Can I Run a Business Out of My Home in a Residential Zoning Area?
Generally, most counties or cities are zoned such that commercial offices can only exist in certain places, manufacturers are restricted to another place, and the rest is saved for residential homes. It can become a sticky issue when you decide to run a commercial business out of your home. Most of the time you can run a business out of your home as long as it complies with a few guidelines: - It must be a non-polluting business
- The home must still be used primarily for residential purposes
- The business must not affect your neighbors in any negative way
Still, there are some areas where the zoning laws are so strict that they don¿t allow any type of business to operate in a residential area. There are several things you can do to make sure operating your home business is not a zoning violation in your city or county: - Obtain a copy of your local zoning ordinances from the county/city clerk¿s office or your local public library. These ordinances should help explain whether you are allowed to operate a business out of your home, and whether there are any limits or restrictions on the type of business.
- You can also make an appointment to meet the local zoning and planning department. If you already are running a business from home, meeting with the zoning and planning department can be risky because they may try and shut down your business.
So first, check your local ordinances, and only if you cannot find your answer there go to zoning official What Can I Do If My Home Business is Not Approved By Ordinance or Zoning Officials?
You can always appeal to the city council or county board of supervisors. Try to get your neighbors¿ support when you go through this appeals process to show that your business is not adversely affecting anyone else. You may also be able to get an overly strict zoning ordinance amended or a zoning board decision overturned. Can a Lawyer Help Me Determine if I Can Run a Business from Home?
Running a business out of your home can be difficult. An experienced real property lawyer can help you understand your cities zoning laws and how they apply to your home business. A real property attorney can also help you appeal a zoning board decision or challenge a zoning law. |
