255 Capitol St. NE, Ste 151
Salem  Oregon 97310-1327
503 986 2200

Corporation Division

Office Hours: Monday–Friday | 8am–5pm
 
 
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Check State License Requirements - Business Information Center

License Requirements
The State of Oregon does not have a general business license. However, many occupations and business activities require special licenses, permits, or certifications from state agencies or boards. The State of Oregon now offers a searchable online License Directory, a comprehensive directory of over 1,100 licenses, permits, and certifications. In additions, the Business Information Center’s Business Wizard provides information on state and local license requirements based on business activity, and location. These online services are available at:

      License Directory
      http://licenseinfo.oregon.gov

      Business Wizard
      http://www.filinginorego.com/businesswizard

Check Local License Requirements

Local Requirements
Cities and counties may require a license for businesses operating within their jurisdictions. If your business is located within the city limits, check with your city offices to see if a local business license is required. If there is no specific listing for business licenses in your directory, the city hall information number is an appropriate initial contact. Licensing offices for the following cities are:

Portland Bureau of Licenses      503-823-5157
111 SW Columbia St., Ste. 600
Portland, OR 97201-5840
www.pdxbl.org

Salem Permit Application Center      503-588-6256
555 Liberty Street SE, Room 320
Salem, OR 97301

Eugene Building and Permit Services      541-682-5379
99 W 10th Avenue, Suite 240
Eugene, OR 97401

City of Medford Finance Department      541-774-2030
411 W 8th Street
Medford, OR 97501

To check on business license requirements at the county level, contact your county administrative offices. The county planning department or county commissioner's office is an appropriate first contact.

Check Zoning for Business Location

Zoning Requirements
Be sure the location you choose for your business is properly zoned for your business activity. Other factors to consider include regulations on business signs and parking at the location.

If you are planning to operate a business from your home, you will need to determine if there are restrictions on home-based businesses in your area. Your local city or county planning offices will be able to provide you with this information.