Economic Development

Doing Business in Takoma Park

Takoma Park businesses and commercial property owners can benefit from tax breaks and incentive programs:

• Long Branch / Takoma Park Enterprise Zone – Businesses and owners of commercial property within the designated area may be eligible for employment and property tax credits as well as other waivers or exemptions.
• Façade Easement Grants – Eligible activities include visible improvements to building façades and surrounding areas, such as painting, window replacement, awnings, lighting, and signage; and permanent landscaping features such as outdoor benches, tables, and chairs.

Takoma Park is committed to becoming a more sustainable city. Consider these ways to green your business:

• Montgomery County Green Business Certification Program – Green your business operations, reduce your ecological footprint, and help build a sustainable future through the Green Business Certification Program.
• Montgomery County Commuter Services – Beat traffic, save time, and reduce expenses while being kind to the environment with tips from Montgomery County’s Commuter Services, for both employers and employees.

Are you doing business in Takoma Park? Here’s what you need to know:

• Businesses are required to recycle.
• Takoma Park bans polystyrene packaging.
• Most exterior renovations (e.g.: a new sign) require review and approval, especially if you are in the Historic District.
• Displaying your shop’s wares on public sidewalks requires a Sidewalk Sales Permit.
• Mobile vendors (e.g.: food trucks) need a license to operate.

The following local business associations and additional resources are at your disposal:

• Old Takoma Business Association – The historic downtown of Takoma Park along Carroll Avenue.
• Takoma/Langley Crossroads CDA – Commercial Management District in Takoma Park where New Hampshire Avenue meets University Boulevard.
• Long Branch Business League – The commercial area along Piney Branch Road at Flower Avenue.
• Maryland Small Business Development Center (SBDC) – Provides free consulting services and training to current and prospective small business owners.
• Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation (SDAT) – Checklist for starting a new business in Maryland.
• Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) – Provides small business with access to a range of financing opportunities.
• Latino Economic Development Center (LEDC) – Provides aspiring and established entrepreneurs with the skills and tools necessary to run and strengthen a small business.
• ECDC Enterprise Development Group – Provides small business loans, business training, and technical assistance and other services.
• Maryland Women’s Business Center – Helps women and men start and grow successful women-owned businesses positioned for long-term growth.