Q: Who do I need to contact for a business license?

To get a business license in Southfield, you contact the City Clerk’s Office , who handles applications for various licenses, including general business, vendor, and liquor licenses; you’ll need to complete an application form and provide your ID and Tax ID (EIN). You can find forms and information on the city’s “Licenses & Permits” page or their “Forms & Applications” page , then mail it to the Clerk’s office at 26000 Evergreen Road. Code 1130

Q: Who do I need to contact for a business license?

To get a business license in Southfield, you contact the City Clerk’s Office , who handles applications for various licenses, including general business, vendor, and liquor licenses; you’ll need to complete an application form and provide your ID and Tax ID (EIN). You can find forms and information on the city’s “Licenses & Permits” page or their “Forms & Applications” page , then mail it to the Clerk’s office at 26000 Evergreen Road. Code 1130

Q: So… what’s the deal with “the dirt”?

Not all dirt is the same. Some sites—especially older commercial or industrial areas—may have: leftover materials from past uses fill dirt from old construction projects naturally occurring or man-made contaminants The key difference today: we test it, track it, and manage it

Question 1

Who do I need to contact for a business license?

Accepted Answer

To get a business license in Southfield, you contact the City Clerk’s Office, who handles applications for various licenses, including general business, vendor, and liquor licenses; you’ll need to complete an application form and provide your ID and Tax ID (EIN). You can find forms and information on the city’s “Licenses & Permits” page or their “Forms & Applications” page, then mail it to the Clerk’s office at 26000 Evergreen Road.

Code 1130

Question 2

Another Question

Accepted Answer

another answer

Question 3

What is a Certificate of Occupancy?

Accepted Answer

A Certificate of Occupancy (CofO) confirms that a commercial space has been inspected and approved for its intended use. It helps ensure the space meets applicable building, fire, accessibility, and life-safety requirements before it is occupied.

Question 4

Why is a Certificate of Occupancy important?

Accepted Answer

It protects business owners, employees, customers, and visitors by helping ensure commercial spaces are safe and compliant with applicable codes.

Question 5

Who do I need to contact for a business license?

Accepted Answer

To get a business license in Southfield, you contact the City Clerk’s Office, who handles applications for various licenses, including general business, vendor, and liquor licenses; you’ll need to complete an application form and provide your ID and Tax ID (EIN). You can find forms and information on the city’s “Licenses & Permits” page or their “Forms & Applications” page, then mail it to the Clerk’s office at 26000 Evergreen Road.

Code 1130

Question 6

Another Question

Accepted Answer

another answer

Question 7

What is a Certificate of Occupancy?

Accepted Answer

A Certificate of Occupancy (CofO) confirms that a commercial space has been inspected and approved for its intended use. It helps ensure the space meets applicable building, fire, accessibility, and life-safety requirements before it is occupied.

Question 8

Why is a Certificate of Occupancy important?

Accepted Answer

It protects business owners, employees, customers, and visitors by helping ensure commercial spaces are safe and compliant with applicable codes.

Question 9

So… what’s the deal with “the dirt”?

Accepted Answer

Not all dirt is the same.

Some sites—especially older commercial or industrial areas—may have:
- leftover materials from past uses
- fill dirt from old construction projects
- naturally occurring or man-made contaminants
The key difference today: we test it, track it, and manage it

Question 10

What is the dirt about the dirt?

Accepted Answer

Learn how Michigan brownfield redevelopment projects handle soil safety, environmental testing, and public health protections. We break down what happens before, during, and after redevelopment, including how Due Care Plans, professional oversight, and state regulations help manage potential risks. We also explain why safely covering or building over impacted soil can sometimes be the approved and responsible solution, rather than removing all of the dirt.

Question 11

I live near a site. Is my family safe?

Accepted Answer

Safety comes first, and there are rules in place to protect you.

Before redevelopment:
- soil and groundwater are tested by professionals
During redevelopment:
- sites must follow a state-required safety plan
- dust, runoff, and access are controlled
After redevelopment:
- sites are often safer than before because risks are identified and managed
- Projects must meet state safety requirements before moving forward

Question 12

How can the SDDA help me through the process?

