Eugene, OR Business License Guide

Last updated: August 2025

This is a practical, step-by-step hub for starting and licensing a business in Eugene, Oregon. It covers what you must do at the city, county, and state levels; where to go; how much it costs (with official sources); timelines; common mistakes; and backup options.

Eugene does not issue a one-size-fits-all “general” city business license for every business. Most Eugene businesses still need to register with the State of Oregon, meet Eugene’s land use and building rules, handle local and state taxes (including Eugene’s Community Safety Payroll Tax and the Lane Transit District payroll/self-employment tax), and obtain specialty licenses or permits based on your industry and location. Every claim and dollar figure below links to an official source where possible.

Quick help (start here)

• If you plan to operate at a Eugene address, confirm your location is legal for your business with the City of Eugene Permit & Information Center. Start with zoning/occupancy before anything else: City of Eugene Permit & Information Center (PIC) – location, hours, contact. Ask to speak with Planning/Building about zoning/occupancy. Typical first question: “Is my proposed use allowed at [address]?”
• Register your business with the Oregon Secretary of State. Most entities file online in minutes. Common fees: LLC formation $100; corporation formation $100; assumed business name (DBA) $50; LLC/corp annual report $100. Source: Oregon Secretary of State business registry fees (official fee schedule).
• Get your federal EIN free from the IRS. Apply online: IRS EIN Assistant (official IRS).
• Register for state payroll and transit taxes if you have employees or self-employment income. Oregon uses a combined employer registration and administers Lane Transit District (LTD) payroll/self-employment taxes. Start here: Oregon Business Xpress: Employer obligations and registration (official state portal).
• Eugene’s Community Safety Payroll Tax (CSPT) applies to wages paid for work in Eugene and to self-employed persons with a Eugene place of business. Use the official rate chart and calculator: City of Eugene – Community Safety Payroll Tax (official city page with rates, exemptions, and filing).
• Food, alcohol, child care, salons, contractors, short‑term rentals, cannabis, and mobile vendors have extra licenses/permits. Use Oregon’s official License Directory to find all applicable permits: Oregon License Directory (search by business type) (official).
• Get free 1:1 help locally. Lane SBDC offers no-cost advising and workshops for licensing, finance, and compliance: Lane Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at Lane Community College (local, publicly funded). If you need a human immediately, call them at 541-463-6200.

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What you actually need in Eugene: the short version

• There is no general “City of Eugene business license” for all businesses. Many still need:
  • Land use/zoning clearance and possibly a Certificate of Occupancy if you’re changing the use, adding seats, or altering space.
  • Specialty permits (food service, alcohol, cannabis, child care, TNC, etc.).
  • Local and state tax registrations: Eugene Community Safety Payroll Tax and Lane Transit District payroll/self-employment tax (administered by Oregon DOR), plus Oregon payroll and potentially the state Corporate Activity Tax if you’re large enough.
• Always check your location first. If your site isn’t zoned for your use or doesn’t meet building/fire rules, everything else waits.
• State formation and tax setup is usually faster than local building/health permits. Plan timelines accordingly.

Source: See city and state portals: City of Eugene – Business (main site) and Oregon Business Xpress.

Fast path: which approvals you likely need

Table notes:

• “Who issues it?” is your official contact path.
• “When you need it” includes the common triggers for Eugene businesses.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you’re unsure which items apply, get a free intake session with Lane SBDC or ask the City of Eugene Permit & Information Center to connect you to Planning (zoning) and Building.

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Step 1: Confirm your location and use with the City (zoning, occupancy, fire)

Start here. If your site or home address isn’t allowed for the use you want (e.g., salon, coffee shop, office, warehouse), you’ll waste time and money on the wrong permits.

