Opening or Changing a Business in New Durham
Are you considering opening a new business in New Durham, or making changes to a business you already operate? Read on to understand what you need to do.
If you are thinking of starting a business that would operate in your own home, and be open to the public, you may be eligible for a Home Occupation Permit.
This is a fairly simple and inexpensive permit that is granted by the New Durham Planning Board. A person who uses less than 1000 square feet, or less than 25% of the floorspace of their home for a business is probably eligible for such a permit.
If you already have a home occupation permit and want to expand the business, or add another line of business, you may need to revise your Home Occupation Permit. Please call the Planning Office for additional information.
If you are planning a bigger business, or you already own a business in town, you will need to go through the Site Plan Review process with the Planning Board. You will also need approval from the Zoning Board of Adjustment.
Traditionally, all of New Durham has been zoned "Residential, Agricultural, or Recreation". Anyone wanting a license to do business has needed a "Special Exception" from the Zoning Board of Adjustment. The Town Meeting changed that in 2010 by establishing a Town Center District that includes Depot Road, Main Street, and parts of Old Bay Road as a "mixed use" district. People wanting to do business in the Town Center no longer need the Special Exception from the ZBA but they still need the site plan review with the Planning Baord.
| 
