Business Information
Architectural Requirements: Building and sign projects within the Architectural Preservation District and the Corridor Protection Districts are subject to approval by the City's Architectural Review Board. The ARB has published a set of Design Review Guidelines to remove the mystery from the design review process and to ensure that ARB decisions are objective and consistent.
Building Requirements: As a part of the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code (or USBC), criteria were established for building permits. In addition to permits for new construction, there are permits for renovation, demolition, plumbing, gas, mechanical, electrical, fire protection and asbestos removal. The Codes Compliance Office provides a list of frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the code complaince process. Inspection Requests may be made online.
Door-to-Door Solicitation: The City of Williamsburg requires all persons that go from place-to-place or house-to-house in the city for the purpose of selling or taking orders for or offering to sell or take orders for goods, wares or merchandise, or any article for future delivery, or for services to be performed in the future, needs to obtain a "Solicitor Permit" from the Williamsburg Police Department.
Purchasing: The City's purchasing system operates under the direction and supervision of the City Manager. The Purchasing Agent acts as the City's principal public purchasing official and is responsible for the purchase of goods, services, insurance and construction, except where such authority has been assigned or delegated to other persons. The Purchasing Office issues Invitations for Bids and Requests for Proposals for City goods and services and for construction projects. This list is updated on an as needed basis.
Signage: In order to install a building-mounted or freestanding sign, a business must make an application to the Architectural Review Board, which will evaluate the sign for compliance with the City's Requirements for Signage. The Williamsburg Economic Development Authority offers a sign replacement grant program that assists local businesses and property owners who wish to bring their existing signs into compliance with the signage requirements.
Taxes: The Commissioner of the Revenue assesses local business taxes as well as room, meal, and other taxes.
Tour Guides: The City of Williamsburg requires the testing and licensing of tour guides operating in the restored area of the city.
The College of William and Mary: W&M is located in Williamsburg with an enrollment of approximately 7,650 students. A study produced by the Sharpe Community Scholar partnership suggests some opportunities for businesses targeted at the City's student population. The W&M Technology and Business Center was created to enhance the Greater Williamsburg economy by supporting technology entrepreneurs and businesses through a network of support services, systematically connecting business owners, visionaries, and inventors with other technology startups and executives. The Center helps these companies by providing a system of support services that includes mentorship and community building, facilitated access to financial and management expertise, infrastructure support, and timely information about government and private programs and research.