• Contact the City of Eugene Permit & Information Center (PIC). Ask for Planning (zoning) to confirm your proposed use is allowed at your address and whether a land use approval or Home Occupation Permit (for home-based work) is needed. Also ask Building whether a building permit or a new/updated Certificate of Occupancy is required for any build-out, seating changes, or equipment.
• Typical triggers:
  • Changing from one use to another (e.g., retail to food service).
  • Adding or changing walls, plumbing, electrical, hood systems, or restrooms.
  • Increasing occupancy (seats).
  • Adding signage on the exterior.
• Fire code. Eugene-Springfield Fire may require operational permits (e.g., cooking with open flames, compressed gases) and inspections before opening.
• Home-based businesses. Many are allowed with limits on traffic, signage, and employees on site. Some require a Home Occupation Permit. Ask Planning for the home occupation standards and whether your work qualifies.
• Where to check:
  • City of Eugene Planning & Development main portal: City of Eugene – Planning & Development
  • Permit & Information Center (PIC) location and contacts: City of Eugene – Permit & Information Center
  • Eugene-Springfield Fire – permits/inspections: Eugene-Springfield Fire – Fire Marshal
• Typical timeline:
  • Simple zoning confirmation: same day to a few days.
  • Basic sign/building permits: often 2–6 weeks depending on workload and completeness.
  • Complex build-outs: 6–12+ weeks across multiple reviews.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you hit zoning issues, Planning can discuss alternative zoning districts, conditional uses, or whether a minor code adjustment is possible. If the site won’t work, move site selection up-front. For home-based work that doesn’t fit, consider co-working, maker spaces, or small lease spaces zoned for your use.

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Step 2: Register your business with the State of Oregon (entity and name)

Most businesses form an LLC or corporation or file a DBA (Assumed Business Name) with the Oregon Secretary of State. You can file online in minutes.

• Choose your structure. LLCs are common for small businesses. Corporations and partnerships are options. If you will do business under a name other than your personal legal name, file an Assumed Business Name (ABN/DBA).
• File online with the Oregon Secretary of State:
  • Start: Oregon Secretary of State – Start a Business
  • Fee schedule: Oregon Secretary of State business registry fees
• Common fees (official SOS fee schedule):
  • LLC Articles of Organization: $100
  • Corporation Articles of Incorporation (domestic): $100
  • Assumed Business Name registration: $50 (two-year registration)
  • Annual report (LLC, business corporation): $100
  • Nonprofit corporation annual report: $50
• Annual report deadline: Due each year by the entity’s anniversary. Late filings risk administrative dissolution. Source: Oregon Secretary of State – Annual report information.
• Business name availability. Check the registry to avoid conflicts: Oregon Business Name Search.
• Need help? Call the Corporation Division at 503-986-2200 (official line per SOS site) or use the SOS contact page: SOS Corporation Division – Contact.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you get rejected for name conflicts, tweak the name and re-search the database. If the online filing errors out, call 503-986-2200 for a live clerk. For structure/tax questions, ask an Oregon CPA or get a free consult at Lane SBDC.

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Step 3: Get your federal EIN

Most banks require an EIN to open your business account. You need it to hire employees.

• Apply free online directly with the IRS: IRS – Apply for an EIN online.
• Timeline: immediate EIN issuance online for most applicants during IRS hours.
• Cost: $0. If someone tries to charge, back out.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you’re not eligible to apply online (certain entity types or foreign owners), use Form SS‑4 or call the IRS as directed on the official page. Your bank might allow a temporary account if you show proof of filing; ask first.

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Step 4: Register for state payroll taxes, transit taxes, and Paid Leave

If you’ll have employees in Eugene, you have several Oregon employer obligations. Even if you’re self-employed, certain local transit/self-employment taxes apply.

