How to Open a Business
Choose a Location
Work with a commercial real
estate agent, to identify
locations that are available for
sale or lease. Some sites offer
financial benefits because of
their location.
For more information on industrial sites,
call the Camden City Industrial Development Corporation at (856) 225-8314
Check out the Zoning
Check for zoning restrictions at the
Municipal's Clerk Office
Room 105 City Hall
6th and Market Sts.
Camden,
NJ
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Helpful Resources
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- City Zone Ordinances
- Zoning Rezoning/Application
- Construction Permit Application
- Business License Application
We offer these files in a portable document format, or PDF in order to preserve the layout and make them easily printable. To view the print files, you need a program called Adobe Acrobat Reader, which most browsers already include. If you have trouble downloading the file, or if you would like to upgrade to Acrobat Reader 5.0, you can obtain the software for free from Adobe's web site.
- Maps of the City Enterprise and Empowerment Zones are available at the Div. of Economic Development in City Hall, Room 130
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Get Approval
If the location you've chosen requires zoning or re-zoning approval, you'll need to obtain an application from the Division of Planning in Room 420. To complete the application, you will need proof of ownership, a detailed floor plan, and an accurate drawing of the business sign. You will also need to pay the appropriate fee. If your application is approved, you will receive a zoning permit. If you've found a building, but plan to use it in a way that is not consistent with its original use, you may need to obtain approval from the Zoning Board of Adjustment (a process that can take up to three months).
Get you Construction Permit
Before you build, renovate, or change your property in any way, even before hanging a sign, you must obtain construction permit. After you have received zoning approval, go to The Building Bureau in Room 403 for an application. Submit the completed application, with two sets of signed and sealed architectural drawings that outline your plans. Once your application is approved, you will receive a permit to proceed with the work.
Follow Construction Guidelines
If the location you've chosen requires zoning or re-zoning approval, you'll need to obtain an application from the Division of Planning in Room 420. To complete the application, you will need proof of ownership, a detailed floor plan, and an accurate drawing of the business sign. You will also need to pay the appropriate fee. If your application is approved, you will receive a zoning permit. If you've found a building, but plan to use it in a way that is not consistent with its original use, you may need to obtain approval from the Zoning Board of Adjustment (a process that can take up to three months).
Certificate of Occupancy
A final inspection is conducted once all the work as been completed. If the results are satisfactory, the construction official issues are Certificate of Occupancy, which verifies the building is ready for business.
Get your Business License
You'll need to complete one final application and pay a fee to obtain a business license, which all businesses need to operate in Camden. Go to the Bureau of Licenses and Inspection in Room 107 to obtain an application. You'll need to bring with you the following: two passport photographs; a copy of a valid driver's license or other proof of identification, such as a birth certificate; a valid passport or alien certification. Your social security card and proof of ownership or lease of the property must also be submitted to obtain a permit. Additionally, if food will be made or sold at the place of business, a Health Certificate must also be issued. The certificate can be obtained through the Camden County Health Department by calling (856) 374-6041. All zoning approvals must be in place before any licenses can be issued.
CONGRATULATIONS, YOU'RE OPEN FOR BUSINESS!
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