Arlington vs Mansfield

Can I run a business out of my Arlington home?

Yes, if it qualifies as a home occupation under the Unified Development Code. The business must be secondary to the residential use, conducted entirely indoors, have no non-resident employees on site, use no more than 25% of the floor area, and generate no external noise, odor, or traffic impacts.

Can I hire an employee to work at my home business?

No. Arlington's home occupation rules prohibit non-resident employees from working on site. Only people who live in the dwelling may perform the work. You may have employees who work off-site or meet clients elsewhere.

Do I need to register my home occupation with Arlington?

Yes. Arlington requires home occupation registration through the Planning Department. This helps the city track the use and ensure the property remains zoning-compliant. Failure to register can result in violations when the business is discovered.

Can I run a business from my Mansfield home?

Yes, if it qualifies as a compliant home occupation: secondary to residential use, conducted entirely indoors, no outside employees, no retail sales, and no nuisance impacts on neighbors. Professional services and online businesses are typically allowed.

Can I have employees come to my Mansfield home office?

Generally no. Home occupations typically limit workers to family members residing in the dwelling. Outside employees coming to the home are prohibited in most single-family districts.

What home businesses are banned in Mansfield?

Auto repair, welding, commercial cooking (beyond state cottage food), kennels, furniture refinishing, medical offices, retail storefronts, and any use that generates noise, odor, vibration, or substantial customer traffic are prohibited.