Economic Development

Why do business in Big Bear –

 

Big Bear is a four season resort community with over 6 million visitors annually, which is more than Yellow Stone and Yosemite National Parks combined.  Being only a few hours from over 22.4 million people, located near two international airports (Los Angeles and Ontario), and situated in the middle of a pristine alpine forest at 7000 ft away from the pollution and traffic, Big Bear is ideally situated with many unique assets for any business whether it is a large company looking to relocate or a home-based business interested in a quieter lifestyle.


We are home to 20,000 residents and over 1,400 businesses including a top software developer, an international motorcycle manufacture, two ski resorts, several national chain retailers, and hundreds of small businesses that cater to our visitors, second homeowners, and residents.      

 

We boast distinguished public schools, 100 service organizations and non-profits, and over 100 annual community events including fireworks, car shows, theater productions, art shows, athletic races, heritage events, and many more.  We are home to international boxing champions, U.S. Olympians, world record holders, and thousands of outdoor enthusiasts and athletes. Year-round Big Bear has things for families, retirees, and everyone in between to do, see and experience. 

 

We are also located only a couple of hours from the beach or desert, which makes us a great location for any business interested in being in the middle of Southern California, but far enough away to enjoy a quiet mountain lifestyle.

 

As the local Chamber of Commerce we would be glad to help you establish your business in Big Bear. 

  

Below is a list of resources and links to help you do business in Big Bear. Please contact the Chamber at 909-866-4607 if you need additional assistance or email us with questions. 

 

Permits and Licenses -

City of Big Bear Lake Business Licenses and Information -  Click Here

County of San Bernardino Business Licenses and Information - Click Here

Alcohol License Information for a Business or Event - Click Here

Health Department Permits for a Business or Event - Click Here

Business Programs -

City of Big Bear Lake -

         Phasade & Sign Improvement Program  - Information Packet 

         Small Business Assistance Program - Application 

Resources and Information -

         City of Big Bear Lake Business Sign Ordinance - Click Here 

         Big Bear Consumer Reports by Buxton - Propensity Report or Analytics Report       

         Village Specific Plan Update - Summary Report 

         Moonridge Specific Plan - Click Here

         City of Big Bear Lake Master Plan -

         2010 Census Data - Click Here

         Inland Empire Small Business Development Center – Click Here

         John Husing's Economic Reports for the Inland Empire –  Click Here

         Inland Empire Economic Partnership –  Click Here

         About the Resort Association - Click Here

         About the City’s Improvement Agency –  Click Here

         Utilities – Link to directory

             

About the 2nd Homeowner Marketing Program - InsideBigBear.com

         Application for advertising  - Click Here

           

Shop Big Bear –

         About the 3/50 Project - Click Here

 

Village Business District –

The Village Business District is home to 159 businesses, including some of Big Bear's best dining and shopping experiences.  

         Events - Click Here

         Survey to provide feedback on the Village - Coming Soon 

         Village Business Association – Click Here

         Village Specific Plan – Click Here