Confirm your business type is a permitted use in the zoning districtCriticalCheck the local zoning ordinance's use table for your specific business type. Some uses are permitted by right, others require conditional use permits (CUPs), and some are prohibited.
Determine if a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) is requiredCriticalCUPs require public hearings and board approval. Process takes 2-6 months and costs $500-$5,000+ in application fees. Approval is not guaranteed.
Verify the previous tenant's use matches your intended useIf the space was used for a different business type, a change of use may trigger additional code compliance requirements including fire, ADA, and building upgrades.
Check for any use-specific restrictions (hours, noise, deliveries)Zoning ordinances may restrict operating hours, limit noise levels, regulate delivery times, or require buffers from residential zones.
Research if a home occupation permit applies for home-based businessesHome-based businesses in residential zones typically face strict limitations on employees, signage, customer visits, and inventory storage.

Calculate minimum parking requirements for your use type and sizeCriticalParking ratios vary by use: retail (4-5 spaces per 1,000 sf), office (3-4 per 1,000 sf), restaurant (10-15 per 1,000 sf). Non-compliance can block permits.
Verify ADA-compliant accessible parking spacesADA requires accessible spaces based on total parking count. At least one van-accessible space is required. Existing non-compliant parking may need upgrading when you change use.
Check for shared parking agreements if on-site parking is insufficientSome jurisdictions allow shared parking with neighboring properties during different peak hours. Agreements must typically be recorded.
Review loading zone and delivery access requirementsMany commercial uses require dedicated loading areas. Check size, location, and screening requirements in the zoning code.

Review the sign ordinance for your zoning districtSign codes regulate type, size, height, illumination, and number of signs. Freestanding signs, wall signs, and window signs each have separate rules.
Check if a sign permit is required and its costMost jurisdictions require sign permits ($50-$500+). Some also require electrical permits for illuminated signs.
Verify any prohibited sign types in your areaCommon prohibitions: flashing signs, animated signs, roof signs, portable signs, and signs in the right-of-way. Digital signs face additional restrictions.

Determine occupancy type and maximum occupancy loadCriticalBuilding code occupancy classification affects fire protection, exits, ventilation, and restroom requirements. Changing occupancy type triggers compliance upgrades.
Verify ADA compliance for accessibility (entrances, restrooms, paths)CriticalThe ADA applies to all places of public accommodation. Barrier removal is required in existing buildings when readily achievable. New construction must be fully compliant.
Check fire code requirements (sprinklers, alarms, exits, extinguishers)Fire code requirements depend on occupancy type and size. Retrofit sprinkler installation can cost $2-$7 per square foot.
Review health department requirements if operating a food businessRestaurants, cafes, and food production facilities need health department approval, commercial kitchen specs, grease traps, and regular inspections.

Check if an environmental impact assessment is requiredLarge commercial projects or those near sensitive areas may require environmental review under NEPA (federal) or state environmental policy acts.
Determine if impact fees or development fees applyMany jurisdictions charge impact fees for transportation, schools, parks, and utilities. These can add $5,000-$50,000+ to project costs.
Review stormwater management requirements for the siteCommercial development typically requires stormwater management plans, detention basins, or permeable surfaces. Costs vary by site conditions.

Commercial Zoning Due Diligence Checklist