Home Business in Redmond, WA: What Residents Actually Need to Know
If you live in Redmond or are thinking about moving there, home business are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. Redmond has 6 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of home business, and some of them might surprise you.
Signage Rules
Redmond prohibits exterior commercial signs for home occupations in residential zones under RMC 21.08.090 and RMC Chapter 21.60 Sign Code, preserving residential character.
Key details: Exterior Business Sign: Prohibited. Home Occupation Code: RMC 21.08.090. Sign Code: RMC 21.60. Illuminated Signs: Not allowed. Commercial Vehicle Signs: Parking limits apply.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
This is not one of those rules that cities tend to ignore. Redmond actively enforces its signage rules requirements.
Customer Traffic Restrictions
Home occupations in Redmond are limited to minimal customer visits under RMC 21.08.090, typically restricted to one client appointment at a time by appointment only with no walk-in traffic.
Key details: Max Simultaneous Clients: Typically 1 family. Appointment Rule: By appointment only. Code: RMC 21.08.090. Walk-In Retail: Prohibited. Licensed Daycare: Allowed with state license.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Home Occupation Permits
Redmond allows home occupations as accessory uses under RZC 21.08. A business license is always required; a home occupation permit is needed when the business has employees, clients, or external impacts.
Key details: Code: RZC 21.08. Max Floor Area: 25% of dwelling. Business License: Required. Signage: 2 sq ft, non-illuminated. Contact: Planning (425) 556-2441.
Operating without a home occupation permit when required: civil penalty up to $500 per day under RMC 1.14. Failure to maintain a business license: RMC 5.04.
Cottage Food Operations
Home food businesses in Redmond operate under the Washington Cottage Food Operations Law (RCW 69.22) which allows limited home-baked and non-potentially hazardous foods with WSDA permit up to $25,000 annual gross sales.
Key details: State Law: RCW 69.22. WSDA Permit: Required. Annual Sales Cap: $25,000. Allowed Foods: Baked goods, jams, candies. Prohibited: Meat, dairy, canned vegetables.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Zoning Restrictions
Redmond allows home occupations in residential zones under RMC 21.08.090 as accessory uses, with limits on floor area, outside employees, signage, and customer visits to preserve neighborhood character.
Key details: Code: RMC 21.08.090. Max Area: 25% of dwelling. Non-Resident Employees: Limited (typically 0-1). License: FileLocal business license. Retail Sales: Generally prohibited.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Home Daycare
Redmond permits family home child care in residential zones under RCW 35.63.185. Providers need a DCYF state license and a Redmond business license. RZC 21.08 home occupation rules apply.
Key details: State Law: RCW 35.63.185 permits in residential. Max Children: 12 (licensed family home). License: DCYF required. City Code: RZC 21.08. City Contact: Redmond (425) 556-2900.
Operating without a DCYF license: state investigation, potential closure, and fines under RCW 43.216. Operating without a city business license: civil penalties under RMC Chapter 1.14.
The Bottom Line
Redmond'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 Redmond is broadly strict or permissive.
This guide is based on Redmond's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.