City of Burien

Before you launch your business, plan for success and assemble a business plan. A good business plan will not only guide your through the process of launching a business, but it will also help you to attract business partners and secure funding through financial institutions

Learn More About Writing Your Plan

Review Washington Business HUB's 8-step guide to business planning.

Contact us for information about Burien-area spending habits.

Learn more about local sources of financing for your business.

Move from your plan and spring into action. Seek out the advice of experts to avoid common mistakes in starting a business and to receive assistance with the implementation of your business plan.

Get ready for move-in by making improvements to your site. Make sure that you read through and understand which permits, if any, you will need to acquire before you begin work on your new space. Depending on your situation, you and/or your team may be required to obtain one of the following permits: Building Permit, Electrical Permit, Mechanical Permit, Plumbing Permit, Fire Protection Permit, Sign Permit.

Obtain a business license from both the state and the City before you begin legally operating within the City of Burien.

Licensing your business involves two steps:

Step 1: Obtain a business license from the state according to your business structure:

• If your business is a corporation or LLC, file your business through the Washington Secretary of State before applying for a business license through the Department of Revenue.
• If your business is a sole proprietorship or a general partnership you may apply for a business license directly through the Department of Revenue.

Step 2: Obtain a business license from the City by visiting the business licensing page. 

Add passion and talent to your business by bringing on new team members. Read through our resources and tips to learn more about the responsibilities of adding employees and how the City can assist you in this step.

Resources and Tips

From finding and training qualified workers, to navigating, reporting, and complying with taxes and regulations, the Washington Business Hub can to help your business bring on new team members. In addition to general tips for hiring employees, the Washington Business Hub also has a specific page for payroll-related questions.

We are excited to assist you in your search for employees. Visit our Workforce Assistance page to learn more about how we can serve you and your personnel-related needs.

Congratulations! Now that you have gone through all the hard work of getting your business set up, it is time to tell your business story and let others know you are here. The City of Burien can help.