Home Occupation / Business Violations

Can you start a business from your home? Many residents operate businesses from their homes giving small local business a place to start. These uses need the proper permits. Uses fall under two categories: 

• Home Businesses
• Home Occupations

Home Occupations

Home Occupations are carried on by the homeowner with no employees and the area used is restricted to 25% or less of the living space. Examples are professional services like accountants, real estate agents, artists, music studio, tailors, tutors or counselors. This use requires a Basic Use Permit (PDF) and is handled administratively by the Planning Staff. Please check with your CC&Rs first as some subdivisions do not allow home businesses.

Home Businesses

Home Businesses are the next step up where the homeowner has 1 to 3 employees and the space dedicated to the business is 25% or less of the living space and part or all of the outbuildings. Examples are contracting businesses, offices, music, art or other schools, art studios or galleries. In most residential areas, a Conditional Use Permit (PDF) is required, which includes public hearings before the Planning Commission and Board of County Commissioners.