How do I open a business within an existing structure in Southaven?
The general process for opening a business is a multi-step procedure that involves a few different City departments. We work together to make it more convenient for the applicant. The steps listed below are not all inclusive but rather a general guide for many businesses. Some might require other steps depending on the complexity, size, or hazard class of the occupancy.


a) The first step is to consult with the Planning and Zoning Department to verify that the intended use is allowed at the location that has been chosen. In addition other City ordinances that affect the surrounding occupancies must be evaluated. A conditional use hearing might be required to consider a permit for the proposed use of the location. The Planning and Zoning Department will provide a checklist verifying the use has been approved for that specific location. This is not an approval to occupy or begin any work whatsoever.

b) Immediately following verification from the Planning and Zoning Department the applicant must consult with the Building Department for details related to any construction and the Certificate of Occupancy that must be issued for occupancy of any location within the City of Southaven. A use and occupancy permit will be issued to allow preparation for the Use and Occupancy inspection. All construction trades contractors will apply for permits for their scopes of work individually and obtain the proper inspections for that work. The Fire Prevention Bureau of the Southaven Fire Department and the Building Department will inspect the location when all work is complete and the space is ready to occupy. All parties will sign the checklist to indicate that all inspections were completed.

The completed checklist and inspection forms must be brought to the Building Department to obtain the Certificate of Occupancy.

c) A business license can then be obtained from the City Clerk’s Office across the hall from the Building Department.

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1. Which Codes are currently adopted?
2. Which accessibility guidelines are adopted?
3. How do I open a business within an existing structure in Southaven?
4. What do I need to do if I want to build a fence?
5. What do I need to do if I want to build or install a ready-to-install shed?
6. What do I need to do if I want to install a swimming pool?
7. What kind of license do I need to do various trade works in Southaven?
8. How can I test for a license or renew an existing license?
9. What are all the inspections that should be called for during the commercial construction process of a new building?
10. When are construction plans required and what kind of plans do I need?
11. Where can I find the applications needed for various projects?
12. Do you accept credit card payments?
13. Do I have to pay all fees at the time plans are submitted for review?
14. What are the requirements for fire sprinklers?
15. Do I need to provide structural and non-structural seismic bracing in Southaven?
16. What is the process for building a single family residence?
17. Can I convert my detached garage into a living space?
18. How can I obtain a copy of a survey or plot plan for the purpose of submitting a permit application for construction of any type on my property?
19. What if I want to build my own home?
20. How can I schedule my inspections?