Doing Business in Bellingham

The City of Bellingham is committed to supporting and retaining our business community, and enhancing economic development. The Office of Business Relations and Economic Development (BRED) staff are available to assist you with your business-related questions and direct you to community resources to support your business.

Please contact BRED staff at: business@cob.org or 360-778-8105. We look forward to talking with you.

The information provided below will help you get started, whether you are starting a new business or looking for assistance for an existing business.

Opening a Business in Bellingham

STEP 1: Develop a business plan

Local Resources:
Center for Economic Vitality. Call 360.733.4014 to schedule a no-cost appointment with a business strategist.
SCORE. Free Small Business Counseling - call 360-685-4259.

State Resource: www.access.wa.gov/business
Federal Resource: www.business.gov

STEP 2: Find a location

About Bellingham - everything you want to know about our community
Local real estate agents: Google "Bellingham Commercial Real Estate Agents" or see the Northwest Economic Council's list of featured Whatcom County properties.
Bellingham Commercial Areas (Bellingham 2008 and 2009 Employment Lands Report)
Population and Demographic Information

STEP 3: Zoning and Permits

Make sure that your business is allowed in the location you have chosen and see what permits may be required.

STEP 4: Business License and Registration

All individuals and firms doing business in Bellingham, whether located inside or outside the City limits, must be registered with the City's Finance Department. The State Department of Revenue also has information about state licensing fees and any additional licenses or registrations required. :

Business Registration Application (PDF)
Business and Occupation Taxes
Registered Businesses in Bellingham
State Business Registration: Prior to registering with the City, prospective business owners or operators should visit the State Department of Revenue website for information regarding state taxes and Master Business Licenses. You will be assigned a Unified Business Identifier (UBI) number.