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Home Occupation Permit Application Checklist

Print this checklist before you contact your city's planning department or file your application. Having everything prepared in advance reduces back-and-forth and speeds up approval.

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Part 1 — Business Information to Prepare

Have these details ready before contacting your city's planning department.

Part 2 — Questions to Ask Your Planning Department

Ask these questions before or during your application appointment. Write the answers in the notes space below.

Is my business type allowed as a home occupation in my residential zone?
Which permit tier applies — Minor or Major home occupation?
What is the current application fee and annual renewal fee?
How many client visits per day am I allowed?
What are the permitted operating hours?
Is neighbor notification required as part of this process?
Will there be an on-site inspection before approval?
Is a separate general business license also required from the city?
When does the permit expire, and how do I renew it?
If I rent, is my landlord's written consent required with the application?

Notes / Answers:

Part 3 — Documents to Gather Before Filing

Most applications require some combination of the following. Check each one as you gather it.

Part 4 — Additional Requirements by Occupation Type

Some business types require additional permits or licenses beyond the home occupation permit. Check any that apply.

Business Type	Additional Requirement	Issued By
Hairstylist / Nail Tech / Esthetician	Cosmetology Establishment License + on-site inspection	State Board of Cosmetology
Massage Therapist	Massage Establishment Permit	State or county licensing board
Home Daycare	Family Daycare Home License	State childcare licensing agency
Food / Baked Goods / Cottage Food	Cottage Food Registration or Food Handler Permit	County health department
Cosmetics / Body Products	FDA labeling compliance + possible state registration	FDA / State dept. of health
Dog Grooming / Animal Services	Animal Services Business Permit (some cities)	City animal control / licensing
Therapist / Counselor	State professional license (separate from permit)	State licensing board
All Business Types	General Business License (city tax registration)	City business licensing office

After You're Approved

Keep your permit posted or on file at your home business location. Notify your homeowner's insurer about your home business — your standard policy likely excludes business-related liability. Set a renewal reminder 60 days before your permit's expiration date. Apply for any state-level occupational licenses your business type requires from the relevant state board.

This checklist is for general informational purposes only. Requirements vary by city and county. Always verify current requirements with your local planning department.