• Use Oregon’s one‑stop portal to find and register for the right accounts:
  • Start here: Oregon Business Xpress – Employer.
• Common accounts you may need:
  • Oregon Withholding Tax (Department of Revenue).
  • Unemployment Insurance (Employment Department; many services now via Frances Online).
  • Paid Leave Oregon (contributions split between employers with 25+ employees and employees; small employers generally withhold only). Rates set annually; see: Paid Leave Oregon – Contributions and rates (official).
  • Lane Transit District (LTD) payroll and self-employment tax (applies in the Eugene/Springfield area). See official rates: Oregon DOR – Transit district taxes (rates, maps, filing).
  • Corporate Activity Tax (CAT), if applicable (thresholds below).
• Oregon Corporate Activity Tax (CAT) basics:
  • Registration required when Oregon commercial activity reaches $750,000 in a calendar year.
  • Tax due when commercial activity exceeds $1,000,000.
  • Tax is $250 plus 0.57% of taxable commercial activity above $1,000,000, with a subtraction (generally 35% of the greater of cost inputs or labor).
  • Deadlines: annual return generally due by April 15 following the year.
  • Official rules and updates: Oregon Department of Revenue – Corporate Activity Tax.
• Lane Transit District (LTD) payroll/self-employment tax:
  • Applies to wages and self-employment earnings within the LTD district (includes Eugene/Springfield area).
  • Rates are set by statute and adjusted periodically. Find the current LTD rate and district map here: Oregon DOR – Transit tax (LTD).
  • Employer obligation: register, withhold from payroll if required, file, and pay on schedule (generally quarterly, check DOR guidance).
• Paid Leave Oregon (PFML):
  • Contributions are wage-based and set each year by the state.
  • Employers with fewer than 25 employees generally do not pay the employer share but must withhold the employee share and remit.
  • Get current-year rate, wage base, and due dates on the official page: Paid Leave Oregon – Contributions.
• Workers’ compensation insurance:
  • Required if you have Oregon employees. You can get coverage through private carriers or SAIF (state-chartered, nonprofit).
  • Learn more and request quotes: SAIF – Get workers’ comp.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If registration fails in the online portals, contact the agency named on the error page or use the main Oregon Business Xpress help links. For payroll setup questions, a local payroll provider or your CPA can do this quickly. Lane SBDC can also walk you through registration steps.

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Step 5: Eugene Community Safety Payroll Tax (CSPT)

If you pay wages for work performed in Eugene, or you’re self‑employed with a Eugene place of business, this local tax likely applies. It funds public safety.

• Who pays:
  • Employers paying wages for work done inside Eugene city limits.
  • Employees working in Eugene (withheld by employer).
  • Self‑employed individuals with a Eugene place of business.
• Rates and brackets:
  • Rates differ for employers, employees, and self‑employed, and are tiered (employer rates vary by payroll size; employee rates vary by wage level).
  • Use the city’s official rate chart and calculator for accurate current rates and examples: City of Eugene – Community Safety Payroll Tax (rates, exemptions, filing).
• Filing and payment:
  • Employers: register, withhold, file, and pay on the city’s schedule (usually quarterly).
  • Self‑employed: file/pay according to city instructions.
• Exemptions/adjustments:
  • Certain low-wage thresholds and small-employer rules may apply—see the official page for current details.
• Where to get help:
  • City’s official CSPT help and contact page: City of Eugene – Community Safety Payroll Tax.

Reality check:

• This tax is separate from state payroll taxes and the LTD transit tax. It’s easy to miss if your payroll provider isn’t aware of Eugene-specific rules. Ensure your provider supports Eugene CSPT.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you can’t confirm your rate or whether your employees are “working in Eugene,” contact the city using the contact info on the CSPT page and provide your addresses and job descriptions. If a payroll system doesn’t support CSPT, consider a provider that explicitly supports Oregon local taxes or ask for a manual override procedure.

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Step 6: Industry-specific licensing and permits (local and state)

This is where requirements change a lot by business type. Always pull your specific list from official sources.

