• You will need to register any new business with the state of Oregon.  Business Oregon has a great website that provides a step by step guide to assist you in deciding what types of licenses and registrations may be required.  Again, check with your legal and financial adviser prior to selecting which type of business to form (limited liability company, sole proprietor, S-Corp, C-Corp, etc.).

• Depending on the business type, you may be able to work out of your house or you may need to find office, retail or industrial space for your proposed business.  Before you sign a lease - we can't stress that enough - make sure that you contact the City's Community & Economic Development Department at (503) 769-2998 to make sure that your proposed use is permitted in the proposed location and to determine if any land use permits may be required.

• If the space you intend to occupy was previously used for a different classification of use (was previously retail and you will have an office), then a Change of Use Permit will be required from the Planning and Development Office.  The Planning and Development Director will determine whether the new use is permitted by the City's Zoning and if the minimum off-street parking requirement is met.  A copy of the Change of Use application form may be downloaded from the link at the bottom of this page.

• The City of Stayton does not require a general business license, however there are certain business activities that do require a license from the City.  The following types of businesses require a license from the City:  carnivals, amusement parks, junk dealers, mobile food units (food trucks), and marijuana establishments.  In addition, a solicitor's license is required for any business activity that travels from place to place, offering to sell or taking orders for any goods or services, including the distribution of advertising materials.  A copy of the license application form may be downloaded from the link at the bottom of this page.

• The City Code permits many types of businesses to be conducted in your home in residential zones, but there are restrictions and standards to assure that impacts on your neighbors are minimized.  If you plan to operate a small business out of your home please review the City's Home Occupation standards at the bottom of the page to assure that you will meet the City's standards.

The Planning and Development Department maintains a list of vacant commercial and industrial properties, both available buildings and shop spaces as well as vacant land zoned for business use.  While there is no guarantee that our list is complete and up to date, every effort is taken to keep it as up to date as feasible.  Click on the link below for the most recent list.

There are a number of assistance resources available to small business owners or potential small business owners in Stayton.  Click the link below to learn more about support services.

Have questions about City regulations?  Call the Planning and Development Department at 503-769-2998 or email the Community & Economic Development Director.