FAQs
Doing Business in Gorham
Navigating the municipal process for starting and operating a business can be daunting and finding the right answers to your questions is important. We’ve put together a list of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for new and existing Gorham businesses to help move your project forward.
If you can’t find the answer to your question(s) or need further assistance, please contact the Economic Development Division at the Department of Community Development. We are here to support the Gorham business community and we will do our best to help you.
In addition to the FAQs below, there are two sites we frequently recommend as guidance in getting started on launching and operating a new business in Maine.
FAME’s Business Roadmap outlines key steps in the business planning and financing process, along with the tools, resources, and trusted partners that can help you along the way. Including tips on market research, business planning basics and financing, the Roadmap is great tool for entrepreneurs and new business owners.
The Starting a Business website provides a comprehensive source of information on the state requirements for starting a business in Maine. It includes information on registering your business, Maine sales tax and income tax withholding, organizing your business, and links for important information on hiring employees.
Opening A Business
I am interested in opening a new business in Gorham, where do I start in Gorham?
You’ve come to the right place! Send an email to econdev@gorham.me.us or call the Economic Development Division at (207) 222-1620. We can help get you started and answer any questions you may have.
Do I need a business plan?
A business plan is not a requirement for opening a business but it’s a great way to organize your ideas, develop your overall strategies, and put in place a timeline to execute. There are local organizations that SCORE Maine and Maine SBDC who can work directly with you to develop a plan.
Can I operate my business anywhere in Gorham?
The type of business will determine where you are permitted to operate based on the town’s Land Use and Development Code, which lays out the Permitted Uses for each of the designated zoning districts. Our team can work with you to determine where your business can be located.
Do I need a “business license” to operate in Gorham?
The Town does not require a “business license” but the State of Maine may require you to register your business, depending on how it is structured. Visit the Maine.gov site, Starting A Business site for more information.
The Town requires all new businesses to submit a Use Permit application, which initiates the process of obtaining the proper approvals through Code Enforcement, Fire Safety and other departments, as necessary.
What are the requirements for a business sign?
There are specific requirements around commercial signage in Gorham, based on a number of factors. We recommend contacting the Economic Development Division for assistance with your Sign Permit application.
I would like to operate a business out of my home. Is that possible?
There are many types of businesses permitted to operate out of the home (often referred to as “home occupation”), provided business is clearly incidental and secondary to the residential purpose. A Use Permit is required by the Code Enforcement Division prior to commencement of a home occupation.
Detailed information on Home Occupation Standards can be found in the Land Use & Development Code (Section 2-15), and the Economic Development Division is available as guidance and to answer questions.
Additionally, there are state licenses available for shelf-stable food production out of the home through the Maine Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Conservation.
How do I find a site in Gorham for my business?
To get started and see what is currently available, check out the New England Commercial Property Exchange website. Our team is also available to assist you with available and pending commercial sites, and we can determine the appropriate zoning districts for your business.
Permitting & Land Use
Who can help me understand the zoning and land use regulations for a specific site?
The Town’s Department of Community Development is the best place to dig into any questions you have about zoning and land use regulations. We invite current or prospective businesses to meet with us to understand your objectives, then work with you to find the best fit for your overall needs.
What is the Land Use and Development Code?
The Land Use and Development Code (LUDC) is the Town’s set of regulations approved by Town Council that dictate how a project can be developed in Gorham. This includes zoning, performance standards, subdivision and site plans. The type of project under consideration will determine how much of the LUDC applies, as not all ordinances are relevant in each instance.
Are there any local permitting requirements for opening a business?
Yes. The number and specific types of permitting required will depend on what type of business you intend to operate in Gorham. This includes commercial sites and home occupations. Typically, a commercial business is required to submit for a Use Permit and Sign Permit, and any business serving food and/or beverage must submit for a Victualer’s License Permit. Please contact our office (email: econdev@gorham.me.us OR phone: 207-222-1620) to discuss your plans, so we may provide the best guidance for getting started.
What are the fees associated with any permitting requirements?
There can be various fees associated with permits issued by the Town, depending on the regulations and activities of a business. Also, permits are issued by different Departments and the fee amount(s) can depend on the size and scope of a project. Below are links to the fee schedules of different Departments.
Code Enforcement Fee Schedule: This list includes fees relevant only to permits issued by the Code Enforcement Division, including Use Permits, Sign Permits, Mobile Vending Units, Building Permits and plumbing/electrical permits.
Town Clerk Fee Schedule: This list includes fees relevant only to permits issued by the Town Clerk Department, including Victualer’s License, Sole Proprietor Certificate (D/B/A), and Large Outdoor Events.
Planning Division Fee Schedule: This list includes fees relevant only to permits issued by the Planning Division, including Site Plan Applications, De Minimis Changes, and Contract Zones.
What do I need to legally serve food?
The Town of Gorham requires food service establishments to maintain a Victualer’s License on an annual basis, which is administered through the Town Clerks Office.
In addition, Maine Department of Health and Human Services, Health Inspection Program exists to provide licensing and inspection services for a number of different types of businesses to protect the public health, including restaurants and eating places.
What do I need to legally serve alcohol?
