Business Development

On May 1, 2008, the City of Belleville adopted Commercial Occupancy procedures, whereas each business that opens must first obtain a Commercial Occupancy Permit in the following instances: 

• Before a new business opens 
• When the owners of a business change
• When the owners of property that is used for a business change

In some instances, a Business License is required. Applicants submitting a Commercial Occupancy permit application must also submit a business license application for review. A license may or may not be issued, depending on the type of business.  

Business Assistance & Incentive Programs

The City financially assists businesses on a need and case-by-case basis.  There are many special districts (see list below) within the City that allow for different types of partnerships, depending on the particular district.  For more information on each of the districts, please click on the links below.

• Belleville Enterprise Zone Program(Map) The Enterprise Zone program includes a sales tax exemption on building materials and a potential property tax abatement.
• Tax Increment Financing Assistance Program (TIF) Districts (Map)  Tax Increment Financing incentives can include incremental property tax rebates and reimbursements on TIF eligible expenses, including facade improvements.
• Business Districts
• Special Service Area

If you have particular questions about this program or would like to make an appointment to discuss how this program can help your business, please contact the Economic Development and Planning Division at (618) 233-6810 x1250 to schedule an appointment.