Business Information by Type

Where can I open a retail store in Boulder?  What is needed to open a restaurant?  Can I run my business out of my home?  Here’s some basic information by business type to get started.

Retail Stores

In general, retail stores are allowed in certain commercial zoning districts.  Accessory retail sales (up to 15 percent of the floor area) are allowed in non-residential zones for products that are directly related to the primary use (e.g. retail sales of a product manufactured on that site or by that business).

Restaurants

Restaurants are allowed in certain commercial zoning districts.  In some areas near downtown and on University Hill, use review approval is required (this public process requires an application, fee, and neighborhood meeting).  All restaurants require review and approval by the Boulder County Health Department. If the restaurant will serve liquor, a liquor license is needed.

 Offices

Boulder’s zoning code defines several different types of “offices,” from professional offices (like attorneys and architects) to administrative offices (which only support manufacturing uses). Email a This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it in the city's Planning and Development Services Center to determine the best areas of Boulder for your office.

 Industrial/Manufacturing

Boulder businesses make natural foods, lasers, computer software, satellites – even athletic clothes made of coconut shells!  Companies which are manufacturing, doing research and development, and warehousing are generally well-suited for Boulder’s industrial zoning districts.  Business zoning districts are also suited for certain high technology and computer software udevelopment companies.  Email a This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it in the city's Planning and Development Services Center to determine the best areas of Boulder for your business.

Medical Marijuana Businesses

The Council adopted a "wellness model" for medical marijuana businesses that conduct retail sales.  The locations for different types of medical marijuana businesses are in Chapter 6-14 of the Boulder Revised Code. There are guidelines for location of medical marijuana businesses, and no business, defined as more than six plants and two ounces of usable medical marijuana, may be located in a residential zone or a residence.  A medical marijuana business license from the city is required to operate any medical marijuana business. 

The city has created a Medical Marijuana Business Resource Center including FAQs for which you can subscribe to a web feed, medical marijuana business license application forms and instructions, and an address to submit any questions about medical marijuana to city staff.

Last Updated on Wednesday, 20 February 2013 14:08