Home Business in Riverside, CA (2026)
6 verified home business rules for Riverside, California, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Zoning Restrictions
City of Riverside allows home occupations in residential zones as an accessory use, but they require a Home Occupation Permit (administrative approval) under RMC Chapter 19.485 and must remain incidental and secondary to the dwelling's residential use.
Home Occupation Zoning: Riverside Municipal Code Chapter 19.485
Some RestrictionsSignage Rules
City of Riverside prohibits any exterior sign, display, window lettering, or visible evidence advertising a home occupation. RMC §19.485.040 requires the dwelling's appearance not to suggest a nonresidential use; Chapter 19.620 (General Sign Provisions) does not authorize home-occupation signage in residential zones.
Home Occupation Signage Prohibited: RMC §19.485.040 and Chapter 19.620
Heavy RestrictionsCustomer Traffic Restrictions
Riverside home occupations may not generate pedestrian or vehicular traffic beyond what is normal for the residence (RMC §19.485.040). Frequent customer visits, scheduled client appointments at the home, and on-site retail sales are not permitted.
Customer Traffic and Visits: RMC §19.485.040 Limits
Heavy RestrictionsCottage Food Operations
Cottage Food Operations (CFOs) are governed by California Health & Safety Code §113758 (AB 1616 / AB 1144). In Riverside you need a state-required CFO Class A or B registration/permit from the Riverside County Department of Environmental Health, a City of Riverside Home Occupation Permit, and a City Business Tax Certificate.
Cottage Food Operations: Cal. Health & Safety Code §113758 (state-controlled) + Local Permits
Some RestrictionsHome Daycare
California Health & Safety Code §1597.45 (as amended by SB 234, 2019) preempts Riverside zoning. Small and large family daycare homes are a residential use 'by right' in any residential zone — no Home Occupation Permit, no conditional use permit, and no local business license, fee, or tax may be required.
Family Daycare Homes: State-Preempted Use by Right (Cal. H&S Code §1597.45 / SB 234)
Few RestrictionsCalifornia Health and Safety Code Section 1597.40 (SB 234)
(a) It is the intent of the Legislature that family daycare homes for children should be situated in normal residential surroundings so as to give children the home environment that is conducive to healthy and safe development. It is the public policy of this state to provide children in a family daycare home the same home environment as provided in a traditional home setting. (b) The Legislatu...
Home Occupation Permits
Riverside requires a Home Occupation Permit (HOP) plus a City business tax certificate before starting any home-based business. The HOP is administered through the Community and Economic Development Department per RMC Chapter 19.440. Applications are reviewed administratively and typically approved quickly when standards are met.
Home Occupation Permit Process in Riverside, California
Some RestrictionsLooking for Riverside County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Riverside city rules.
Home Business in Riverside County →