AboutJessica Sparks Expertise Questions about the paintball sport itself, from recreational ball through speedball and competition play; how to play the game, from basic to advanced tactics; paintball equipment; how to start a paintball field or store; and about the business of paintball.
Experience
Experience Nearly 20 years in the sport as a player (national level competition and recreational/scenario play), writer, photographer, activist for the sport, and magazine editor.
Publications Have written for/edited Action Pursuit Games magazine, Paintball magazine, and many other magazines, newsletters, web sites, newspaper articles, videos, video scripts, and books. Expert; consultant.
Expert: Jessica Sparks Date: 5/10/2008 Subject: opening a field
Question Hey I have been doing some research in regards as to how to open a Paintball facility in my area. I'm a first time entrepreneur and am not exactly sure where to start when it comes to the zoning and other legalities. Any help with finding this information would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks in advance,
Chad
Answer This is only a starting point. There's a lot more to think about.
You can start with finding land you think will work. Look for access, etc. Not every place (believe it or not) has zoning - not every place is regulated - in those places you'd be fairly free to use common sense and design your facility. Other places, visit the local zoning office and inquire about the zoning for the properties you have in mind. Instead of saying what you want to do, first ask what is allowed. It's not good for the long term to start a relationship with zoning officials by arguing with them.
Ask what the zoning is. Read the regulations for what is allowed on the property (properties) you have in mind. These should be available to read. Something zoned Residential is not going to work. Recreational might. It depends.
At this point, or even before if you think you want professional assistance sooner, visit your lawyer. If you find out early that you're likely to have zoning struggles, ask the lawyer about the cost to go through the zoning process. It can get very expensive. Might be better off to find land elsewhere.
Be aware: worse than going through this process is to open a field only to get shut down. Failure to comply with zoning regs creates a disaster.
The regular business considerations will be there. Sales tax and business licenses, if required. Insurance of various kinds. Etc. Usually it is a good idea to consult with a CPA early on. If you're going to seek financing, a banker should be in the picture.
Before you buy or lease, even if you think you have the zoning taken care of, best is to consult with your lawyer. Some of the most successful businesses have lawyers on board who play paintball.
