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Welcome to our new website!
Welcome! We hope you find our new website helpful and easier to navigate. It's now as easy to use on your smartphone as your desktop. Take a tour and please tell us what you think.
We understand that starting a business can be a huge undertaking. The city is committed to helping you get the best start possible.
If you're looking to open a business in Hastings, use the resources on this page to get started.
When in doubt, reach out to the Economic Development Coordinator by email or 651-480-2379 with any questions.
Step 1: Contact the Economic Development Coordinator
Your first step should be to reach out to the Economic Development Coordinator. They are happy to answer any questions that you might have about where your business is allowed to be located and what other resources are available to new business owners.
You can contact them at comdev@hastingsmn.gov or 651-480-2379
Securing a location for your business is usually the first step on your journey. You can look at For Sale/For Lease options listed on LoopNet or MNCAR.
Once you have a location identified, reach out to City Staff to confirm that it aligns with our Zoning Code.
Additionally, HEDRA has some parcels of land available for sale. Contact the Economic Development Coordinator at comdev@hastingsmn.gov or 651-480-2379 for more information.
If you are interested in running a business out of your house, please see the Home Occupations page.
Step 3: Meet With the Building Department
Whether you're leasing a space, renovating an existing building, or building something brand new, getting an initial meeting with our Building Department is crucial.
It's likely that you will need a Commercial Building Permit to make the space just right for your business.
At the very least, you'll need to complete a Change of Occupancy form and have a walkthrough with the Fire Marshal to ensure that everything is safe.
Contact the Building department at building@hastingsmn.gov
Step 4: Apply For City Licenses
Depending on the type of business you are running, you may need a special license to operate.
The list of licenses can be found on the Business Licenses and Permits page.
Don't forget to get your utility accounts set up!
The City oversees Water/Sewer utility payments
Electrical is provided by either Xcel Energy or Dakota County Electric, depending on location in the City
Natural Gas is provided by CenterPoint Energy
Step 6: Make Local Connections
As you get the finishing touches put on your building, connect with other business owners in town.
The Chamber of Commerce and Downtown Business Association are great organizations that provide networking opportunities and advocate for what business owners need to succeed.
Check out the resources on the Business Growth Partners page to find helpful tools to get your business started on the right foot.
Economic Development
Phone: 651-480-2379
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