Home Business Rules in El Paso, TX (2026)

In El Paso, TX, home-based businesses are permitted subject to specific rules designed to preserve residential character while allowing residents to run legitimate businesses from their homes. A Home Occupation License is required before operating. The local building department or local planning department handles home occupation applications and enforcement. Regulations generally prohibit on-site employees, customer visits, and any external evidence of business activity. Below you will find the current permit requirements, restrictions, prohibited business types, and cottage food law provisions for El Paso.

Permit Requirements

Permit Required: Home Occupation License. Fee: varies. Apply through the local building department. Phone: (915) 212-0104. Permits typically must be renewed annually. Operating without a required home occupation permit can result in fines and a requirement to cease business activity immediately.

Operating Restrictions

No specific restrictions listed beyond standard building code requirements for El Paso home-based businesses.

• •Business must be incidental to residential use
• •No customer or client visits in most residential zones
• •No exterior signage indicating business
• •No non-resident employees on premises
• •No storage of business equipment or vehicles visible from street
• •Business use limited to 25% of dwelling gross floor area
• •No mechanical equipment creating noise, odors, or vibration

Cottage Food Law

Frequently Asked Questions