Retail Tenant Resource Guide

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Retail Tenant Resource Guide

Opening a business on Melrose Avenue?
This guide is here to help.

The Melrose Arts District (BID) created this resource packet to walk you through what to expect from first learning about the BID, through signing a lease, permitting, build-out, and day-to-day operations once you’re open. It covers key City agencies, required approvals, common pitfalls to watch for before you sign, and who to contact when questions come up.

Inside, you’ll find:

  • What the BID does and how we support tenants
  • Key contacts at the BID, City, and LAPD
  • What to check before signing a lease
  • Permitting, build-out, and Certificate of Occupancy guidance
  • City agencies and utility contacts
  • Restaurant and alcohol-specific requirements
  • A vendor/consultant appendix with what to look for and red flags to avoid