Zoning Restrictions: Clearwater vs St. Petersburg
How do zoning restrictions rules compare between Clearwater, FL and St. Petersburg, FL?
Clearwater and St. Petersburg have similar restriction levels.
Clearwater, FL
Pinellas County
Clearwater's Community Development Code Section 3-920 governs home occupations as accessory residential uses, requiring activity to remain incidental to the dwelling and consistent with neighborhood residential character.
View full Clearwater rules →St. Petersburg, FL
Pinellas County
St. Petersburg permits home occupations in residential zoning districts under Section 16.50.180, provided the business stays incidental to the dwelling and meets strict use and traffic limits.
View full St. Petersburg rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Clearwater | St. Petersburg |
|---|---|---|
| Authority | CDC Section 3-920 | - |
| State preemption | F.S. 559.955 | - |
| Non-resident workers | Up to two | - |
| Activity location | Principal dwelling | - |
| Standard | Incidental to residence | - |
| Code section | - | Sec. 16.50.180 |
| Where allowed | - | Residential districts |
| Permit required | - | Business Tax Receipt |
| Floor area cap | - | Approximately 25% |
| Enforcement | - | Code Compliance Assistance |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Clearwater FAQ
Do I need a permit to run a home business in Clearwater?
Most home occupations require a city Business Tax Receipt and must satisfy Section 3-920 of the Community Development Code. Some uses also need zoning approval through Planning and Development.
Can I have employees come to my Clearwater home office?
Florida Statute 559.955 generally allows up to two non-resident workers at a home-based business, provided parking and activity remain consistent with the surrounding residential neighborhood.
St. Petersburg FAQ
Can I run a business from my St. Petersburg home?
Yes, as long as the home occupation complies with Section 16.50.180. The business must be incidental to residential use, conducted indoors by residents only, and produce no external impacts.
Do I need a permit for a home-based business in St. Petersburg?
You must obtain a City of St. Petersburg Business Tax Receipt. Some categories of home business are barred outright, such as auto repair, restaurants, and kennels.
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