Zoning Restrictions: Boulder vs Longmont
How do zoning restrictions rules compare between Boulder, CO and Longmont, CO?
Boulder and Longmont have similar restriction levels.
Boulder, CO
Boulder County
Boulder permits home occupations in all residential zones. No external signage, limited customer visits, and no outdoor storage. CU Boulder student entrepreneurs frequently operate under these rules in the University Hill area.
View full Boulder rules →Longmont, CO
Boulder County
Longmont permits home occupations as an accessory use in residential zones under the Land Development Code (Title 15), provided the activity stays clearly subordinate to the dwelling, is conducted by at least one resident, has no more than one non-resident employee, and does not adversely affect surrounding properties. A Home Occupation Affidavit is required.
View full Longmont rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Boulder | Longmont |
|---|---|---|
| Permitted | All residential zones | - |
| Signage | None allowed | - |
| Customers | Limited visits | - |
| Cottage Food | CRS §25-4-1614 | - |
| Code Reference | - | LMC Title 15 (Land Development Code) — Accessory Uses |
| Allowed Zones | - | R-RU, R-SF, R-MN, R-MF (residential) |
| Max Non-Resident Employees | - | 1 |
| Required Filing | - | Home Occupation Affidavit |
| Retail On-Site | - | Prohibited (mail-order delivery off-site OK) |
| Exterior Storage | - | Prohibited |
| Planning Contact | - | (303) 651-8330 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Boulder FAQ
Can I run a business from home?
Yes, with proper permits. Must be secondary to residential use.
Can I sell food from home?
The Colorado Cottage Food Act allows direct sale of certain home-prepared foods.
Longmont FAQ
Can I run a business out of my Longmont home?
Yes. Longmont allows home occupations as an accessory use in residential zones under Title 15 of the Land Development Code. You must submit a Home Occupation Affidavit to Planning & Development Services, keep the business clearly subordinate to the dwelling, employ no more than one non-resident on-site, and avoid retail sales or exterior storage on the premises.
Do I need a separate business license to run a home business in Longmont?
Longmont does not require a general business license, but if you sell tangible goods or taxable services you must obtain a Sales and Use Tax License from the Finance Department ($25 one-time fee). The Home Occupation Affidavit is filed separately with Planning & Development Services at (303) 651-8330.
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