New Business Checklist

1. Contact the Arvada Economic Development Association (AEDA):

Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or starting your first business, we can offer you personalized support throughout your business journey. Let us assist you as you navigate the processes below, if you need help finding a location for your business, or if you want to learn more about resources available to you.

2. Confirm your zoning and planning requirements:

All businesses, including home-based businesses, should confirm that the zoning of your intended location is appropriate for your business. You can see your zoning by searching your address at https://www.arvadaco.gov/702/Maps-and-Property-Search however, to ensure your use is allowed, please contact Planning at 720-898-7435 or [email protected]. We recommend doing this before signing any leases or contracts. You can typically expect a response within 24 business hours.

Heads up! If you are planning extensive or exterior construction, need special allowances for your use, or plan to locate in the Olde Town Historic District, you will likely need additional approvals from the Planning Division, which could take additional time and require architect or engineer-stamped plans.
Heads up! The City of Arvada requires licensed contractors for nearly all construction and signage projects. Learn more and have your contractors register

3. Confirm your Building permit and Certificate of Occupancy requirements:

Contact the Building Division at 720-898-7620 or [email protected] about your plans for moving in/remodeling your space. Please work with the Building Division early to obtain the appropriate approvals. Permit approval can take anywhere from 5 business days- 6+ weeks. The Building Division encourages new businesses to set up a meeting to discuss new businesses and proposed improvements before submitting for a building permit.

Heads up! Most businesses moving into a new space will need to submit building floor plans, demonstrate compliance with the adopted building codes, and receive an approved life safety inspection from the Fire Department and the Building Division to obtain their business license.
Heads up! You will need to meet additional requirements if your building requires tenant improvements, has a change of use, or a change of occupancy.
Heads up! Most remodeling work (adding partition walls, upgrading plumbing/appliances, adding racking systems for storage) will require permits.

4. Consider additional permits or licenses you may need to open and operate:

Common examples include liquor licenses , sign permits, special event permits, and health-related licenses (issued through either Jefferson or Adams County). Reach out to the City Clerks Office for assistance at 720-898-7546 or [email protected]

5. Schedule building and fire inspections (if applicable):

Once you have paid all permit fees and the permit status is "Issued," inspections can be scheduled. For more instructions, see the Arvada Building Department website.

6. Apply for a business license:

All businesses in Arvada are required to obtain a business license. This is free of charge for most businesses and should be completed at least three weeks prior to your start date. If you are planning work that requires a permit and haven’t yet completed the steps above, you will need to anticipate additional time before opening. Be prepared to provide information about your business location for approval by the Building Department.

7. Register your business with the State:

All businesses will need to register with the The Colorado Secretary of State. Businesses with employees will need to register with the Colorado Department of Labor & Employment. Learn more about State requirements. You can complete these and other requirements through https://mybiz.colorado.gov/intro.

8. Set up utilities:

See the Arvada Utilities Department website for more information on setting up energy, water, sewer, trash, internet/cable, and other utility services in Arvada.

9. Prepare for emergencies:

10. Open for business:

Celebrate your success and continue to seek out support on your journey.

A few of our favorite tips for new businesses are:
The City of Arvada hosts a monthly free tax class, the Visitors Center has an event calendar to promote your milestones, and the Greater Arvada Chamber of Commerce hosts official Ribbon Cuttings for members.

Heads up! Some businesses will need regular renewals of permits and licenses. Some of to be aware of are fire, food trucks, short-term rentals, and health licenses.

11. Keep in touch:

Follow us on social media and look out for our monthly newsletters for updates. Please reach out to the team at [email protected] anytime for a free business consultation to plan your launch, explore grant programs, discuss marketing opportunities, tap into educational resources, discuss financial supports, and more.

Important Contacts

Arvada Economic Development Association:
720-898-7010, [email protected]

Building:
720-898-7620
[email protected]

City Clerk’s Office:
720-898-7544
[email protected]

Planning:
720-898-7435
[email protected]

Revenue:
720-898-7100
[email protected]