• Renew licenses online
• Pay invoices securely
• Update business information
• Upload required documents
• Search business licenses
• Communicate directly with City staff

Until the transition is complete, businesses should continue contacting HDL Companies:

Phone: (442) 325-3954

Email: palmdesert@hdlgov.com

HDL will continue supporting businesses during the transition period until the City announces updated contact information.

Stay Informed

Please verify that your mailing address, email address, and phone number are current to ensure you receive important updates.

Watch for future announcements through Engage Palm Desert, City communications, and direct outreach.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a new business license?
No. Your current license remains valid until its expiration date.

Will my fees change?
No changes to business license fees are expected as part of this transition.

Will I need a new online account?
Yes. Businesses should expect to create a new account when the City’s new portal becomes available.

Can I still pay online?
Yes. Continue using the current payment process until new instructions are provided.

Will there be service interruptions?
The City will work to minimize disruptions and provide advance notice if temporary service interruptions are necessary.

Who do I contact with questions?
Until further notice, contact HDL Companies at (442) 325-3954 or palmdesert@hdlgov.com.