Small Business Liaison

Step 1.Develop a Business Plan:

The Executive Summary, Products & Services, Market Competition, Operations, Management Team, Employees, Financial Data, Supporting Documentation, Future Plans are important elements.

Step 2.Choose a Business Structure:

Choose the legal structure of your company and think about the ramifications for your finances. Sole proprietorship, partnership, corporations, and limited liability companies are the four most popular types.

Step 3.Consider Financing Options:

Research financing options and incentives to decide which is right for your business. contact Renton Economic Development Division for more information on incentives and other financing options at thrive@rentonwa.gov or 425-430-6591.

Step 4.Get Coverage:

Before registering a business, it is a good idea to contact an insurance agent, an attorney, and an accountant for advice. 

Step 5.Get Federal Employer Tax Identification Number (EIN): 

Federal tax identification number acts as a social security number for businesses and is required for all legal entities. 

Step 6.Obtain a Washington State UBI and Business License from the City of Renton:

Generally, any business operating in or engaging in business within the City of Renton limits will be required to obtain a business license. Before applying for your Renton business license, you must have a Uniform Business Identification number (UBI) from the Washington State Department of Revenue or 360-705-6741. Then submit your Renton Business applications online through FileLocal. 

Step 7.Explore Options for a Business Location:

Finding the right property is critical. Our Economic Development Team can provide reports of available properties, resources for business incubation and shared office options. Contact thrive@rentonwa.gov or 425-430-6591.

Step 8.Obtain Proper Permitting and Zoning Approvals:

The Renton Building Division offers free consultations for businesses to determine what they need before they develop, purchase, or sign a lease on a property: the Pre-application and the virtual permit meeting. For more information visit Permit Services or contact them at permittech@rentonwa.gov or 425-430-7215.

Step 9.Prepare for Employees:

Find out about worker's compensation, wage and hiring practices, and taxes. Receive assistance with hiring and training, remember to look into insurance requirements that may apply to your business.

Step 10.Next Stop - Success: Send out invitations for your grand opening! 

Step 1.Do I need a permit?

A permit is required if you plan to: construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish, convert, replace, install, or change the occupancy of a building structure, or electric, gas, mechanical or plumbing system, and is regulated by the Construction Codes and the Construction Administrative Code. 

If you are unsure of whether you need a building permit or not, contact Permit Services at permittech@rentonwa.gov or 425-430-7215.

Step 2.Permits available online: 

The following are permits available online on the city's online permit portal (Civic Access Self-Service Portal (CASSP)):

• Commercial Electrical
• Commercial Plumbing
• Commercial Mechanical

If you hire a contractor, they must have a City of Renton Business License and the appropriate Washington State Labor & Industries certification. 

Step 3.All Other Permit Submittal Requirements/Applications

The following are submittal requirements and applications for possible other permits that you may need if you are making changes to the building that your business will be occupying.

• Commercial Interior Remodel Submittal Requirements  |  Commercial Building Permit Application
• Temporary Sign Permit Submittal Requirements  |  Temporary Sign Permit Application
• Permanent Sign Permit Submittal Requirements  |  Permanent Sign Permit Application
• Demolition Permit Application
• Fire Alarm Permit Application
• Fire Sprinkler Permit Application

Your application and the required documents must be submitted using a secure file share link provided by CED Permit staff. 

When you are ready to submit your application, email: permittech@rentonwa.gov with the following information:

• Application Type
• Address of Proposed Work
• Project Name

A secure file share link will be created for you to upload your application and plans/documents. Submittals will be reviewed for completeness by Permit Staff within 5 business days of your submittal.

If you hire a contractor, they must have a City of Renton Business License and the appropriate Washington State Labor & Industries certification.

Step 4.Request a Preapplication Meeting

What is a pre-application meeting?  It's a no cost evaluation to help residents, businesses, and developers determine the feasibility of a project prior to submitting a formal Land Use Application. The pre-application process offers detailed information on zoning requirements, permitting processes, timelines, fees and more.

Preapplication meetings can be requested online through the City's Civic Access Self-Service Portal (CASSP).

Step 5.Schedule a Virtual Meeting

Schedule a free 15-minute meeting with City of Renton Permit Center staff from the Planning, Development Engineering, and Building teams. Meetings can be held over the phone or using video conferencing on your computer.

Step 1.Think Tanks

Renton Empowerment Think Tank

The Renton Empowerment Think Tank is a dynamic platform for local entrepreneurs, business leaders, and community members to collaborate, share insights, and drive innovation. Each session focuses on the unique challenges and opportunities within Renton’s business districts, fostering meaningful discussions and actionable solutions.

Step 2.Startup & Small Business CoWorking