FAQs
What are the steps to becoming certified?
Step 1: Registration
Register with the program here, and a Green Business Program representative will contact you for an initial consultation.
Step 2: In-Person Assessment
- If the program is a good fit , a brief onsite assessment will be scheduled at convenient time for the business.
- After the assessment, businesses will receive a customized report of measures to complete. Certification criteria is based upon property size and business type.
- Free consulting and training is provided to assist the business in every step of the way.
Step 3: Certification
- Once a business is certified with the City of West Hollywood, they receive:
- A physical and digital copy of an official certificate
- Certification logos to place on the business website and any other marketing materials
- Window decals to display on storefronts
- An official City Council Commendation Scroll
- Participation in numerous B2B opportunities
- Businesses who achieve the Tier 2 Certification are listed in the CAGBN Directory
How long does the certification process take?
The amount of time for a business to achieve certification varies. A few factors that determine the duration of the certification process include:
- How many green practices are already in place that are recognized on the business sector’s checklist?
- How complex the facility is (e.g. does it include a commercial kitchen or is it more than 20,000 SF)?
- How committed is the business to making the required changes quickly?
A business with most of the green measures already in place can usually achieve certification within 2-3 months. A business with a more complex facility, which will require comprehensive changes or fixture upgrades, can take up to 6 months. Our program administrators will guide your business through the entire process.
How long is a Green Business Certificate valid?
Once a business passes the final onsite verification visit, they are certified for a three-year period. Certified businesses will receive a 3-month notification via email before they are due for renewal.
Can I still apply for Green Business Certification if my business does not fall under one of the sectors listed?
No. At this time, Green Business Certification is limited to the business sectors listed. As the Program grows, the green checklists will expand to include other sectors.
- Cannabis Dispensaries**
- Grocery
- Office/Retail
- Property Management - Commercial
- Property Management - Residential
- Restaurant (includes cafes etc.)
- Schools (K-12)