Business Startup Guide – Starting a Business in Troy
Congratulations on your decision to open a business in the City of Troy! This guide will guide you through the first steps in creating your new business in Troy, Alabama. Please note that this is just a guide and may not and is not intended to encompass all rules, regulations, codes, and steps to creating a new business.
Plan your Business
Opening a business is a multi-step process that, without proper planning, can often be complex and costly. Before you launch, it is a good idea to thoroughly research several aspects of your business and create a business plan. Your business plan is the essential first step to put your business on the path to success. Business plans usually project about three to five years ahead. They help people who are starting a business think about how much money the business will need to get going and be sustainable.
Find a Business Location
Determine a location for your business.
Determine the Zoning District
Contact the City of Troy Panning Department before you lease or purchase property. You must verify that your business type and operation is allowed within the designated zoning district in which you wish to do business. When selecting a site, it is important to make sure the zoning is appropriate for your type of business and the site meets your business needs in terms of location, size, access, parking, etc.
Will you start the business in your home or another space? This is one of the most important considerations when starting a business. There are additional rules and regulations for a home occupation that might impact your business. Not all businesses are allowed as a home occupation.
Once you have a particular location in mind, you need to determine what zoning district the property is located in. You can find this out by looking up the address on the zoning map located on the City of Troy Panning Department’s webpage at www.troyal.gov/planning, calling the City of Troy Planning Department at 334.670.6058, or emailing the City of Troy Planning Department. Various zones allow, permit on appeal, and prohibit different uses - once you know the zone, you can check the District Regulations in the Zoning Ordinance to find out if your business is allowed in a particular zone or contact the City of Troy Panning Department. Be sure to also look at the section referenced for that use to ensure no use-specific conditions apply that might otherwise prevent your proposal. Call or email the City of Troy Panning Department to verify zoning use before signing a lease or buying a property at your desired business location.
The City of Troy's Zoning Ordinance also regulates the types and sizes of permanent and temporary signs allowed within city limits. Please make sure your proposed signage meets the Sign Regulations and to get the appropriate approvals and permits before purchasing and installing your signage.
Determine Permitting Requirements
If you will be constructing a new building, remodeling an existing building, or renovating a site, you will likely need to apply for site plan approval through eh Planning Department for all new construction and/or a building permit for all construction and remodeling. All work must conform to the current Zoning Ordinance, building codes, and meet ADA standards. You may need to hire a licensed architect, engineer, and/or contractor with expertise in these areas. If the building will undergo a change a use, you will likely need to obtain a building permit and/or a certificate of occupancy. If you have questions about the permitting process in Troy, please contact the City's Building Department.
A building inspection may be required prior to opening your business. If building and trade permits (electrical, mechanical, plumbing) are required, final approved inspections will be required in advance of obtaining your Certificate of Occupancy. For questions about building permits and inspections, please contact the City's Building Department at 334.566.0177.
Other permits and inspections may be required, such as through the County Health Department and the City of Troy Fire Department, prior to opening day.
Choose a Business Name & Setup the Business
Search for business name availability and reserve your name on the Secretary of State’s website at https://www.sos.alabama.gov/business-services.
Identify if you are you a sole proprietorship, general partnership, limited partnership, limited Liability Corporation (LLC), or Corporation. The different types of business structures have different legal and tax implications. To learn everything that you need to know about this before deciding on your business form, you may need to contact an attorney and/or a tax accountant. Draft and execute appropriate legal business documents. Visit the Secretary of State’s website at www.sos.alabama.gov to register your business.
Apply for your Federal Tax ID Number/Employer Identification Number
Visit the IRS website to apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) online.
Apply for your AL Tax Registration Number
Visit the Alabama Department of Revenue’s website to apply for a AL Tax Registration Number.
Check for & Apply for Other Additional Certifications and Licenses
Your business may need additional certifications or licenses from the State or other entities depending on type of business. The following list is not all inclusive: Pike County license, food permit through the Pike County Health Department, ABC license, State auto dealer license, State contractor’s license, and/or other State professional license.
Apply for & Obtain a City of Troy Business License
A current City of Troy business license is required to conduct business within the City of Troy and its Police Jurisdiction. The Municipal Business License Application can be found HERE.
Fees are based on a Fee Schedule which can be found HERE, calling the City of Troy’s Revenue Officer at 334.566.0177, or emailing the City of Troy’s Revenue Officer. The City of Troy’s Revenue Officer will work with you to determine your annual fee.
Open your Business, Stay Connected & Grow
Once these steps are completed and all of your final approvals are signed, you are ready to open for business. We wish you the best of luck on your new endeavor.