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Home Business in Spokane, WA (2026)

6 verified home business rules for Spokane, Washington, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.

Verified from official government sources

Zoning Restrictions

Spokane allows home occupations in all residential zones under SMC 17C.315. Must be secondary to residential use, no more than 25% of dwelling floor area, no more than one non-resident employee on site.

Home Business: Zoning

Some Restrictions

Signage Rules

Home occupation signs in Spokane are strictly limited under SMC 17C.315 and 17C.240. One non-illuminated sign maximum, not exceeding 2 square feet, attached flush to the dwelling.

Home Business: Signage

Heavy Restrictions

Customer Traffic Restrictions

Spokane home occupations must not generate traffic or parking demand exceeding typical residential levels. Client visits should be by appointment, limited in number, and not disrupt the neighborhood.

Home Business: Customer Traffic

Some Restrictions

Cottage Food Operations

Washington Cottage Food Operations are legal statewide under RCW 69.22 and WAC 16-149. Spokane residents can sell approved low-risk homemade foods up to $25,000 gross annual revenue with a WSDA Cottage Food Permit.

Home Business: Cottage Food

Few Restrictions

Home Daycare

Spokane allows family home child care as a permitted home occupation in residential zones per SMC 17C.315. State licensing through WA DCYF is required for caring for more than one unrelated family's children. Up to 12 children allowed in licensed family home care.

Home Business: Daycare Home

Some Restrictions

Home Occupation Permits

Spokane allows home occupations in all residential zones under SMC 17C.315 without a conditional use permit provided standards are met. A city business license from Taxes and Licenses Division is required. No employees outside the household, limited customer visits, and no exterior changes.

Home Business: Home Occupation Permits

Some Restrictions

Looking for Spokane County county-wide rules?

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

Home Business in Spokane County