FAQ

How do I start a business in Lakewood?
Lakewood Economic Development has created a “Small Business Resource Guide” for individuals interested in starting a new business. We also have the Small Business Academy and Business Bar to help you grow and succeed. Call us at 303-987-7050 for more information.

How do I look for or post a job in Lakewood?
Local jobs are listed for your convenience by navigating to Jobs. There is no cost for job seekers or posters!

Are there grants available to help my business?
Yes! By attending our Small Business Academy, you may be eligible for grants and assistance. Go to Small Business Academy to learn more.

What incentives are there to help me start or grow a business?
The City of Lakewood has areas located in the Enterprize Zone, where targeted areas are eligible for certain tax credits.

Where can I get City demographic information?
The City collects a wide variety of demographic information. Basic demographics can be found by visiting Demographics. For more detailed information, an Economic Development Specialist can create custom reports by request at 303-987-7050. You can also visit our Business Bar for assistance.

Where can I get traffic counts for Lakewood streets?
The City of Lakewood has can create traffic counts for most major roadways in Lakewood. Please contact an Economic Development Specialist at 303-987-7050 to get a custom report.

Does Lakewood have an Urban Renewal Authority?
Yes, the Lakewood Reinvestment Authority.

What is zoning and does it impact me and my property?
Zoning is a tool used to regulate land development by separating incompatible uses. Zoning dictates how your property can be used. It also establishes design parameters such as minimum lot size, minimum building setback, maximum building height and the number of residential housing units. To view the entire code, visit the Lakewood Zoning Code.

How can I find out my zoning?
You can find out the zoning on your property by visiting our online map function at maps.lakewood.org. Typically, just a street address is needed. You can find other maps online as well by navigating to our Maps page.

How do I obtain a building permit?
Building permits are needed for tenant finish and other development projects. Please visit our Permits Desk for more information.

Who are the members of Lakewood City Council?
Visit City Council to learn more. To determine who is your Councilperson, view a Ward Map. You can also view City Council Meetings online or on KLTV Channel 8.

What is the process to get on the City’s vendor list or view bid opportunities?
The City of Lakewood does not maintain vendor lists. We use an on-line bid service for vendor registration. The service is the Rocky Mountain E-Purchasing System. Please visit our Purchasing Division to learn more. We highly encourage Lakewood-based vendors to develop relationships with our Purchasing Division as a part of our Support Lakewood Shop Local campaign.

Does my business need a City license?
Yes! To ensure zoning and tax compliance, all business activities in the City must be licensed with a sales and/or use tax license, even if no merchandise is sold. Free seminars are held twice a year to clarify the policies. Visit our Revenue Division to learn more.

What is the City sales tax rate?
At just 3%, Lakewood's sales tax is one of the lowest in the Denver Metro area. With Colorado's state sales tax at 2.9%, a football stadium tax at .1%, a cultural facility (SCFD) tax at .1%, a Jefferson County Open Space tax at .5% and an RTD tax at 1%, Lakewood's total sales tax is only 7.6%. In 2009, Lakewood's grocery sales tax was eliminated. All of this makes Lakewood's total sales tax attractive to both businesses and consumers.

Are there any exceptions to the tax rate?
Yes, in Belmar, the sales tax rate is only 5.6%. However, a Public Improvement Fee (PIF) of 2.5% has been added to fund public improvements within Belmar such as public parking, parks, streets and sidewalks, water, sewer and storm water utilities, public spaces and public art. At the Colorado Mills Mall, there is a PIF of 1.4% to fund public roads, regional stormwater management and sanitary sewer systems for the Mall.