Doing Business In

Opelika

Ready to make your dream a reality or take your business to new heights? The Opelika business community is the perfect place to do just that. Whether you’re looking to operate a business in the midst of our thriving retail hub that is TigerTown, or open a one-of-a-kind small business in one of our other shopping centers or Main Street downtown area, Opelika is full of opportunity!

It doesn’t stop with restaurants and shopping, though. Opelika is also home to several multi-million dollar medical and industrial facilities, some of whom are responsible for making much of the world’s supply of kidney dialyzers or gummy vitamins. The City of Opelika’s Economic Development department works hard to ensure we have a strong, diversified business community and are ready to hear what your plans are to bring business to Opelika. We encourage you to connect with them right away.

There are so many reasons why Opelika, AL, is a business-friendly place but one of our favorites is our Mayor Gary Fuller. Being a previous small business owner himself, he has continued to pour in support for small businesses development throughout the Opelika community.

“Opelika offers great opportunities for entrepreneurs and businesses, as well as commercial and retail development. Local jobs keep money right here, close to home. And there is no denying our community offers a great quality of life, and excellent schools, networking opportunities and support to our businesses. We are extremely fortunate that these leaders and business owners also care about our community. Opening a business in Opelika is a win-win situation for everyone!”

-Gary Fuller, Opelika City Mayor

Take advantage of the multitude of resources for business development in our area. Here are a few we have found beneficial:

Small Business Development Center Opelika Business Checklist Resource Guide for Veterans

Small Business Development Center

The Small Business Development Center at Auburn University is an amazing place to start for help at ALL stages of business. They offer free confidential business advising services to nine counties in the state of Alabama. Reach out to their director Ms. Lindsay Bridges at 334.825.7232. or make an appointment on their website!

Opelika Business Checklist

The City of Opelika Economic Development Department will assist all new and/or expanding industry by facilitating the approval process for all relevant permits and licenses, as well as assisting with any state grant or tax abatement programs and incentives. The Economic Development department will assemble all appropriate departments for a joint meeting to map out the various requirements and steps to be followed.

Resource Guide for Veterans

Visit Small Business Development Center Website

Visit Opelika Business Checklist Website

How to do business in Alabama?

Seeking information on Economic Development resources?

What are the first steps for a new business in Opelika?

For new businesses wishing to locate inside the city limits the plan review process must be initiated at the City of Opelika Revenue Department. Once the plan review has been approved, the Revenue Department will contact the business owner to purchase the business license.

If you conduct business inside the city limits, but do not have an office or physical presence, the steps to obtaining a license are as follows:

Come to the Revenue Department, which is located at: 204 S Seventh Street Opelika, AL 36801
Explain the nature of your business to one of the Revenue Department employees who will tell you what type license is needed. Fill out a business application (PDF). You may download an application from this site and fill in as much information as you can before visiting the Revenue Department. (link)
Pay cash, credit card, debit card or make your check payable to City of Opelika. The price of the license varies depending on the type of license required and includes a $12 issuance fee. A license certificate will be issued to you at that time. There are no decals required for your vehicle.

Licenses & Permits

Need a business license with the City of Opelika?

What is a home-based license?

What is a contract-work license?

Plumbing and electrical contractors are required to purchase a surety bond prior to starting a contract.

When applying for a business license, plumbing and electrical contractors, heating/air conditioning contractors, landscapers, refrigeration and gas fitters, and exterminators must present a State of Alabama license certificate or card.

Contractors and subs working on a project where no permit is required must pay a fee of one-fourth of one % when the license is due.

Looking for a building permit?

Grant & Loan Programs

What is the Revolving Loan Fund Program through the Lee Russell Council of Governments?

The Revolving Loan Fund Program is a great tool to kick start your business dreams! The fund provides low-interest, long-term financing to small and medium-sized businesses. The program is intended to fill the gap between what the bank can lend and what the borrower can provide in equity. This fund helps to create and maintain jobs within the Lee and Russell County borders. Learn more about the Revolving Loan Fund here!

What is the Opelika Chamber's Small Business Grant Program?

Work Spaces

Need a commissary kitchen?

Need office space?

In need of a separate work from home? Ready to move the team out of the garage and toward success? Whatever your business needs, CoLab can help! CoLab is a business center that offers cost-effective space and service solutions to local businesses that help them flourish. They offer over 60 private office spaces that are fully furnished and ready for you to customize! Learn more about CoLab here!

Need commercial property?

How can I reserve Courthouse Square for an event or request a street closure in Downtown Opelika?