Home Business in Federal Way, WA (2026)
3 verified home business rules for Federal Way, Washington, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Zoning & Home Occupation Permits
Federal Way allows home occupations in any residential zone under FWRC 19.270.030, provided the business runs from the owner's residence, is staffed by a resident family member, avoids outside storage, and keeps its accessory structure under 1,000 square feet. Businesses that cannot meet every standard can apply for process III approval instead.
Federal Way Home Occupation Zoning Rules
Some RestrictionsFWRC 19.270.010; FWRC 19.270.030; FWRC 19.270.050
19.270.010 Application. The regulations of this chapter apply to every residential use within the city. 19.270.030 Home occupation. (1) A home occupation is permitted if it meets all of the following requirements: (a) The structure in which the business is located must be located on the same subject property as the primary residence of the business owner. (b) The business must be carried on by ...
Customer Traffic Restrictions
Federal Way caps a home-based business at four visitors a day. FWRC 19.270.030(1)(f) bars any home occupation from having more than four persons per day come to the property for goods or services, on top of requiring the business run inside the residence with no outside storage or exterior signs of commercial activity.
Federal Way Home Business Visitor Limit
Some RestrictionsFWRC 19.270.030(1)(f)
19.270.030 Home occupation. (1) A home occupation is permitted if it meets all of the following requirements: (a) The structure in which the business is located must be located on the same subject property as the primary residence of the business owner. (b) The business must be carried on by a family member(s) who resides on the same subject property. (f) The use must not include more than four...
Home Daycare
Federal Way permits family home child care in single-family homes. State-licensed providers caring for 12 or fewer children are allowed under RCW 35.63.185 and Federal Way Revised Code Title 19 zoning.
Federal Way Family Home Child Care Rules
Some RestrictionsRCW 35.63.185 - Family day-care provider's home facility — City may not prohibit in residential or commercial area — Conditions
RCW 35.63.185 Family day-care provider's home facility — City may not prohibit in residential or commercial area — Conditions. (1) Except as provided in subsections (2) and (3) of this section, no city may enact, enforce, or maintain an ordinance, development regulation, zoning regulation, or official control, policy, or administrative practice that prohibits the use of a residential dwelling, ...
Looking for King County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Federal Way city rules.
Home Business in King County →