Zoning Restrictions: Bellevue vs Seattle
How do zoning restrictions rules compare between Bellevue, WA and Seattle, WA?
Bellevue and Seattle have similar restriction levels.
Bellevue, WA
King County
Bellevue allows home occupations in all residential zones under LUC 20.30L as accessory uses. The business must be incidental to the dwelling, occupy no more than 25% of floor area, and stay residents-only.
View full Bellevue rules →Seattle, WA
King County
Unincorporated King County allows home occupations as accessory uses in residential zones under KCC 21A.30.080. The business must be run by residents and stay clearly incidental to the residential use.
View full Seattle rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Bellevue | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Zones | All residential | - |
| Floor Area | 25% or 500 sq ft max | - |
| Employees | Residents only | 1 non-resident max |
| Outdoor Storage | Not allowed | - |
| Code | LUC 20.30L | KCC 21A.30.080 |
| Jurisdiction | - | Unincorporated areas only |
| Retail | - | Generally prohibited |
| Contact | - | (206) 296-1600 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Bellevue FAQ
Can I run a business from my Bellevue home?
Yes. Under LUC 20.30L, home occupations are allowed in all residential zones as an accessory use, limited to 25 percent or 500 sq ft of the dwelling, residents-only as employees, and no outdoor storage.
Which home businesses are not allowed in Bellevue?
Auto repair, dispatch services, animal kennels, welding, and other uses that generate excessive traffic, noise, odor, or outdoor activity are not permitted as home occupations.
Seattle FAQ
Can I run a home business in unincorporated King County?
Yes, home occupations are allowed in residential zones under KCC 21A.30.080 if the business is secondary to the residential use, conducted by residents, and does not disturb neighbors. Only unincorporated areas follow county code — cities like Bellevue or Seattle have their own rules.
Can I have employees at a King County home business?
Residents of the dwelling may operate the business, plus one non-resident employee may work on-site. Additional non-resident employees must work remotely and not come to the property.
Are retail sales allowed at a King County home occupation?
Walk-in retail sales are generally prohibited. Sales that are incidental to services performed on-site are allowed, but the home cannot function as a retail storefront.
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