The City of Bellingham has a long history of partnering with businesses, and offering the help and guidance they need to be successful. We’re here to help Bellingham – and the people and businesses within it – thrive.
Why Do Business in Bellingham?
Ideally located between two large urban areas – Vancouver, BC and Seattle, WA – Bellingham offers four higher-educational institutions, a myriad of business support agencies, redevelopment incentives, a supportive community and an unmatched lifestyle. Commercial and industrial opportunities stretch from our eclectic downtown to Port property along Bellingham Bay, to industrial property in the Irongate community, and beyond. Our community enjoys the natural beauty of Mt. Baker and the Salish Sea, and businesses benefit from having nearly 6 million customers and employees within a 90-mile radius.
Robust Incentives
Take advantage of tax reductions, expedited permitting, reduced fees and more! We offer special discounts and incentives for projects that reflect community goals, including: infill and other sustainable development, affordable housing and historic preservation.
- Sustainable development: Green building projects are eligible for technical support and expedited permitting. You can also get tax credits and free reductions for solar power installation.
- Urban villages: Get tax reductions and reduced fees for construction projects located in dense, mixed-use areas.
- Affordable housing: New housing developments with affordably-priced units can qualify for expedited permitting and fee reductions of up to 80%.
- Historic preservation: Projects that preserve and reuse historic buildings can qualify for a 10-year property tax reduction, among other incentives.
Learn more about our exclusive incentives.
Get Help from your City and Community
No matter your business stage or industry, we’re here to help. Beyond City resources, our community has a variety of organizations dedicated to help your business succeed, including the Small Business Development Center (SBDC), Sustainable Connections, SCORE and others. Check out our community business resources for more information, or give us a call and we can connect you with the right support network.
Find Your Business Property
Search for available business properties on the Whatcom Prospector website or check out the CityIQ map – this interactive map allows you to explore property boundaries, utilities, zoning and aerial photos and links to other resources like the Whatcom County Assessor.
Get Your Permit and Business Licensing
Our staff at the Permit Center is available to help answer your questions about permits and processes.
- Apply for a permit online. For permitting help, contact our Permit Center at permits@cob.org or 360-778-8300.
- Apply for a business license online. For business licensing and registration questions, contact finance@cob.org or 360-778-8012.
