The City of Eureka has created a business toolkit in partnership with the North Coast Small Business Development Center (SBDC) to help guide new businesses through the City's departments. The toolkit can be navigated within the City's website, or can be downloaded as a PDF. Please give us feedback on the document so it can continue to meet the needs of our diverse business community!
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Plan for Location & Work-space Needs
Fulfill Business License and Permit Requirements
A business plan will help you clarify your business goals and identify action steps for achieving those goals. If you're missing important details regarding your business, drafting your plan will make those "trouble spots" obvious and will make it easier to reach out for targeted assistance. A business plan is also important for investors, who will typically ask to see realistic projections for a project’s timeline and costs.
Requirements and safety codes can greatly affect your business in a wide variety of ways, from how a space is used to how equipment is installed. Before deciding on a location, it is incredibly important to have a thorough understanding of how and when your space will be used. We recommend making a list of everything you will be doing in the space and calling the Economic Development or Planning Department to make sure you have a full understanding of the regulations outlined in the Eureka Municipal Code. This will help you identify what type of space you’ll need, as well as help you think through special inspections of permits you’ll need to do business. Are you a small office-based startup? If so, consider using a local co-work space!
Completing these steps involves time and money. Help from legal professionals and business consultants may help you stay on track and within budget.
Before you purchase equipment (especially pre-owned equipment), be sure to identify where you might need special permits or inspections. As a general rule, equipment that needs to be installed (bolted to ceiling, floor, or wall), emits fumes or smoke, makes noise, or discharges waste will require an inspection and/or permit by the Building Department.
Financing a new business can be challenging, especially for first-time entrepreneurs. Take stock of your savings, and investigate grants and small business loans offered by local, state, and federal agencies. Banks and credit unions—particularly local ones—are also worth looking into.
Eureka businesses thrive on collaboration and communication. Decide what channels fit your businesses and personality, and network for success.
Assures that buildings are built or improved in accordance with applicable building codes.
707.441.4155
BUSINESS SERVICES
Liaison between the Public, Media, Mayor, and Eureka City Council members. Maintains City records, oversees elections, and prepares and publishes City Council Agendas.
707.441.4144
BUSINESS SERVICES
Provides general management oversight and direction to all City Departments. Also provides administrative support to the City Council.
707.441.4144
BUSINESS SERVICES
Works to strengthen Eureka’s economy by recruiting new businesses as well as helping existing businesses operate successfully.
707.441.4209
BUSINESS SERVICES
Provides financial management and accounting services for all City of Eureka departments.
707.441.4120
BUSINESS SERVICES
Provides fire, rescue and emergency medical services within Eureka and the great Eureka area. This department also oversees Fire Prevention services to ensure building compliance with fire safety codes.
BUSINESS SERVICES
Oversees land and building development and use on private property.
707.441.4160
BUSINESS SERVICES
707.441.4060
BUSINESS SERVICES
Oversees the City’s public improvement projects and manages water resources, water treatment, streets, and code enforcement services.
707.441.4209
BUSINESS SERVICES