Home Occupations
Starting a Home-Based Business in Buena Vista
Running a business from home can be a great way to turn your skills, hobbies, or professional services into an income while maintaining the character of your neighborhood. The City of Buena Vista allows many types of home occupations, provided they remain secondary to the home’s primary residential use and follow certain guidelines.
If you are considering starting a home-based business, we encourage you to review the FAQs and information below to understand the basic requirements and whether your business may qualify as a home occupation. When you are ready, you can download the full Home Occupation Guide & Application to begin the process.
Things to Know Before Starting a Home Business
What is a Home Occupation?
A home occupation is a business, profession, trade, or activity conducted from a residential property that generates income and remains secondary to the home’s residential use.
Examples may include:
- Professional services (consulting, bookkeeping, tutoring)
- Creative or craft businesses
- Personal services by appointment
- Online businesses or remote work
Are There Businesses NOT Allowed to Operate in a Residential Area?
Many home-based businesses are permitted, but certain types are not allowed in residential areas. Prohibited home occupations include:
- Adult businesses
- Kennels
- Private clubs or lodges
- Restaurants (except those associated with a Bed & Breakfast)
- Cannabis or CBD sales
- Automobile sales, repair, or towing businesses
- Waste collection or recycling facilities
If you are unsure whether your business type is permitted, the Community Development Department can help review your proposal.
How Much of My Home Can I Use for the Business?
Home occupations must remain secondary to the residential use of the property.
- No more than 30% of the home’s total square footage may be used for the business.
- If an accessory building is used (such as a garage or workshop), the total business space must still remain within this limit
Can I Have Employees at My Home Business?
Home occupations are generally intended to be run by people living in the home. However, the following are allowed:
- Up to one employee who does not live on the property, provided additional parking is available.
- Additional residents of the home working in the business
- Employees who work off-site and are not regularly present
Can Customers Visit My Home Business?
Customer visits are allowed but must be limited.
- Businesses may not operate as drop-in retail stores.
- Visits must be by appointment only
- No more than three customers at one time
- No more than twelve appointments per day
Are There Rules for Deliveries and Vehicles?
Yes. To maintain the residential character of neighborhoods:
- Only one vehicle may exceed 14,000 pounds
- Deliveries must occur between 9:00 AM and 6:00 PM
- Tractor-trailer deliveries are not allowed
- Only two business-related vehicles may operate from the property
Can I Display a Sign or Store Materials Outside?
There are some limitations intended to keep residential neighborhoods looking residential.
- The business may not create excessive noise, odors, dust, traffic, or other nuisances that would be unusual for a residential neighborhood.
- Only one small sign advertising the home business may be displayed.
- Business supplies, equipment, or materials may not be stored outside.
Ready to Apply?
If your proposed business meets the requirements above, the next step is to apply for approval from the City.
Step 1: Zoning Verification for Home Occupation
Before starting a home-based business, you must submit a Zoning Verification for Home Occupation Permit Application via the Online Permit Portal.. This review confirms that your proposed business meets the City’s zoning regulations.
Step 2: Complete the Home Occupation Application
The Home Occupation Guide & Application provides detailed information about the requirements and includes the application form needed to begin the process. Please complete this application and return it to Tom Roberts in the Community Development Office via email or in person.
➡ Download the Home Occupation Guide & Application
Step 3: Obtain a City Business License (If Required)
Many businesses operating in Buena Vista must also obtain a City business license through the Commissioner of the Revenue. If a business license is required for your type of business, it must be obtained after zoning approval and within the required timeframe.