In accordance with Vista Municipal Code 5.24, the City of Vista requires an active live entertainment permit for businesses to offer live entertainment within their establishment. Entertainment is defined as

• Presentations by single or multiple performers, such as hypnotists, pantomimes, comedians, musical song or dance acts, karaoke, plays, concerts, any type of contest; sporting events, exhibitions, carnival, rodeo or circus acts, demonstrations of talent; shows, reviews, any other such activity which may be attended by members of the public.
• Dancing to live or recorded music.
• The presentation of recorded music played on equipment which is operated by an agent or contractor of the establishment, commonly known as "DJ” or “disc jockey."

Prior to applying, please review the Live Entertainment Permit Package. This document includes the applicable municipal code, application instructions, exemptions to the permit requirement, Sherriff’s department background check form and answers frequently asked questions.

Application Process

If a business would like to offer Live entertainment as defined above, they are required to hold an active live entertainment permit. Application should be submitted 45 days prior to start of any entertainment, effective date for a change in class (permit type) or applied condition, and/or sale of ownership in the business equal to or greater than 10%.

The live entertainment permit package includes

• A completed and signed, Live Entertainment Permit Application
• Floor plan where the live entertainment will take place. *
  • *Amplified live entertainment outdoors/semi-outdoors is limited to designated planning districts/areas; outdoor entertainment is only allowed in permitted patio areas
• Copy of ABC license, if alcohol will be served
• Completed Sheriff’s Department Miscellaneous information sheet for all business partners owning 10% or more of the company, and current manager
• List of current employees including licensee, managers and servers and copies of their Responsible Beverage Sales and Service Certificates if alcohol will be served 

Permit Types

*Live entertainment permits after 07/01/2022 will be issued on a biannual basis. The annual fee for both years will be due at time of permit issuance. Example: A 2A permit is requested and issued 08/2022. $150 is due when the permit is approved. (Annual fee $75x2 years= $150) Permit is valid from 08/2022-08/2024. Nothing more is due until if/when the permit is renewed.

Amendment to current Live Entertainment Permit

If you are a current Live Entertainment Permit holder and would like to request an amendment to your current permit, please submit the Live Entertainment Amendment application and the following information.

• Completed and signed “Request for Amendment to Live Entertainment Permit"
• Floor plan (if requesting to add amplification and/or dancing)
• Miscellaneous information sheet (for any new managers or owners)

Please direct all completed applications, application materials and any questions to:
Sara Trench, Management Analyst
City Manager's Office
P: 760.643.5206
E: strench@cityofvista.com