Business license requirements for home-based businesses in Oregon

Salem is the capital and Portland is the largest city in Oregon. It’s a good location to start any business, especially home-based businesses. More people have started home-based business as it offers them several advantages like reduced operating costs, saving time and money spent on traveling to workplace, spending quality time with family, etc. However, it takes some research to find out if there are any licensing requirements to operate a home business.

Business license requirements:

It is recommended to give your business a legal structure, which can be done with the help of an experienced lawyer who will also guide you as to the type of entity that best suits your business. This can also be done by calling the Oregon Corporate Division at (503) 986-2200 or by visiting their website http://www.filinginoregon.com

It will be necessary to choose a business name that has been formed in accordance with applicable state laws and ensuring that it is not a replica of any registered business.

You will need to know the various licenses that are required for your type of business and check if you are allowed to operate as an inside business. To obtain a license, all businesses must obtain approval from the County Planning, Building, Environmental Health and Facilities Departments. Home-based businesses must comply with all required zoning restrictions, regulations, and ordinances by the Tax Collector, Planning Department, in addition to being reviewed by the Fire Department and Sheriff’s Department if the nature of your business requires it.

There are several factors to consider, such as:

o Rule that allows only the resident of the house and an employee to work in the house, etc.

o Certain commercial businesses have certain restrictions, such as complying with zoning laws and regulations that may limit the size of their signs, restrict outdoor storage, parking space, or require other special permits, etc.

It will be advisable to contact your local courthouse for details on the exact licenses and permits that pertain to your chosen business area.

Some types of businesses do not need licenses, while others require special business licenses and still others need a general business license. Some home-based businesses also require licensing at the state level, such as the food service industry or if you are a professional, such as a lawyer, doctor, etc. Businesses that offer investment advice or sell firearms need federal business licenses.

For more information, contact the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality at (800) 452-4011; OSHA at (503) 378-3272 or (800) 922-2689 within Oregon; or the State Fire Marshal at (503) 373-1540.

For information on Oregon taxes, contact the Oregon Department of Revenue, (503) 378-4988 or visit http://www.irs.gov.