• Food service (brick-and-mortar, food truck, caterer):
  • Licensing: Lane County Environmental Health (delegated from Oregon Health Authority).
  • Inspections: Usually required before opening; plan your menu and equipment based on health code.
  • Official info and fee schedules: Lane County Environmental Health – Food service licensing (find Foodborne Illness Prevention/Food Safety pages).
  • Oregon state food safety rules: OHA Food Safety.
• Alcohol (restaurants, bars, retail):
  • Licensing: OLCC plus local government recommendation (City of Eugene).
  • Typical fees: OLCC license application fees vary by license type. Common annual license fees include Full On‑Premises Sales (restaurant/bar) and Off‑Premises (retail). Use the official OLCC fee schedule: OLCC Alcohol License Types and Fees.
  • Server permits: Individual alcohol service permits are required for servers/managers; fees and training requirements are posted here: OLCC Service Permit.
• Cannabis (recreational):
  • Licensing: OLCC (recreational).
  • Land use: Confirm zoning with City of Eugene Planning first.
  • Official info: OLCC Marijuana Licensing.
• Contractor/trades:
  • Licensing: Oregon Construction Contractors Board (CCB).
  • Fees and bonding: Two‑year license fee commonly $325 (per CCB), plus required surety bonds that vary by license endorsement (e.g., residential general contractor bond often $20,000; commercial bonds higher). See current official table: Oregon CCB – Bonds, insurance, and fees.
  • Training/exam: Pre-license training and an exam for the Responsible Managing Individual (RMI) are required for most licenses: Oregon CCB – How to get licensed.
• Personal services (salons, barbers, estheticians, tattoo):
  • Licensing: Oregon Health Licensing Office (HLO) and relevant boards, plus facility licensure and inspections.
  • Start at: Oregon HLO – Boards, applications, and rules.
• Child care:
  • Licensing: Oregon Department of Early Learning & Care.
  • Start at: Oregon Early Learning & Care – Child Care Licensing.
• Transportation network drivers (Uber/Lyft) and taxis:
  • Permits: City of Eugene regulates for-hire vehicles and TNCs.
  • Start at: City of Eugene – Transportation/For-Hire.
• Short‑term rentals and lodging taxes:
  • State lodging tax: 1.5% state lodging tax applies to short stays under 30 days. Source: Oregon DOR – State Lodging Tax.
  • Local lodging/Transient Room Tax (TRT): The City of Eugene imposes a local lodging tax. Register and file with the city; see: City of Eugene – Transient Room Tax.
  • Platform collection: Some platforms collect/remit certain taxes; verify what’s covered and what you still must file locally.
• Signs (exterior/window):
  • Permits: Required for most exterior signs and some window signs.
  • Start with Building at the PIC: City of Eugene – Sign permits.
• Mobile businesses (food carts, mobile services):
  • Zoning: Home base and vending locations must be approved.
  • Health: Food trucks require health licensing and commissary arrangements if applicable.
  • City siting rules: Ask PIC for mobile vending standards and where you can operate.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you’re stuck or getting mixed answers, ask for a pre‑application meeting with Planning/Building and any applicable agencies (fire, health). Bring a one‑page summary of your business, a simple floor plan, and your menu/services. It saves time and helps staff give you consolidated answers.

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Step 7: Taxes you’ll likely file (Eugene + Oregon) and where

This section helps you see the landscape. Your exact set will vary by size and industry.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you’re unsure which taxes you owe, ask your CPA to map a filing calendar for you, or get help from the SBDC. Never ignore unknown notices—call the issuing agency listed on the notice immediately.

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Fees and costs you can expect (with official sources)

You asked for real numbers. Below are common, stable fees from official schedules. Where amounts vary by year or category, use the linked fee page.

Notes:

• Eugene’s Community Safety Payroll Tax and LTD transit tax rates depend on brackets and can change. Always use the official calculators linked above.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If a fee you’re seeing doesn’t match these sources, trust the official agency fee page and note the effective date. When in doubt, call the agency and ask them to point you to the current fee table.

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How long this really takes in Eugene (by business type)

Timelines are realistic ranges assuming you respond quickly and submit complete applications.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If your permit stalls, ask for a status update and whether anything is “awaiting applicant.” Consider a pre‑construction meeting to resolve comments all at once. If a landlord delay is the issue, set deadlines in your lease for permit sign‑offs.

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Real‑world examples (Eugene scenarios)

