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Home Business in San Rafael, CA (2026)

4 verified home business rules for San Rafael, California, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.

Verified from official government sources

Zoning Restrictions

Home occupations in San Rafael are permitted as an accessory use under zoning with a home-occupation permit/business license, subject to conditions keeping the business subordinate to the residence.

Home Business: Zoning

Some Restrictions

Signage Rules

Home-occupation signage in San Rafael is tightly limited by the zoning sign rules — typically a single small, non-illuminated sign, if any, in residential zones.

Home Business: Signage

Some Restrictions

Customer Traffic Restrictions

Home occupations in San Rafael must not generate traffic, parking demand or deliveries beyond what is normal for a residence; significant customer visits can disqualify the use.

Home Business: Customer Traffic

Some Restrictions

Client Visits

Under §14.16.220 home occupations may have no more than one client at a time on site. There is no daily cap, but the one-at-a-time rule effectively bars walk-in retail and group activities. On-site sales of goods displayed are prohibited.

San Rafael Home Business Client Limits

Some Restrictions

Looking for Marin County county-wide rules?

County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement San Rafael city rules.

Home Business in Marin County