I’m thinking about starting up a small business in Bedford. What should my first step be?

Your first step should be to talk with the Zoning Enforcement Officer at the Code Enforcement Office. The Town of Bedford is divided into both residential and commercial districts. Within each district, there are uses that are allowed as-of-right while others may not be allowed at all and still some that are allowed only by Special Permit from the Zoning Board of Appeals. Before you sign a lease it is important to know if your business is compatible with the zoning district in which it would be located. Your future tenant space may also be located in the town's Historic District which has strict guidelines on the exterior appearance of your building; including signs.

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1. I’m thinking about starting up a small business in Bedford. What should my first step be?
2. I’m going to renovate my tenant space before I move in. What’s involved with that?
3. Can I do the work myself?
4. What if I like the space the way it is and don’t plan on doing any work except for painting?
5. I’m thinking about putting up a wall sign for my business. Do I need a permit before I put it up?
6. I want my sign to be illuminated. Are there any special requirements to do this?
7. I’m thinking about staying open 24hrs. Can my sign stay on all night?
8. Can I have any additional signage besides my wall sign?