Business Starter Kit
Use this kit as a general overview of what is required to open a business in Montgomery County, Maryland.
You have taken the basic steps to start your business the following additonal considerations will help you get your business up and running.
Zoning
An important step in determining where to locate a business is understanding how zoning regulates what activities are allowed in various parts of the county as well as the use and occupancy that has been approved for a specific location. In addition to understanding the regulations that apply to commercial properties, review regulations that apply to home-based businesses as well.
Be sure to review County laws intended to protect the residential nature of our neighborhoods.
Montgomery County and jurisdictions throughout the country use zoning as part of an overall approach to strategically regulating land use. The zoning code is used to regulate the form (size, shape height and mass) of a building and the uses that are allowed on the property.
Montgomery County Planners have rewritten the County's zoning code and have modernized zoning regulations. They have created a new interactive digital zoning map to look up zoning and property information.
Construction
Commercial New Construction
Commercial Change of Use
Commercial Use & Occupancy
Sign Permits
Montgomery County and ADA Compliance
Depending on your location, you may fall under one of several municipalities in Montgomery County that have their own planning and zoning requirements:
- City of Gaithersburg
- City of Rockville
- City of Takoma Park
- Learn more about Montgomery County Municipalities and Special Taxing Districts and their requirements.
Utilities
- Electricity
- BG&E Construction & Remodeling, New Business Services 1-800-233-1854
- First Energy/Potomac Edison Customer Service: 1-800-686-0011
-
PEPCO Business Solutions 301-670-8700
- ​Gas
- Washington Gas Customer Service 703-750-1000
Consumers have choices for electric and gas utility services. You may obtain a complete list of these companies from the Maryland Public Service Commission’s utility listing.
- Water and Sewer Service
- Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission Customer Service 301-206-4001
It is a good idea to schedule a preliminary design consultation with the Department of Permitting Services once you have a general idea of what your project will entail.
Licenses
Many businesses will obtain a business license from the Montgomery County Circuit Court
Business Licenses in Montgomery County
Business License Application
Business License Application (Spanish)
Displaying a License
License Renewal
State of Maryland Business Licenses
Montgomery County also issues licenses and permits for certain types of businesses and occupations.
Management Practices
Montgomery County regulates certain employer-employee practices. Please be sure you are aware of the requirements as they apply to your business.
Employee Certifications
Depending on the type of business, you or your employees may require certification or licensing.
Talent Attraction
Ongoing Regulations
Local businesses may be subject to ongoing regulatory requirements enforced by Montgomery County departments and agencies. Take a few minutes to familarize yourself with the requirements that apply to your business.
