Auburn vs Kirkland
How do home occupation permits rules compare between Auburn, WA and Kirkland, WA?
Auburn and Kirkland have similar restriction levels.
Auburn, WA
King County
Auburn allows home occupations in residential zones under ACC 18.60 when they remain clearly incidental to the residential use. A business license and compliance with strict performance standards are required.
View full Auburn rules →Kirkland, WA
King County
Kirkland allows home-based businesses under KZC 115.42 when the use stays secondary to residential living, employs at most one non-resident, and generates no unusual traffic.
View full Kirkland rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Auburn | Kirkland |
|---|---|---|
| Code section | ACC 18.60 | - |
| Business license | Required | - |
| Floor area limit | ~25 percent of dwelling | - |
| On-site customers | Limited | - |
| Prohibited uses | Auto repair, kennels, clinics | Auto repair and kennels |
| Max non-resident staff | - | 1 employee |
| Max floor area | - | 25 percent of dwelling |
| Signage | - | 2 sq ft non-illuminated |
| License | - | Required via FileLocal |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Auburn FAQ
Can I have employees working at my home business?
Generally only residents of the dwelling may work there. Some zones permit one non-resident employee; check ACC 18.60 for your specific zone.
Can customers come to my home?
Limited customer visits may be allowed, but the business must not generate traffic beyond typical residential levels. On-site retail sales are generally prohibited.
Kirkland FAQ
Can I see clients at my Kirkland home office?
Limited client visits are allowed if they do not create parking or traffic impacts beyond normal residential levels; high-volume uses such as retail or walk-in clinics are not permitted.
Do I need a separate permit beyond a business license?
Most home occupations only need a City business license if they meet KZC 115.42 standards; a conditional use permit is required only for occupations that exceed the standard criteria.
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