Start a Business

Once have a plan and funding for your business venture, you're ready to plug in other resources to get your business open. The checklist below will connect you to the information you'll need to get from business plan to open for business.

Contact our office for assistance and questions Monday-Friday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm.

Before signing a lease:

• Check the zoning for your location to ensure your business use is allowed. Use the city’s zoning map, or call our Planning office for assistance. 509-942-7794

  • Link to zoning codes for details on allowed uses and Special Use Permit information.
    • RMC 23.14 Agricultural Zoning (AG, SAG)
    • RMC 23.22 Commercial Zoning (C-LB, C-1, C-2, C-3, CBD, WF, CR, CW)
    • RMC 23.26 Industrial Zoning (I-M, M-2)
    • RMC 23.28 Business Zoning (B-RP, B-C)
    • RMC 23.46 Special Use Permits 
  • Review Parking requirements if your business type is different from what was in that location before. RMC 23.54
  • Check Building Codes and permit requirements for tenant improvements to leased space. This information is available from the Building Department’s website or call our office for help at 509-942-7794.
  • Check out business resources at https://www.richlandbusiness.com/resources for programs and available business assistance.

Before starting construction to remodel a building or space:

• Call and schedule a Pre-Application Meeting with our Development Services group. 509-942-7794
• Contact L&I for electrical permits for all electrical modifications.

Before opening:

• Get a Richland business license or add Richland as an endorsement to your existing state license. Go to https://dor.wa.gov/open-business/apply-business-license for details about getting a business license.
• Food & Beverage businesses need the following:
  

  • A Health Department permit is required before the business license will be approved.
  • Vehicle based businesses require a special license. Get more information and apply. 
  • A Liquor License is required prior to issuance of a business license if alcohol will be served.
• If you are opening in a new building or tenant-improved space, a Certificate of Occupancy is required before opening. Talk to a Permit Technician if you’re not sure if you need this. Permit Techs are available Monday-Friday 8:00 am – 5:00 pm by phone at 509-942-7794. Get more information on Building Permits here.


• Get a sidewalk Use License if you plan to have outside seating along a city sidewalk or to place an awning over a city sidewalk. Details about sidewalk use are available in RMC 5.14.


• Contact Utility Billing to set up services. (water, sewer, garbage, and electricity) You can also go online to sign up. 

Checklists and other information:

Use the links below to download and print this information in a helpful checklist format:

General Business 

Food & Beverage Business

(NOTE: The city cannot provide contractor recommendations)

Grants & Assistance
Business grants, financing, and gap funding