Zoning Restrictions: Costa Mesa vs Irvine
How do zoning restrictions rules compare between Costa Mesa, CA and Irvine, CA?
Costa Mesa and Irvine have similar restriction levels.
Costa Mesa, CA
Orange County
Costa Mesa requires a home occupation permit to operate any business from a residentially zoned area under CMMC Article 6. No business license is issued until a home occupation permit has been approved. Employees must be permanent residents of the premises only.
View full Costa Mesa rules →Irvine, CA
Orange County
Home occupations in Irvine require a Home Occupation Permit under Zoning Ordinance Chapter 2-14. The business must be incidental and accessory to the residential use and not change the principal character of the residence.
View full Irvine rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Costa Mesa | Irvine |
|---|---|---|
| Permit Required | Yes — home occupation permit | Home Occupation Permit |
| Business License | Not issued without permit | Also required |
| Employees | Residents only | - |
| Exterior Changes | Prohibited | - |
| Code Section | CMMC Article 6 | Zoning Ordinance Ch. 2-14 |
| Activity | - | Within dwelling only |
| Application | - | Form 40-27 from city website |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Costa Mesa FAQ
Do I need a permit for a home business in Costa Mesa?
Yes. A home occupation permit must be approved before a business license is issued under CMMC Article 6. No business may operate from a residential zone without the permit.
Can I have employees at my home business?
Only permanent residents of the premises may work in the home occupation. Non-resident employees are prohibited.
Can I sell products from home?
No direct sale of products on the premises is permitted. Online businesses that ship from outside the home may be acceptable.
Irvine FAQ
Can I run a business from home in Irvine?
Yes, with a Home Occupation Permit (Zoning Ordinance Ch. 2-14) and a city business license. The business must be incidental to the residential use.
How do I apply for a home occupation permit?
Download Form 40-27 from the city website or contact the Planning Team at planning@cityofirvine.org or (949) 724-6308.
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