Permitting Guide
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Getting Started
Review the Local Requirements
Learn the basics of where you can do business, building requirements, parking, and permitting – check out the FAQs below or read our full permitting guide here.
Find a Property for your Business
Take a look at the available commercial properties in North Andover!
2.
Set Up Shop
Meet with Town Staff
Now that you have a location and type of business in mind, contact the appropriate town staff for detailed information on permitting and local regulations.
File a Business Certificate
Every business needs to file a business certificate with the town to operate. Read more in the FAQs below or in the full business permitting guide.
Get Permitted
Some business types, work in sensitive areas, or changes to a property may require permits from the Planning Board and Conservation Commission. Permits from the Health Department and Building Department can easily be applied for in our Viewpoint Permit Portal.
Open the Doors
Final Inspections
Contact the Building Department for information on a final inspection and Certificate of Occupancy or review checklists to prepare. After inspections, but before cutting the ribbon on your new business, apply for a Certificate of Occupancy on OpenGov.
Reach out to Business Support Organizations
Check out our business resources page to learn more about the organizations and agencies in the area that can help your business grow.
Stay in Touch
Town staff are here to help; let us know how we did. Continued engagement from valued members of the business community is very helpful for advancing community and economic development strategies. We’re glad you chose North Andover and we look forward to working with you.
Department
Planning Department
North Andover, MA 01845
Reasons to Contact
- Subdivisions
- Site Plan Review
- Special Permits for the Planning Board
Department of Public Works
384 Osgood Street
North Andover, MA 01845
- Curb cuts
- Drainage
- Roads
- Sanitation Facilities
- Stormwater Drainage
- Water & Sewer Connections
FAQs on Permitting in North Andover
What is a Business Certificate?
A business certificate is the public record of the name and address of the owner(s) of a business, and is commonly referred to by the name “D.B.A.” (doing business as) or “Sole Proprietorship.” Its purpose is primarily for consumer protection and public information. Click here to learn more and apply for a business certificate.
Who must file a Business Certificate?
Any person conducting business in Massachusetts under any title other than the real name of the person conducting the business, whether individually or as a partnership, must obtain a Business Certificate.
A business certificate is not required if a corporation is doing business in its true corporate name, or if a partnership is doing business under any title which includes the true surname of any partner.
Businesses that file with the Secretary of State’s Office do not need to file with the Town.
How do I file or renew a Business Certificate?
Businesses can file a business certificate with the Town Clerk’s office at North Andover Town Hall. Business certificates are valid for four years. There is a fee for filing business certificates and for renewing every four years.
If you are using your residence as your business address, then you must first obtain a Certificate of Occupancy from the Building Department. This can be obtained provided that the owner filing for the business certificate is proven to be a resident at that address and meets the code requirements for a home business.
How can I find an appropriate location for my businesses?
To start, review the Zoning Use Table and Article 4: Buildings and Uses Permitted of the North Andover Zoning Bylaw. Building size and location on a lot are restricted by Dimensional Requirements. Also, Off-Street Parking Requirements are determined by building use and size.
Identify specific available properties in North Andover by clicking here. You may also contact the Director of Community and Economic Development for general inquiries about potential locations for your business.
If you are not certain whether the planned location for your business is permitted by zoning, feel free to contact the Town’s Building Department.
What if I want to put up a new sign or awning?
You need a Sign Permit from the Building Department.
What if I am remodeling an existing space or constructing a new space?
You need a Building Permit from the Building Department and may need a Special Permit from the Planning Board.
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