Home Business in Minneapolis, MN (2026)
6 verified home business rules for Minneapolis, Minnesota, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Zoning Restrictions
Minneapolis allows home occupations in all residential districts under Chapter 536 of the zoning code. The 2040 Comprehensive Plan expanded residential business opportunities, and most professional home offices, tutoring, art studios, and online businesses operate as permitted accessory uses without special approval.
Home Business: Zoning
Few RestrictionsSignage Rules
Home occupations in Minneapolis are prohibited from displaying exterior signs identifying the business under Chapter 536. The ordinance explicitly requires that home businesses have no external evidence of commercial activity visible from the street or neighboring properties.
Home Business: Signage
Heavy RestrictionsCustomer Traffic Restrictions
Minneapolis Chapter 536 limits client visits to home businesses to no more than eight per day and requires that traffic and parking not exceed residential norms. Deliveries are limited to vehicles typically serving residences.
Home Business: Customer Traffic
Some RestrictionsCottage Food Operations
Cottage food producers in Minneapolis operate under Minnesota Statute 28A.152, which was expanded in 2021 to allow up to 78,000 dollars in annual gross sales. Producers must register with the Minnesota Department of Agriculture and complete a food safety course but do not need a commercial kitchen or city license.
Home Business: Cottage Food
Few RestrictionsHome Daycare
Family child care in Minneapolis homes is licensed by Minnesota DHS under Statute 245A. Licensed family daycares (up to 10 children) and group family daycares (up to 14) are a permitted use in all residential zones and preempt local zoning under state law.
Home Business: Daycare Home
Some RestrictionsHome Occupation Permits
Most Minneapolis home occupations do not require a city permit. A Home Occupation Registration with CPED is required only when clients or customers visit the home, or when the business triggers additional licensing (daycare, massage therapy, short-term rental).
Home Business: Home Occupation Permits
Few RestrictionsLooking for Hennepin County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Minneapolis city rules.
Home Business in Hennepin County →