Taunton's Home Business: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles home business a little differently. In Taunton, Massachusetts, there are 3 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.

Zoning Restrictions

Taunton regulates home occupations under Chapter 440 (Zoning Ordinance). Home businesses are classified as accessory uses in residential districts. Applications for accessory business uses are submitted to the City Planner. Specific conditions vary by zoning district.

Key details: Code: Ch. 440 Zoning Ordinance. Classification: Accessory use in residential districts. Application: Submit to City Planner. Contact: Planning and Conservation Dept.

Operating without permit: cease-and-desist. Zoning violations: $100 to $300/day. Building inspector enforcement.

Signage Rules

Taunton's zoning ordinance restricts signage for home occupations in residential districts. Home businesses must not alter the residential character of the premises through exterior signs or displays. Sign regulations are enforced by the Zoning Enforcement Officer.

Key details: Signs: Restricted in residential districts. Character: Residential character must be maintained. Enforcement: Zoning Enforcement Officer. Zoning: Ch. 440.

Sign removal order. Home occupation permit revocation risk. Code enforcement fines $50 to $300.

Compared to other cities, Taunton takes a harder line on signage rules. The enforcement and penalty structure reflects that.

Customer Traffic Restrictions

Taunton's zoning ordinance regulates customer traffic for home occupations. Home businesses must not generate traffic beyond what is typical for the residential district. Special permits may be required for home occupations with significant customer visits.

Key details: Traffic: Must not exceed residential character. Special Permit: May be required. Authority: Board of Appeals / Planning Board. Parking: Off-street requirements apply.

Excessive traffic complaints: permit review. Permit revocation for repeated violations. Cease-and-desist order.

The Bottom Line

Taunton'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 Taunton is broadly strict or permissive.

Keep in mind that Taunton 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.