New Business Guide - City of Huntington
Welcome!
On behalf of the City of Huntington, we heartily welcome you and your business to our community. We take great pride in our corporate citizens who offer a wide range of business and professional services to our residents and the community at large. The City seeks to help make your operations here both pleasant and successful.
This guide presents important information, contacts and resources for prospective business owners. Use the sections below as a quick reference to learn more about zoning, permits and certificates applicable to businesses operating in the City of Huntington. We are excited you have chosen to do business here!
Related: If you are looking for resources to help you create a business plan, register your business name or complete other important steps in starting a successful business in Huntington, please click here.
Questions? Please call us at (260) 356-5146 and let us know how we can help!
Overview
The following information identifies key issues and requirements that you should be aware of so that you do not encounter any unnecessary delays in opening your business. It is most important that you determine whether your business will meet City code requirements and existing ordinances. This helps to protect your business interests and property values and ensure the health, safety and quality of life for both your customers and employees. In that regard, it is highly recommended that you consult the Department as your business plan is being developed. Staff from the Department will meet with you to review your plans and advise you of applicable requirements to help ensure that your transition is a smooth one.
Things to Know Before You Open
Starting a new business or locating one in the City of Huntington requires some planning to ensure that your start-up will proceed smoothly. To begin the process, you should contact Community Development & Redevelopment to: Verify that the zoning of your property is appropriate for your business type and determine if any special approvals may apply. Inquire about any necessary permits that may be required for changes you plan on making to your location. Typical permitted activity may include: remodeling (including non-structural), new construction, electrical & plumbing work, site work, signage, fencing and more. Obtain a Certificate of Occupancy. Understand local health standards that may apply to your project to protect your employees and customers.
Zoning
Land uses in a given zoning district are classified under the zoning code as “permitted uses” or “special exceptions.” If a business is identified as a “permitted use,” then it may be established so long as it meets other established minimum requirements, such as parking. A business identified as a “special exception” will require approval from the Board of Zoning Appeals by submitting an application to the Department. If your lender requires a Zoning Compliance Letter, please request one from the Department.
Permits
If you plan on making physical alterations to a site, permits may be required depending upon the type of construction activity. Please consult the Department before any construction or remodeling. Failure to obtain permits or approvals may result in delays, required changes for code compliance or additional fees.
Certificate of Occupancy
Prior to opening to the public, all businesses and new tenants are required by the City to obtain a Certificate of Occupancy by scheduling an inspection with the Department at no charge. Inspectors will visit your location to ensure that applicable building, fire, zoning and health (if applicable) requirements are met. The health inspector is typically only involved in businesses that offer food and beverages. Additional copies are available to provide to your insurance company or lender at no charge.
Here to Serve You
We cannot possibly cover all areas of concern regarding a new business in the City on this webpage. There may be questions that you have in addition to what is included here. If there are any ways in which we can help you succeed or additional questions that you may have, please contact us at (260) 356-5146.
Useful City Contacts
CITY BUILDING, 300 CHERRY ST.
Mayor’s Office:
(260) 356-1400 ext. 2000
Clerk-Treasurer’s Office:
(260) 356-1400 ext. 2016
Downtown parking permits and tickets
Engineering Services:
(260) 356-1400 ext. 2020
Public infrastructure & public works projects
Fire Department:
(260) 356-3620
Fire inspections
Police Department:
(260) 356-2308
City Services Department:
(260) 356-4720
Streets, sanitation, parks & recreation
Water & Sewer Billing:
(260) 356-3220
Service start/stop, payments & billing questions
COURTHOUSE ANNEX, 1330 S. JEFFERSON ST.
Department of Health:
(260) 358-4831
Food permits & health inspections
Other Business Start-Up Information & Assistance
A lot goes into starting a business, and it can become overwhelming. While the City of Huntington does NOT provide business start-up counseling, it does serve as a hub for important information that can help you navigate the complex business start-up process. The City of Huntington cannot provide legal advice. The following agencies and resources are available to assist with all of your business questions. Please contact:
Huntington County Chamber of Commerce: (260) 356-5300SCORE – Free business mentoring services.
Indiana Small Business Development
Huntington County Economic Development: (260) 356-5688
Huntington County Visitor & Convention Bureau: (260) 359-8687
Northeast Indiana Regional Partnership
State of Indiana Business Resources
General Requirements for Indiana Businesses