NFIB

Learn About Zoning Requirements for Your Home-based Business
03/ 28/ 2002

If you're thinking of moving your business inside your home, or if you're already working from a home-based business, it's helpful to learn all you can about zoning ordinances for your area. If you find that your zoning doesn't allow businesses similar to yours in residential areas, you can take steps to change the zoning in your favor, as described in today's Workshop by contributor Jeffrey Moses.

The first step is to contact the zoning or planning board for your city or county. You can usually find the listing in the government section of your phone book. If that particular department isn't listed, make a few calls to other departments, asking for zoning information, and you'll be steered toward the proper department.

Find out what zoning laws apply to businesses in your area. You may find that your area allows certain types of businesses, or that no businesses of any kind are allowed. If your area fits into the first category, describe your type of business and give a general idea of the block and street it will be on. If your type of business is allowed, ask if any permits or licenses are required. Take care of these as quickly as possible to avoid future complications if zoning regulations change.

If your type of business is not permitted in your area, you may be able to request a variance. Historically, zoning boards have been reluctant to grant variances, and may require you to meet before a board or even attend a public hearing. Don't be discouraged, though. The mood of the country is changing, and home-based businesses are being viewed more positively because of their growing importance to the economy.

When requesting a variance, be prepared to present the following information:

1. Show how your business will have minimal impact on the well-being of the neighborhood, primarily in terms of customer parking, noise and unsightliness of equipment or workspace.

2. Show employee parking will not interfere with the parking of neighbors or be unsightly.

3. Show that your commercial sign, if you have one, will not be an eyesore to the neighborhood. Such a sign may be a major source of aggravation for many neighbors, who may fear that it could lower property values.

4. Speak with your neighbors and describe your plans to them. Many of them will feel better about the situation knowing your plans for parking, signage, outside working, etc. If possible, collect signatures from neighbors on your street and adjoining streets stating that they are aware of your business and do not object.

5. You may want to contact other home-based businesses in and near your area, and form a coalition with the express purpose of changing existing zoning ordinances. Petitions with 15 to 20 names of business owners near you can help show that you're not alone in your request.

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