Business Resources

ESD ScenariosAs the COVID-19 outbreak continues, Issaquah is committed to supporting local businesses with resources, information, promotion, regional collaboration and more. Sign up for the Economic Development Department’s Newsletter to stay up to date on changing information and resources.

Directive to Wear Face Coverings

Public Health – Seattle & King County issued a directive, which starts May 18, to wear face coverings in most public settings.

Businesses are required to post signage advising individuals to wear face coverings on the premises.

Everyone is strongly urged to wear face coverings in places such as:

  • Stores that sell food and beverages (including: grocery stores, pharmacies, corner stores, convenience stores, liquor stores, farmers’ markets, food banks, farm and produce stands, supermarkets, big box stores that sell groceries, and similar places that sell food).
  • Retail stores (including: convenience stores, pet supply stores, auto supplies and repair shops, hardware and home improvement stores, garden stores that sell supplies for growing food, office supply stores, and home appliance stores).
  • Restaurant take-out and food businesses. Employees who prepare, carry out, and deliver food must wear masks.
  • Cannabis shops and stores that sell dietary supplements.
  • Tobacco and vapor shops.
  • Buses, light rail and other forms of public transportation.

Learn more, and read a full FAQ, online.

Support Eastside Businesses

Thanks to the Startup 425 partnership, a map has been created to assist residents with seeing which businesses are open.

Business owners can help update the map with their information.

Issaquah Business Social Media Group

Issaquah businesses have created an informal Facebook group to share resources. 

  1. Doing Business During COVID-19
  2. FAQs
  3. Financial resources
  4. Temporary closures
  5. Virtual Assistance

Reopening Your Business

Governor Inslee extended the "Stay Home, Stay Healthy" and provided an overview of the four phase plan to reopen businesses and other activities. View the State’s reopening guidance for industry specifics. Questions about your unique or specific business operations should be directed here.

Reopening your business will not only be specific to your business type, but also the size of your business, how you operate and several other factors. You can begin planning for your business reopening by reviewing these resources:

Technical Assistance

Understanding the new financial resources and how to best keep your business viable during this time can be challenging. Professional business advisers are available to help you at no-cost.

Change for To-Go and Delivery Cocktails

Starting May 6, 2020, licensed restaurants and bars can sell sealed mixed drinks with a full meal for takeout and delivery. This allowance will expire 30 days after the county, where the business is located, enters Phase 4 of Washington’s recovery plan.

Summary:

  • A complete meal must be ordered with the cocktail order. (Ex: Entrée with side dish);
  • Cocktail must be an approved ‘sealed’ container with a secured lid;
  • If delivered, driver must be at least 21 years old AND is employee of business with a MAST permit;
  • Must guarantee person receiving order is at least 21 years old;
  • Pre-mixed drinks must be delivered in the trunk of a vehicle, or in location beyond reach of the driver;
  • This allowance expires 30 days after county (where business located) enters Phase 4 of Washington’s recovery plan;
  • Lastly, the below notice must be posted in whatever manner is necessary to ensure delivery driver, and/or consumer is given notice:

“Pre-mixed alcoholic beverages that are packaged by this establishment may not be consumed in a motor vehicle or transported in a motor vehicle except in the vehicle’s trunk; or, if there is no trunk, in some other area of the vehicle not normally occupied by the driver or passengers (this does not include a utility compartment or glove compartment, but may include underneath a seat outside of the driver’s reach). RCW 46.61.519.”

Tax Relief

  • Mayor Pauly signed a proclamation providing relief to small businesses in Issaquah by extending the deadline for Business & Occupation (B&O) taxes.
  • Washington State Department of Revenue is offering filing extensions and penalty waivers for state-level B&O taxes. Eligible businesses can get more information and apply here.
  • King County property tax information can be obtained and provide information specific to your location.
  • Internal Revenue Service has announced an extension of the April 15 tax filing and payment deadline to July 15, regardless of the amount owed. Additional information can be obtained on the IRS website.

Creative Industries

State and Regional Resources

Learn more about public health best practices and other programs available for businesses.

Waste Collection: Reduction Needs?

  • Recology: If you anticipate a reduced need for collection service or have questions about alternative payment options, please contact Recology at 425-837-1234.
  • Cedar Grove Compost: With the recent restrictions put on businesses and establishments, please review your options. Additional questions for Cedar Grove can be sent to a representative at 877-994-4466.

Contact Us

Need further assistance? Please contact the City’s Economic Development team.

Sign up for the Economic Development Department’s Newsletter to stay up to date on changing information and resources. Read past issues.