Home Business in Memphis, TN (2026)
6 verified home business rules for Memphis, Tennessee, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Zoning Restrictions
Memphis allows home occupations in residential zones subject to use, customer-traffic, and employee limits. The business must be secondary to the residential use, generate no external evidence, and employ only residents plus typically one non-resident employee.
Home Business Zoning Rules in Memphis
Some RestrictionsSignage Rules
Memphis restricts home-occupation signage to small identification signs, typically 1 square foot, non-illuminated, and attached to the dwelling. Freestanding signs, illuminated signs, and signs larger than permitted are prohibited in residential zones.
Home Business Signage Rules in Memphis
Heavy RestrictionsCustomer Traffic Restrictions
Memphis home occupations must minimize customer visits and may not generate traffic beyond normal residential patterns. Typical limits allow client visits by appointment only, with adequate off-street parking and limited hours of operation.
Home Business Customer Traffic Rules in Memphis
Some RestrictionsCottage Food Operations
Tennessee Code §43-28 authorizes cottage food production of non-hazardous foods in home kitchens for direct sale to consumers. Memphis producers must follow labeling rules, stay within annual sales limits, and cannot sell to restaurants or through resellers. Sales to end consumers are allowed in person and online within Tennessee.
Cottage Food Rules in Memphis
Some RestrictionsHome Daycare
Tennessee Department of Human Services licenses home-based childcare. Memphis family home daycares caring for 5 or more unrelated children must be state-licensed and meet local zoning. Home daycares with 4 or fewer children operate under reduced regulation but must follow safety basics.
Home Daycare Rules in Memphis
Heavy RestrictionsHome Occupation Permits
Memphis requires a home-occupation permit or business license for most home-based businesses. Applications go through the Business Tax Office and are routed through Zoning for compliance review. Fees are modest and the permit renews annually with Memphis business tax.