Home Occupation Permits: Apex vs Raleigh
How do home occupation permits rules compare between Apex, NC and Raleigh, NC?
Apex and Raleigh have similar restriction levels.
Apex, NC
Wake County
Apex requires a Home Occupation Permit for every home-based business before operation begins. The application is filed with the Apex Planning Department, costs $50, and is reviewed for compliance with UDO Sec. 4.5.5 standards. A separate Home Occupation Sign Permit is required to install the 12 in. x 12 in. door placard. Wake County business property tax listing is also required by NCGS § 105-308 (Jan. 1 to Jan. 31 annually).
View full Apex rules →Raleigh, NC
Wake County
Most home occupations in Raleigh operate by right under UDO Sec 6.7 without a zoning permit, but every home business must obtain a Raleigh Business Registration for $50 annually. Businesses exceeding standard home occupation limits may apply for a Customary Home Occupation Special Use Permit through the Board of Adjustment.
View full Raleigh rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Apex | Raleigh |
|---|---|---|
| Permit Required | Yes — Apex Home Occupation Permit | - |
| Application Fee | $50 | - |
| Review Type | Administrative (Planning Department, no hearing) | - |
| Apex Planning Phone | (919) 249-3400 | - |
| Submittal | Electronic Plan Review or planninginfo@apexnc.org | - |
| Sign Permit (separate) | Required for door placard | - |
| Local Business License | Not required (NCGS § 160A-211.1 repealed 2015) | - |
| Wake Cty Business Tax Listing | Required Jan 1-31 annually (NCGS § 105-308) | - |
| - | - |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Apex FAQ
What permits do I need to start a home business in Apex?
Two Apex permits plus state and county compliance. (1) Apex Home Occupation Permit — $50 application to the Apex Planning Department, reviewed administratively against the 11 standards in UDO Sec. 4.5.5. (2) Apex Home Occupation Sign Permit — separate application required before installing the 12 in. x 12 in. door placard authorized under UDO Sec. 8.7.1.A.2. Plus: Wake County business property tax listing each January (NCGS § 105-308), any required state professional licenses (cosmetology, contractor, child care, real estate), and a NC Secretary of State LLC or corporation filing if applicable. North Carolina repealed the municipal business privilege license tax in 2015, so Apex does not charge a separate local business license.
How long does an Apex Home Occupation Permit take?
Typically a few business days to a couple of weeks. Because review is administrative (no public hearing, no Board of Adjustment review), the Apex Planning Department processes a complete application directly under UDO Sec. 4.5.5. Electronic submittal through Apex Electronic Plan Review or email to planninginfo@apexnc.org speeds processing. Trade-specific state licenses (NC Cosmetic Art Board, NC Contractor Licensing Board, NC DCDEE for child care) operate on their own timelines and should be applied for in parallel.
Raleigh FAQ
What happens if I skip the Business Registration?
Operating without registration can trigger a civil penalty of $100 per month of unregistered operation plus back taxes. Voluntary registration avoids penalties.
How do I apply for a Special Use Permit?
Submit the Special Use Permit application through Raleigh Development Services, pay the $400 fee, and attend the Board of Adjustment hearing. Neighbors within 100 feet receive mailed notice.
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