Professional License Fees Raised

Professionals and tradespeople working in Hermosa Beach, such as contractors, doctors and lawyers, will pay a higher fee when they renew their annual business licenses this year.

Increases in the flat fees--now $150, plus $12 for each of the professional’s employees, in most categories--will be tied to annual rises in the cost of living.

Retail businesses, which pay fees based on a percentage of gross income, will not be affected by the new measure, which voters approved in November. The City Council adopted a policy resolution Tuesday to increase the fees.