Business Development
About
You decided to develop your business, here in Medford. Congratulations! We are thrilled to have you!
Our diverse community and wealth of cultural and historical values make Medford a great place to work and to grow your business, and we’re excited you’re here. Our City sits on the Mystic River and is approximately 3.2 miles northwest of downtown Boston. This proximity provides all the benefits of a major urban area, and easy access to Interstate 93 and other major routes connect us to the rest of Massachusetts and New England as well. Medford is home to over 57,000 residents, and approximately 285 businesses are already thriving here. The location, community, rich history, and bright economic future here make Medford a unique place for prospective growing business owners. Below are some good first steps for getting your business started!
Doing Business in Medford
City of Medford Business Guide
Begin here when starting a business in Medford!
- Download the Guide in English
- Download the Guide in Spanish
- Download the Guide in Brazilian Portuguese
Applying for a Business Certificate
Businesses located in Medford are required to file a business certificate with the City. Business certificates must be renewed every four years.
Registering your Business
Businesses operating in Massachusetts must register with the Secretary of the Commonwealth. Annual updates are usually required as well. Begin and/or update your filings at the State's Office.
- Bids & RFP's
- Building Department Permits
- Business Resources
- Business Development Resources
- Health Department Permits
- Medford’s Multilingual Resource Line & Medford FAQ's
- Medford Square District Improvement Financing (DIF)
- Storefronts Grant
- Zoning
- Visitor Parking in Medford Square
Bids & RFP's
Building Department Permits
Business Resources
Business Development Resources
Health Department Permits
Medford’s Multilingual Resource Line & Medford FAQ's
Medford Square District Improvement Financing (DIF)
Storefronts Grant
Zoning
Visitor Parking in Medford Square
Medford Chamber of Commerce
Medford has a very active Chamber of Commerce that is dedicated to advancing and improving the business climate, advocating on behalf of the members, and offering educational support for the entire community. Learn More
Business Data
Why do Business in Medford?
Understand Medford consumer demographics at the City and neighborhood levels.
Square Demographics
Haines Square
The Hillside
Medford Square
South Medford
Wellington Circle
West Medford
Outdoor Dining
Interested in creating outdoor dining for your business? Medford’s outdoor dining season lasts from March 1st to October 31st. Applications for the 2023 season are now open. Before applying, please review Medford's Outdoor Dining License Requirements.
Additional Information:
- Example Outdoor Dining Area Plans
- Heater Safety Rules and Guidelines
- Heater Instructions and Safety Manual
If you have any questions, please contact the Office of Planning, Development, and Sustainability.
Yvette Niwa
Interim Economic Development Planner
yniwa@medford-ma.gov
85 George P. Hassett Drive
Medford, MA 02155
(781) 393-2480
Stay in the loop and sign up for the Planning, Development and Sustainability Newsletter!
Questions? Get in touch!
Telephone: (781) 393-2480
Sign up for the Business Newsletters!
Stay up to date on Medford business news and business assistance opportunities!