Regardless of your business model, you will have to work somewhere. This might be at home, in shared office space, in a rented office or in a building you purchase. Carefully consider the impacts of each of these decisions to find the one that is right for you.

Research County requirements for basing a business in your home. Home Occupation guidelines are available from the Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services. You also should review the Montgomery County "Good Neighbors" laws. 

Shared offices offer options for many types of business owners from traditional office settings to collaborative work space. Montgomery County is home to a wide variety of shared offices with locations throughout the community. 

If you determine renting or buying space is the best option for your business, be sure that the location you are considering is zoned for your type of business, that there is a current Use & Occupancy Certificate for the location and that it reflects your intended use. If you plan to alter the space, you may also need to obtain a commercial building permit .

If you plan to purchase space for your business some additional considerations may apply. In addition to zoning and use considerations, you will need a building permit to construct or renovate a property. Be sure to contract with vendors that have experience building or renovating in Montgomery County and understand the process here.

Altering or building new construction are complex endeavors and the Department of Permitting Services offers a preliminary design consultation to help you make the best decisions from the start. This is a free service and allows customers to meet with relevant Permitting Services staff to review plans and flag issues. Schedule for the next available date and then work with Permitting to adjust the schedule as needed.