Planning to open, relocate, expand, or change a business in Astoria? This page provides information on zoning, permits, business licensing, and other approvals that may be required before you begin operations.
Before you buy property, sign a lease, or begin improvements, contact the Community Development Department to discuss your proposal.
A property may have zoning restrictions, occupancy limitations, historic review requirements, parking issues, utility constraints, or permit requirements that are not obvious at first glance.
Two buildings next door to each other may have different development histories and approval requirements. Contact the City before buying property, signing a lease, or making major financial commitments based on a planned business use.
Every project is different, but most new business inquiries move through the same general steps. Some businesses may only need a business license, while others may require land use review, building permits, inspections, or additional agency approvals.
Develop business plan
Identify potential location(s) to buy or lease
Contact City of Astoria Planning Division before buying or signing
Complete a “Development & Project Inquiry” or schedule a Pre-Application Meeting for more detailed information
Apply for required permits, reviews, and approvals
Obtain a business license and complete permits, reviews, and inspections
Open for business after required approvals are complete
Before committing to a location, confirm the zoning, allowed uses, historic status, parking requirements, previous approvals, and any site-specific constraints.
Most businesses need a City business license. Depending on the location, use, and proposed improvements, you may also need Planning, Building, Fire, Engineering, or other reviews before opening.
Most businesses operating in Astoria need a City business license, also known as Occupational Tax registration.
Best for early-stage ideas, potential locations, and initial project questions before you commit to a location or design.
Best for larger or more complicated projects that may involve several departments or review types.
Some projects may require Site Plan Review, especially new construction, substantial additions or renovations, changes that affect access, parking, utilities, stormwater, loading, or circulation, and projects that require certain land use or design reviews.
Site Plan Review is intended to coordinate review of development for consistency with the Development Code, City Code, Engineering Design Standards, and other applicable regulations.
Some new development projects and certain changes in use may be subject to System Development Charges (SDCs). SDCs are one-time fees that help pay for infrastructure needed to serve growth, including water, wastewater, storm drainage, transportation, and parks facilities.
SDCs are separate from permit and application fees. The amount owed varies depending on the type and scale of development. Applicants are encouraged to contact the Engineering Division early in the planning process to determine whether SDCs may apply and to request an estimate.
Depending on your business type, location, and proposed improvements, you may need one or more City reviews or approvals before opening. Some are permits, some are land use reviews, and some are department reviews tied to a building permit or business license.
Contact the Community Development Department before signing a lease, purchasing property, or beginning improvements.
City of Astoria Community Development Department1095 Duane Street, Astoria, OR 97103
planning@astoria.gov
(503) 338-5183