• Eugene food cart:
  • Zoning: Confirm cart siting and required clearances with the City’s PIC. If on private property, you’ll likely need property owner permission and site compliance.
  • Health: Lane County Environmental Health plan review and mobile unit license before operating.
  • Taxes: Oregon payroll if you hire; LTD transit tax; Eugene CSPT if work is performed in Eugene; federal/state income taxes.
  • Timeline: 4–10 weeks depending on queue and plan review.
  • Sources: Lane County Environmental Health – Food Safety and City of Eugene – Planning/Permitting.
• Home‑based graphic designer:
  • Zoning: Home occupation rules—limited client visits and signage. Ask Planning whether a permit is needed for your situation.
  • Formation: LLC $100 or DBA $50; EIN $0.
  • Taxes: Likely no payroll taxes if no employees; may still owe LTD self‑employment tax and Eugene CSPT if considered self‑employment with a Eugene business location.
  • Timeline: 1–2 weeks.
  • Sources: Oregon SOS – Fees; Oregon DOR – Transit taxes; City of Eugene – CSPT.
• Small retail plus beer/wine:
  • Zoning: Retail use usually allowed in commercial zones; confirm occupancy.
  • OLCC: Off‑Premises Retail License (beer/wine to go). City recommendation required; background checks apply.
  • Sign permits likely; building permit if you remodel.
  • Taxes: Oregon payroll (if staff), LTD, Eugene CSPT, CAT only if >$1,000,000 in commercial activity.
  • Timeline: 6–12+ weeks, depending on OLCC processing and any build‑outs.
  • Sources: OLCC Licensing; City of Eugene – Sign permits.
• General contractor (remodels):
  • CCB license: Fee $325 for two years; bond amount depends on endorsement (e.g., residential $20,000 bond).
  • Insurance and workers’ comp required if you have employees.
  • Pull job permits through the City’s Building division for each project.
  • Timeline: 2–6 weeks for initial licensing; job permits vary.
  • Sources: Oregon CCB – Licensing; Oregon CCB – Bonds/insurance.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Ask for a pre‑application meeting with all involved agencies. Bring sketches, photos, site plans, and a written summary. It shortens back‑and‑forth. For OLCC questions, call the OLCC main line at 503-872-5000 and ask for licensing. For contracting scope questions, call CCB at 503-378-4621.

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Common mistakes to avoid (seen in Eugene often)

• Skipping the zoning check. People sign leases and later learn their use isn’t allowed or the building needs costly upgrades. Always ask Planning before you sign.
• Assuming Eugene has no local tax obligations. Many new employers miss the Community Safety Payroll Tax or LTD transit tax and get back‑billed with penalties.
• Underestimating build‑out time. Health, fire, mechanical, and building reviews add time, especially for food uses and hoods.
• Missing annual report deadlines. Oregon SOS annual reports are due every year by your anniversary; late = penalties and possible dissolution.
• Assuming platforms fully handle lodging taxes. Even if a platform remits the state lodging tax, you may still have a City of Eugene TRT account and filing duty.
• Using the wrong business name. If you use a name different from your legal name, you need an Assumed Business Name (DBA) in Oregon; banks will ask for it.
• Not setting up workers’ comp early. It’s required if you have employees, and some permits or job sites will ask for proof.
• Not documenting “where work is performed.” For Eugene CSPT and LTD, location matters. Keep records of where employees work, including remote/hybrid addresses.
• Forgetting sign permits. Window and exterior signs frequently need permits or have rules—ask before installing.
• Guessing on OLCC/cannabis rules. These are strict; go to the source pages and follow the checklists.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you’ve already made one of these mistakes, own it and call the relevant agency. Most agencies are reasonable if you’re proactive. An accountant can help you file back returns and ask for penalty relief where allowed.

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Documents you’ll likely need (keep these ready)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you don’t have professional plans, start with a clear hand sketch and equipment list; Building/Health can tell you if formal plans are required.

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Inclusivity, diversity, and accessibility resources in Oregon

These programs help women‑owned, minority‑owned, service‑disabled veteran‑owned, LGBTQ+‑owned, disabled‑owned, and immigrant‑owned businesses compete for contracts, find capital, and access language support.

• State certifications (COBID):
  • Free certifications: MBE, WBE, SDVBE, ESB (small business), and DBE/ACDBE (for federally funded projects).
  • Benefits: Access to set‑asides and goaled public contracts (state, local, ODOT/airport).
  • Official: Certification Office for Business Inclusion and Diversity (COBID) with application instructions.
• Veteran-owned support:
  • Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs (ODVA) provides business resources, and federal SDVOSB certification is available for eligible firms.
  • Start here: ODVA – Benefits and resources and SBA – Veteran small business certification (VETS First).
• Women, minority, LGBTQ+:
  • COBID certification above; the State of Oregon also funds technical assistance partners who provide multilingual help.
  • See statewide partners via Business Oregon: Business Oregon – Small Business resources.
• Disability-owned and accessible workplaces:
  • Job coaching, hiring incentives, and reasonable accommodation help via Oregon Vocational Rehabilitation: Oregon VR.
  • ADA compliance guidance: ADA.gov – Small business.
• Language access:
  • Many state portals provide translation. If you need help in a language other than English, contact Lane SBDC to set up assistance: Lane SBDC – Contact.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you’re stuck in a certification, book a COBID orientation or request technical assistance from a listed partner (free). For language support during city/state meetings, request an interpreter in advance through the agency’s contact page.

