Zoning Glossary

Home Occupation Permit

A home occupation permit is a formal authorization from a city's planning or zoning department that allows a resident to operate a business from their home address. The permit documents the nature of the business activities and certifies that the operation complies with applicable home occupation ordinance requirements. Not every city requires a standalone permit — some jurisdictions regulate home occupations through zoning code provisions that apply automatically without a separate application.

Land Use

In Practice

Where required, a home occupation permit application is typically reviewed administratively without a public hearing for standard home businesses. The permit may need to be updated if business activities change significantly. Businesses that require client or customer visits, generate noise or odors, or employ outside workers often cannot qualify under standard home occupation permit conditions and must instead operate from a commercial location.

Related Terms

Related Guides

Source: PropertyZoned Zoning Guide — Can You Run a Business From Home? Zoning Rules by City. Last verified April 5, 2026.

Last updated: April 5, 2026
Home Occupation Permit — Zoning Term Definition | PropertyZoned