Home Business Rules in Santa Monica, CA (2026)
Home business rules, permit requirements, and cottage food laws for Santa Monica, CA. Source-cited from official municipal code.
Whether Santa Monica, CA permits home-based businesses has not been confirmed — see the official source before starting operations.
Whether Santa Monica, CA permits home-based businesses has not been confirmed from an official source. Contact the local building department through their official website to verify current home business regulations — including whether home occupations are permitted at all and what permits or licenses may apply — before starting operations. Some home business activities may be permitted with a variance or conditional use permit — contact the planning department for guidance.
Permit Requirements
Whether a permit is required to operate a home-based business in Santa Monica has not been confirmed from an official source. Contact the local building department through their official website to verify current permit requirements before starting operations. State professional licensing requirements may still apply regardless of city permit rules.
Operating Restrictions
No specific restrictions listed beyond standard building code requirements for Santa Monica home-based businesses.
Cottage Food Law
Whether cottage food production is permitted in Santa Monica has not been confirmed from an official source. Contact the local planning department through their official website to verify current cottage food law provisions before starting a home-based food business.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I run a business from home in Santa Monica?
Yes, Santa Monica allows home-based businesses with a Santa Monica Business License (Home Occupation). The permit fee is $125.
What are the restrictions on home businesses in Santa Monica?
Key restrictions include: Business must be incidental to residential use — Santa Monica strictly enforces this. No customers visiting the home (no walk-in business). No non-resident employees on premises.
Can I sell food from my home in Santa Monica?
Yes, under cottage food laws you can sell certain homemade foods. The annual revenue limit is $75,000.
Source: Santa Monica Municipal Code Chapter 6.04 — Business License; Chapter 9.21.130 — Home Occupations. Last verified April 6, 2026. View source