Getting Started

To help you get started, here are a few specific items every business owner should consider:
  • Building Permit

    If you will be undertaking any construction or modifications of an existing building, you will likely require a Building Permit from the Building Department. Signs also required a Sign Permit from the Building Department.

  • Business Certificate

    Most business owners need a Business Certificate, or Doing Business As (d/b/a) to open a commercial bank account and helps prevent others from using your business name. The application form is available at the Town Clerk’s Office and requires the signature of the Building Commissioner prior to the Town Clerk’s issuance of the certificate.

  • General Bylaws

    Review requirements relevant to some businesses, such as the sale of alcoholic beverages; food establishments; development projects, including earth removal; hazardous materials storage; farming; and fees.

  • Zoning Bylaw

    Consult the Building Commissioner and Town Planner to make sure that your business/property meets applicable zoning requirements for your proposal.

  • Home-Based Business

    Consult with the Building Commissioner to determine if permitting is required.

  • Accessibility Requirements

    Consider special requirements for persons with disabilities (e.g., blind, deaf, mobility impaired, etc.). The Building Department can provide guidance about compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Massachusetts Architectural Access Board (AAB) regulations.

  • Legal Structure

    Whether incorporating or forming a limited partnership, the MA Corporations Division requires an excise tax and filing fee. Sole proprietors do not require registration, but you should conduct a name check with the MA Secretary of the Commonwealth.

  • Wetlands Protection Act (WPA)

    State regulations protect wetland area resources such as lakes, bordering vegetated wetlands, and streams. If you will be undertaking any construction or exterior modifications and have any wetland resource areas in proximity, you may require a Determination of Applicability or Order of Conditions from the Conservation Commission.

  • Westford Non-Zoning Wetlands Bylaw

    Local regulations bolster the state’s WPA and create additional requirements for review. If you will be undertaking any construction or exterior modifications and have any wetland resource areas in proximity, you may require a Determination of Applicability or Order of Conditions from the Conservation Commission.