Lakewood has great infrastructure, highway access, simple permitting, available industrial properties, and development incentives. Lakewood is also a wholesome place to live with great schools and vibrant culture. Lakewood is a great place for big businesses, small businesses, and workers.
Becky Newton
Economic Development Manager
6000 Main St. SW, 3rd Floor
Lakewood, WA 98499
(253) 983-7738
[email protected]
Phones & Email:
Monday to Friday: 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Permit and Service Counter
Monday to Friday: 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Lakewood Business Survey
The Lakewood Department of Economic Development is looking for feedback from local businesses. Your feedback will help us determine what kinds of business resources are needed in Lakewood.
Announcements
The Community & Economic Development (CED) Department report examines our work in relation to the City Council’s adopted goals, objectives, and strategies over a 2 ½ year period from 2020 through July 2022.
The Economic Development Strategy Plan Draft is designed to promote and support a robust local economy. City Council goals for 2021-2024 include an adaptive and growing economy, a diversified and resilient economy, and an economy that supports local businesses and residents.
The Lakewood Permit Report was recently updated for Q1 2022. No signs of slowing as large warehousing and distribution projects continue, along with major housing development projects. Valuation is on par with 2020 and 2021.
Current Projects
Our Business Retention and Expansion (BRE) program is designed to:
- Retain or keep existing businesses in the community; and
- Provide assistance for existing businesses to expand.
BRE is applicable to all businesses in the community, from small mom-and-pop shops to large national employers and all industries, particularly trade-based or primary companies that bring in new dollars to the city, county, and state.
BRE and business attraction go hand in hand when developing a community. The City of Lakewood has three retail trade areas:
- Lakewood Towne Center
- International District
- Pacific Highway Transit-Oriented Commercial area on Pacific Highway adjacent to I-5.
Lakewood has a large industrial park and additional industrial lands available for development. Opportunities are abundant and many properties are ripe for redevelopment.
Lakewood has a wide range of affordable to high-end residential offerings. The City is focused on increasing the variety of living spaces such as live-work units, mixed residential, garden style living communities, and middle market homes.
View the Economic Vitality Strategy for information on our target areas for development.
Business Retention & Expansion reports
Common Questions
How do I get a business license in Lakewood?
- Businesses must obtain a state business license to operate a business in Washington. They must obtain a City of Lakewood business license to operate a business in Lakewood. Please use the Washington State Department of Revenue Business Licensing Service online portal. Visit the business licensing page for more information
How do I get a permit in Lakewood?
- Please visit our Permit Center for more information about permits in Lakewood.
Does Lakewood offer business incentives?
- Yes, Lakewood does offer business incentives. Please visit the Developing in Lakewood page to learn more.