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Location
14300 Oak Park Blvd.
Oak Park,
MI
48237
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Open a Business

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Open a Business

A women with large scissors cuts a ribbon in front of a business while a group stands around her.

Oak Park aims to make starting your business as clear and straightforward as possible. Whether you’re opening a storefront, launching a home‑based business or selecting a commercial space, this section guides you through each key step with the forms, checklists and resources you need.

Home‑Based Businesses

Most home‑based businesses can operate in Oak Park without registering with the city; no permit is required to get started. Before opening your home‑based business, review the City’s Zoning Ordinance to ensure your business complies with local standards to maintain the character and quality of our residential neighborhoods.

We encourage you to stay connected with our Economic Development team by signing up using our Home-Based Business Information Form. You will receive updates about business networking events, workshops and available business support resources that can help you grow.

As your business grows and you begin exploring opportunities for a brick‑and‑mortar location, our team is here to help you take the next step. When you’re ready, reach out and we will work with you to identify suitable spaces and find the right location within our community.

Sign up your home‑based business with the city:

Opening a New Business

The City of Oak Park provides its Business License Steps Guide, a detailed, step‑by‑step guide to help business owners navigate our business-license process, including zoning approval, permits, inspections, City Council approval, certificate issuance and annual renewal requirements. 

To open your business in Oak Park, follow the steps below. Start early and reach out to the staff in Municipal Services or Economic Development and Planning if you need help or have questions.

  • Zoning verification - Before you sign a lease, confirm your proposed use is permitted at that location. Zoning verification protects your investment and helps avoid delays.
  • Building code compliance (change of occupancy and use) - Before moving forward with permits, verify with the Building Department whether your business will require a change of occupancy or use under building codes. Early in the process, this step ensures the space meets code requirements and identifies upgrades or modifications needed.
  • Permits and approvals - Know when you need building permits, plan review, signage permits or a certificate of occupancy, and how to schedule required inspections.
  • Apply for a business license - After confirming your zoning, the next step is to apply for a business license with the City of Oak Park. Complete the  business-license-application-and-checklist.pdf , provide a clear description of your business operations and submit all required documents.

Please note that business licenses in the City of Oak Park are issued on an annual basis and expire at the end of each calendar year, requiring renewal to remain in compliance.

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

We would love to help you celebrate your new beginning in Oak Park. A ribbon-cutting ceremony is a wonderful way to introduce your business to the community, meet city leaders and create a memorable moment for your customers, friends and family.

To give our team enough time to coordinate with city leadership and help promote your special day, complete and return the Ribbon Cutting Request Form at least three weeks in advance.