There are state and local regulations governing the sale of alcohol in Gorham. The State of Maine provides a helpful step-by-step guide for obtaining a liquor license. Municipal level approval is required prior to the Maine State Bureau of Alcoholic Beverages & Lottery Operations taking up an application. Consult the Bureau’s website to determine the appropriate application (On-Premise, Off-Premise, etc.).
Applications are to be submitted to the Town Clerk Office for initial review before the application is submitted to the Town Council for Public Hearing. If the council approves the application(s), the Clerk will sign the application(s) and notify you to come and pick them up. You then submit the signed application(s) to the State along with the appropriate fee (verify amount with the State).
What are the licensing requirements (Town and State) for a business?
The exact licensing requirements for a business will depend on the type of business and the specific products and services sold there. For local (Gorham) licensing requirements, please contact our office (email: econdev@gorham.me.us OR phone: 207-222-1620), to discuss your plans, so we may provide the best guidance for getting started.
For any state licensing requirements, you can contact Business Answers, a program of the Maine Department of Economics and Community Development at 1-800-872-3838 (in-state) or 1-800-541-5872 (out-of-state). The office’s operating hours are Monday through Friday between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Its One-Stop Business Licensing Center will give you the information needed to obtain the appropriate licenses for your business.
Will my business require an inspection by local Fire Safety and/or the State Fire Marshal’s Office?
A local Fire Safety inspection will be conducted by the Gorham Fire Department prior to receiving a Certificate of Occupancy as part of the Use Permit process. Our Code Enforcement Division and Gorham Fire Department can best determine whether a State Fire Marshal inspection may be required, depending on the building, business type, and construction plans (if applicable).
New Construction & Renovation
What is the Gorham Planning Board and how often does the Planning Board meet?
Gorham’s Planning Board is a volunteer board of Gorham residents appointed by Town Council to review development proposals, site plans, and subdivision applications to determine if they align with the town’s zoning ordinances and master plan. At times, the Planning Board may be called upon by the Town Council to review proposed changes to the Land Use and Development Code in public hearing forums and workshops. Ultimately, any changes to the Land Use and Development Code are approved by the Town Council.
Please visit the Planning Board Process Review Guide for more information.
Will my project require Planning Board approval?
The overall size and scope of a project determines whether it must go before the Planning Board for review. Some projects can be reviewed at the staff level through an Administrative Review process. Minor changes or adjustments to site plans may also be done through Minor Site Plan Review or a De Minimis Change request.
An initial conversation and review with Planning Division staff determines the appropriate next steps for a project review. Contact the Planning Division by phone at (207) 222-1620 to schedule a meeting or meet with a member of our Community Development team.
What are the deadlines for submitting to the Planning Board?
A complete list of the meeting dates and deadlines for the Planning Board can be found here.
Can I talk to Town staff about my project before it goes to Planning Board?
Yes, absolutely. We prefer it when a business meets with staff to discuss a project before submitting to Planning Board. It allows us to better understand the specifics of a project and address any issues or questions early in the process. In some cases, we invite project teams to one of our staff meetings where representatives across various departments (Planning, Code Enforcement, Fire Safety, Public Works) can provide helpful feedback and guidance.
Contact the Planning Division by phone at (207) 222-1620 to schedule a meeting or meet with a member of our Community Development team.
What fees are associated with new construction and renovation projects?
The Planning Division Fee Schedule can be found here, which includes all fees for submissions to the Planning Board and other activities requiring staff review and administrative costs.
Business Administration & Regulation
Where do I find answers about labor laws, unemployment insurance and workers’ compensation?
The State of Maine Department of Labor has information available online for businesses and employers. It includes guidance in the areas of unemployment services, labor laws, training and hiring. The Employer Program and Service Guide provides a quick summary of the various bureaus at MDOL and how they engage on employer issues.
Are there any programs to help offset state and local taxes?
Yes. Our Business Incentives & Funding page provides a list of resources available at the local and state level for tax incentive programs and other ways to help offset the cost of doing business. In particular, the Business Equipment Tax Exemption (BETE) program exempts eligible business equipment from property tax.
Business Resources
What financial assistance programs or loans exist for Gorham businesses?
Our Business Incentives & Funding page provides a number of links to funding supports made available to Maine businesses. In addition, the Town of Gorham administers a Revolving Loan Fund program for local businesses, as well as micro-grant programs made available on a routine basis. These programs are only eligible to Gorham-based businesses.
Are there any free business mentorship programs available for entrepreneurs?
Yes. SCORE Maine and Maine Small Business Development Centers (SBDC) are two programs available to new and seasoned business owners looking for assistance and guidance. These programs are a great way to create a business plan and develop a timeline for your business goals.
What opportunities exist for a business to get involved in community activities?
The Town hosts various events and activities year-round through the Gorham Parks & Recreation Department. Sponsorships by local businesses can help to boost awareness of an event and, in some cases, reduce the cost to participate for everyone involved.
Gorham’s popular multi-use trail system is maintained through a collaborative effort involving the Gorham Conservation Commission, Greater Portland chapter of the New England Mountain Bike Association (GPNEMBA) and private landowners.
Gorham Village Alliance is leading efforts to energize the downtown area through small but impactful initiatives, including their annual Shop Local campaign and Art on South event.
Gorham Food Pantry plays a vital role in providing meaningful support to local residents in need. Support from local businesses goes a long way towards expanding their presence and program offerings.