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Key contacts (official sources)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If a link changes, go to the agency’s main homepage (listed) and search the program name. For urgent help, call the listed phone numbers or ask Lane SBDC to route you.

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Reality checks: money, time, insurance, and leases

• Build-out always takes longer. If you’re opening a restaurant or salon, add buffer time for equipment lead times, hood work, grease interceptors, and inspections.
• Payroll is not “set and forget.” Oregon has multiple layers (withholding, UI, Paid Leave, LTD, Eugene CSPT). If you’re not using a payroll service that knows Oregon local taxes, you will likely miss a filing.
• Don’t rely on the landlord’s word for use approval. Verify use and occupancy with the City. Ask for copies of the Certificate of Occupancy and last inspection.
• Insurance is essential. Many licenses (CCB, OLCC, health) and landlords require specific policies. Confirm requirements before purchasing.
• Bank accounts and merchant services need real documents. Bring your SOS registry, EIN, operating agreement/bylaws, and photo ID.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If costs or timelines creep, consider a phased opening (soft open without alcohol, trimmed menu, or temporary hours). If a lease is signed but the site is not workable, negotiate rent abatement or landlord‑funded improvements with code compliance conditions.

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FAQ (Oregon/Eugene specific)

• Do I need a general City of Eugene business license to operate?
  No. Eugene does not require a one-size general business license for all businesses. You still must meet city zoning/building rules, pay the Eugene Community Safety Payroll Tax if applicable, and get any industry-specific licenses. Start at the city’s main site: City of Eugene – Business/Permits.
• What is the Eugene Community Safety Payroll Tax and does it apply to me?
  It’s a local payroll tax on work performed in Eugene, plus a tax on Eugene-based self-employment. Employer, employee, and self-employed rates vary and are tiered. See the official rate chart and calculator: City of Eugene – CSPT.
• What are the Oregon Secretary of State filing fees?
  LLC formation $100, corporation $100, DBA (ABN) $50, annual report (LLC/corp) $100. Source: Oregon SOS – Fees.
• Do I have to pay the Lane Transit District payroll/self-employment tax?
  If you pay wages or have self-employment income within the LTD district (Eugene/Springfield area), yes. Current rates and maps are at Oregon DOR – Transit Taxes.
• When are Oregon CAT returns due?
  Annual returns are generally due by April 15. Tax applies to Oregon commercial activity above $1,000,000. Source: Oregon DOR – CAT.
• I’m opening a restaurant in Eugene. What’s first?
  Confirm zoning/use with the City, then coordinate building/hood, fire, and health plan review with Lane County Environmental Health. If serving alcohol, add OLCC. Expect 8–16+ weeks depending on build-out. See: Lane County – Food Safety; OLCC – Licensing.
• Do I need a home occupation permit?
  Many home businesses are allowed with limits. Some need a permit. Ask City Planning with your address and activities: City of Eugene – Planning.
• Does Airbnb/short‑term rental income require tax filing?
  Yes. State lodging tax 1.5% applies and the City of Eugene has a local Transient Room Tax. Platforms may remit some taxes, but you are responsible for registration and filing as required. See: Oregon DOR – Lodging Tax and City of Eugene – TRT.
• I’m a contractor. What do I need?
  Oregon CCB license (most work types), two‑year fee $325, required surety bond (e.g., residential general $20,000), liability insurance, and workers’ comp if you have employees. Source: Oregon CCB – Licensing and Bonds/Insurance.
• Who can help me for free?
  Lane Small Business Development Center provides no‑cost advising. Website: Lane SBDC. Phone: 541-463-6200.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you don’t see your question here, use the Oregon License Directory to pull all state and local requirements by business type: Oregon License Directory. You can also call the SBDC for live guidance.

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Tables you can use as checklists

Which approvals do I need for common Eugene businesses?

Oregon Secretary of State filing fees (common)

Core taxes you might owe in Eugene

Timeline planning by step

Who to call when stuck

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What to bring when you visit city counters (or call)

• Your site address and a plain‑language summary of your business.
• Any drawings or floor plans (even rough); photos of the space; equipment lists.
• Your desired opening date (be realistic).
• Your entity info (SOS number), EIN (if obtained), and contact details.
• Questions written down: “Is my use allowed?”, “Will I need a new Certificate of Occupancy?”, “Do I need a sign permit?”, “What inspections are needed before opening?”

