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Updated: Sep 9, 2021
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The City of Birmingham aims to assist prospective business owners in opening their business in our community. While there is information available on the website, we encourage you to contact City staff members early in the process to ensure the most efficient use of your time and to discuss permit and approval requirements. If you have questions at any point in the process, please contact the appropriate City Department for additional information.
For information regarding new construction, building renovations, and all construction-related permits, or to learn about the construction and renovation review process please contact the Community Development Department at 248.530.1850.
For businesses considering a location within the Birmingham Shopping District, please call 248.530.1250 for assistance with identifying potential locations and demographic and retail information.
Every merchant, before opening and/or operating in the city or before advertising items for sale, must obtain an Initial Merchants License at www.bhamgov.org/formsandpayments. For more information, contact the City Clerk's office at 248.530.1880.
Additional requirements, such as special land use permits, may exist for certain types of businesses, such as restaurants serving alcohol, auto repair facilities, or home-based businesses. Please refer to the Zoning Ordinance or contact the Community Development Department at 248.530.1850 for additional details.
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