32 Small Businesses 'Open for Business' in May 2021

Thirty-two businesses received a ‘Certificate of Occupancy’ or official letter to ‘Open for Business’ from the Department of Development Services’ Small Business Project Management Program in May 2021.

The small business types range from auto care, beauty & spa services, health/home care services, home improvement contractors, professional services, grocery, retail, and restaurants. As diverse as the range of business types are, each month tells a new success story, with a unique line up of new business products and services.

In May, the focus on local again came in strong with more diversity in grocery and dining options. Pepper Palace, Mr. Big's Seafood, Lara's Desserts and two new Halal meat and gourmet stores, are on our growing list of places to go!

And, worthy of mentioning again, April served up five new restaurants, as diverse and flavorful as their uniquely spiced foods, for resident and visitors to the County. It's well worth a trip to congratulate these bright new entrepreneurs and enjoy the fare at:

Cedar Bay Authentic Lebanese Cuisine at Somerset Crossing, in Gainesville;

Craftworx Taproom, on Wellington Road in Gainesville;

District BBQ at Bristow Center in Bristow;

My Empanadas at Manassas Mall Food Court in Manassas; and

Pho Golden Xpress, on Route 1 in Woodbridge.

Requirements to start and operate a food service establishment are quite complex and necessary to ensure public safety, so that the restaurant meets all health codes related to food storage, preparation, temperature controls and sanitation.

“Safety regulations involve both local and state authorities regarding the control of alcohol distribution, health safety, fire safety, zoning, and planning requirements, as well as other appropriate business licenses to operate and be insured. A restaurant owner must submit plans and obtain a building permit for new construction, remodeling or adding new food preparation areas.” said Director of the Department of Development Services, Wade A. Hugh.

The Department of Development Services is responsible for ensuring compliance with the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code by reviewing commercial and residential construction plans, issuing permits, inspecting structures, and enforcing building code requirements. The Department also manages the site and subdivision plan review and permit issuance process, administers the posting and releasing of bonds and escrows, and issues zoning permits.  

For more information log onto the new Development Services homepage at www.pwcva.gov, email: [email protected] or call (703) 792-6930.