Accepted Answer

Grant Committee members can answer questions, help applicants understand the occupancy process, identify potential requirements, and connect applicants with appropriate City departments and resources.

Question 13

What is the Cornerstone Comeback Grant Program?

Accepted Answer

The program provides financial assistance and technical guidance to encourage business investment, commercial occupancy, and property improvements within the Cornerstone District.

Question 14

What grant opportunities are available?

Accepted Answer

Cornerstone Comeback Business Opening Grant (Eligibility Area: Entire Cornerstone District)
Cornerstone Curb Appeal Facade Improvement Grant (Eligibility Area: Northland Park)
Mid-Century Modern Address Numeral Grant (Eligibility Area: Northland Park)

Question 15

Can I apply for more than one grant?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Applicants may apply for one or more grant opportunities if they meet the eligibility requirements for each program.

Question 16

How do I know which grant is right for my project?

Accepted Answer

Contact the SDDA before applying. Staff and Grant Committee members can discuss your project and help identify the most appropriate grant opportunity.

Question 17

What is the Business Opening Grant?

Accepted Answer

This grant helps businesses and property owners activate commercial spaces by reimbursing eligible City of Southfield fees associated with obtaining a Certificate of Occupancy

Question 18

What is a Certificate of Occupancy?

Accepted Answer

A Certificate of Occupancy (CofO) confirms that a commercial space has been inspected and approved for its intended use. It helps ensure the space meets applicable building, fire, accessibility, and life-safety requirements before it is occupied.

Question 19

Why is a Certificate of Occupancy important?

Accepted Answer

It protects business owners, employees, customers, and visitors by helping ensure commercial spaces are safe and compliant with applicable codes.

Question 20

What expenses are eligible?

Accepted Answer

Eligible expenses are qualifying fees paid directly to the City of Southfield as part of obtaining a Certificate of Occupancy. See the Program Guide for complete eligibility requirements.

Question 21

What improvements are eligible for the Cornerstone Curb Appeal Facade Improvement Grant

Accepted Answer

Eligible projects include exterior improvements that enhance curb appeal and improve the appearance of commercial properties. See the Program Guide for eligible improvements.

Question 22

Who can apply?

Accepted Answer

Eligible property owners and businesses located within the Northland Park eligible area.

Question 23

Why is the SDDA encouraging Mid-Century Modern address numerals?

Accepted Answer

Consistent address numerals improve visibility, strengthen district identity, and reinforce the Mid-Century Modern character of Northland Park.

Question 24

What styles are encouraged?

Accepted Answer

Mid-Century Modern styles such as Futura, Kabel, Neutraface, Avant Garde Gothic, and similar typefaces. See the Program Guide for design guidance.

Question 25

Who can apply?

Accepted Answer

Eligible property owners and businesses located within the Northland Park eligible area.

Question 26

How are applications reviewed?

Accepted Answer

Applications are reviewed by SDDA staff and/or the Grant Review Committee. Some projects may be referred to the Arts Commission, Planning Commission, or SDDA Board for additional review

Question 27

Is funding guaranteed?

Accepted Answer

No. Grants are awarded based on eligibility, available funding, and program priorities.

Question 28

When are reimbursements issued?

Accepted Answer

All grants are reimbursement-based. Reimbursement is issued after project completion and submission of required documentation. Business Opening Grant reimbursements are issued after the Certificate of Occupancy has been granted.

Question 29

Where can I find the application and Program Guide?

Accepted Answer

Contact the SDDA office or visit the SDDA website for the latest application materials and program documents.

Question 30

Need Help Getting Started?

Accepted Answer

The SDDA encourages prospective applicants to contact us before submitting an application. Staff and Grant Committee members are available to answer questions, explain program requirements, discuss project ideas, and help connect applicants with City departments and available resources.
Whether you’re opening a business, improving a commercial property, or investing in Northland Park, we’re here to help you navigate the process.

FAQs

Opening a Business

Other Grants

Grant Opportunities by Our Partners

Cornerstone Comeback Grant Program

What is the Dirt About the Dirt?

A plain-language guide to soil, safety, and Michigan’s brownfield rules

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