Are you planning to open a business in Lowell? Here are some things you need to know to obtain a business license:
Contact the Zoning and Permitting Office to discover what areas you will be permitted to operate your business from. If you need help creating a successful business model, please contact theLowell Small Business Center for guidance:
Lowell Small Business Center
88 Middle Street, Second Floor
Lowell, MA 01852
978-322-8400
www.lowellsbac.org
Next, read the pamphlet Navigating Through Regulations and License Requirements. Many common questions are addressed as well as some questions being answered that you might not have known to ask. Lastly, apply for the business license with the City of Lowell and pay the fees that they advise will be required.
Where will you get an application for your Lowell business license?
The business license applications are business-specific, the following are the available business licenses:
- Auto Body Shop License
- Auto Repair Shop License
- Barber Shop License (in addition, you will also require state licensure)
- Beauty Salon License (in addition, you will also require state licensure)
- Catering License
- Child Care License
- Dry Cleaner License
- Flower Shop License
- Home Improvement
- Interior Decorator
- Landscaper
- Laundromat
- Livery
- Retail Store
- Sewing Shop
- Shoe Repair
- Small Grocery Store
- Small Restaurant
- TV/Radio Repair Shop
You may get any of these business license applications at City Hall:
City Clerk’s Office
City Hall, 1st Floor
375 Merrimack Street
Lowell, MA 01852
978-970-4161
What about zoning in Lowell?
The City of Lowell recommends that you speak directly with the Zoning and Permitting Office to ensure that your chosen business property meets safety standards set forth by the City Ordinances as well as the location being in a properly zoned area for the type of business you will operate.
Zoning and Permitting Office
City Hall
375 Merrimack Street
Lowell, MA 01852
(978) 446-7108
Do you plan to operate a Lowell business from home?
You will only be required to obtain a business license if you have a business type in the above listing. However, even if you will not be obligated to gain a business license, you still must have your property inspected and approved by the Zoning and Permitting Office:
Zoning and Permitting Office
City Hall
375 Merrimack Street
Lowell, MA 01852
(978) 446-7108
How long can you expect to wait for your Lowell business license?
The estimated turnaround time is approximately one to two weeks, provided that you have done all the proper legwork, secured permits and approvals, and have gone through the proper avenues. However, if any paperwork is incomplete or if there are other issues that need to be resolved, you could have to wait until they are solved. This is why it is crucial to speak with the City of Lowell if you have any questions whatsoever.
What is the cost for a Lowell business license?
For a Lowell business license, the fees vary so widely that you will be required to speak with the City Clerk’s Office for an individual evaluation of your business plan. After the evaluation, you will be provided an estimate. The City Clerk's Office can be reached at (978) 970-4161.
Who should you contact for more information?
For additional information, questions or concerns, you can visit the City of Lowell Clerk’s Office at:
City Clerk’s Office
City Hall, 1st Floor
375 Merrimack Street
Lowell, MA 01852
(978) 970-4161
Visit the City of Lowell at http://www.lowellma.gov/depts/dpd/services/econdev/assistance.
*Please note that the hours of operation are Monday through Friday between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. excluding federal holidays.
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