How Auburn Handles Home Business: A Practical Guide
Auburn maintains 115 local ordinances across all categories, and 6 of those deal specifically with home business. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where Auburn falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.
Home Occupation Permits
Auburn allows home occupations in residential zones under ACC 18.60 when they remain clearly incidental to the residential use. A business license and compliance with strict performance standards are required.
Key details: Code section: ACC 18.60. Business license: Required. Floor area limit: ~25 percent of dwelling. On-site customers: Limited. Prohibited uses: Auto repair, kennels, clinics.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Zoning Restrictions
Auburn allows home occupations in all residential zones under ACC 18.60. Must be incidental, resident-operated, max one non-resident employee. An Auburn Business License is required.
Key details: Code: ACC 18.60. Max Floor Area: 25 percent of home. Outside Employees: 1 maximum. Business License: Required. Allowed Zones: All residential zones.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Signage Rules
Auburn prohibits home occupation exterior signage under ACC 18.60. No yard, window, or banner signs for a home business. One nameplate up to 1 sq ft showing the occupants name is the only exception.
Key details: Home Occ Signs: Prohibited on property. Nameplate: 1 sq ft occupants name. Vehicle Signs: Allowed if used off-site. Code: ACC 18.60 and 18.56. Fine: Up to $250 per day.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Home Daycare
Family home daycares are allowed as accessory uses in Auburn residential zones under ACC 18.07 when state-licensed through DCYF per WAC 110-300. Providers must meet fire, safety, and zoning standards.
Key details: Max children (family home): 12 per WAC 110-300. State license: DCYF required. Zoning status: Permitted accessory use. City business license: Required. Sign limit: 2 sq ft, non-illuminated.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Customer Traffic Restrictions
Auburn limits home business customer visits under ACC 18.60 to traffic levels no greater than a residence: max 4 clients per day with no more than 2 at once. Deliveries limited to standard vehicles.
Key details: Max Clients Per Day: 4 visits. Max Concurrent: 2 at one time. Parking: On-site required. Deliveries: Standard vehicles only. Code: ACC 18.60.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
This is one of the stricter rules in Auburn's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.
Cottage Food Operations
Auburn follows WA Cottage Food Law RCW 69.22. Home food producers may sell up to $25,000/year of approved low-risk foods direct to consumers after WSDA permit. Auburn Business License is also required.
Key details: State Law: RCW 69.22. Annual Cap: $25,000 gross sales. Permit Agency: WSDA. Approved Foods: Low-risk only. Auburn License: Required.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
The Bottom Line
Auburn's home business rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Auburn is broadly strict or permissive.
Keep in mind that Auburn can amend these rules at any council meeting. For the most current version of any rule mentioned here, check the specific ordinance page, where we track updates as they happen.