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you can’t get an in-person meeting quickly, ask for a virtual or phone intake, or email your materials to the address provided on the PIC page and request a callback with all reviewers on the line.

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“What if I’m just freelancing from home?”

• Register your DBA if you use a business name; otherwise, you can operate under your legal name without a DBA. SOS fees: DBA $50 for two years.
• EIN is optional if you’re a sole proprietor with no employees and your bank doesn’t require it; many banks still prefer an EIN. EIN is $0 from the IRS.
• Check Eugene’s home occupation standards; most low‑impact freelancing is allowed without heavy permits.
• Taxes: You may owe LTD self‑employment tax if you’re within the transit district and CSPT if you’re considered self‑employed with a Eugene place of business—check the official pages and your CPA.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you run into home occupation limits (e.g., on-site clients, parking), consider co‑working or a small office in a properly zoned area.

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“What if I’m hiring my first employee?”

• Register for Oregon payroll (withholding/UI/Paid Leave), LTD transit tax, and Eugene CSPT. Use a payroll provider that supports Oregon local taxes.
• Set up workers’ comp before the start date (required). SAIF is a good starting point: SAIF – Workers’ comp for small business.
• Oregon labor rules (wage, overtime, breaks) are enforced by BOLI. Review posters and requirements: Oregon BOLI – Employer requirements.
• New hire reporting and I‑9 compliance apply. See USCIS – I‑9 and Oregon new hire reporting via the Department of Justice: Oregon New Hire Reporting.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If payroll is confusing, use a provider (ask specifically about LTD and CSPT). BOLI can answer wage and hour questions; consult an HR professional for handbooks and policies.

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What to do if you’re on a tight budget

• Start with an LLC ($100) and EIN ($0) if you need the liability shield; otherwise, operate as a sole proprietor with a DBA ($50) and add an LLC when revenue justifies it.
• Avoid build-outs if possible. Choose spaces with existing plumbing/hoods if you’re in food service. Negotiate tenant improvement allowances with your landlord.
• Use SBDC advising (free) and community resources for planning, finance, and licensing.
• Phase your plan: open without alcohol first; add off‑premises beer/wine later if margins support OLCC costs.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Consider a pop‑up or shared kitchen to test demand before a full build-out. Look for microloans or crowd-lending with technical assistance through SBDC partners.

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What to do if this still feels overwhelming

• Book a single “routing” appointment with Lane SBDC and ask them to map your steps, contacts, and timelines. Bring this guide; they’ll help tailor it to your case.
• Ask the City of Eugene PIC for a pre‑application meeting that includes everyone you’ll need (Planning, Building, Fire). It reduces surprises.
• For regulated industries (food, alcohol, child care, contractors), call the state agency first and ask for the pre‑opening checklist.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you hit repeated dead ends, escalate respectfully: ask for a supervisor or ombudsperson, or request written guidance you can follow step‑by‑step.

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About This Guide

• Purpose: give Eugene business owners a single, practical place to see what’s required, where to go, and what it costs, with official links.
• Sources: Every fee and rule above points to official city, county, state, or federal websites. Where exact rates change annually (e.g., Eugene CSPT brackets, LTD transit rates, Paid Leave Oregon), this guide links directly to the official rate pages and calculators to avoid outdated figures.
• Currency: This guide is labeled “Last updated: August 2025.” Agency pages and rates can change mid‑year. Always follow the amounts and deadlines on the official pages linked in each section.
• Feedback: If a link is broken or a rule has changed, please report it to the relevant agency contact on their site and share the correction with your advisor (SBDC or CPA) so your filings stay accurate.

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Disclaimer

This guide is for general information only and is not legal, tax, or accounting advice. Program rules, fees, rates, and deadlines change. Always verify requirements, amounts, and due dates directly with the City of Eugene, Lane County, the Oregon Secretary of State, the Oregon Department of Revenue, the Oregon Employment Department, the OLCC, and other agencies using the official links in this guide. If you have specific questions, consult a licensed professional (attorney or CPA) and contact the relevant agency before you file or pay.