Home Occupation Permits: Elk Grove vs Folsom
How do home occupation permits rules compare between Elk Grove, CA and Folsom, CA?
Elk Grove and Folsom have similar restriction levels.
Elk Grove, CA
Sacramento County
Elk Grove requires a Home Occupation Permit and business license for any home-based business. The activity must be clearly incidental to residential use, conducted entirely within the dwelling, employ only residents plus limited non-resident assistance, generate no customer traffic beyond normal residential patterns, and produce no exterior evidence. Permit application filed with Planning Division; business license through Finance Department.
View full Elk Grove rules →Folsom, CA
Sacramento County
Folsom requires a Home Occupation Permit and Business License for any business operated from a residence. The use must be incidental and secondary to the residential use, generate no customer traffic, no exterior signage, and no employees who do not live on the premises.
View full Folsom rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Elk Grove | Folsom |
|---|---|---|
| Permit | Home Occupation Permit + business license | Home Occupation Permit + Business License required |
| Floor Area | Typically max 25% of dwelling | Max 25% of dwelling |
| Employees | Residents only (limits on non-residents) | Residents only, no outside workers |
| Customer Visits | None or strictly limited | - |
| Signage | Not permitted (generally) | None permitted |
| Customers | - | No on-site visits |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Elk Grove FAQ
Can I run an online business from my Elk Grove home?
Yes, online businesses with no customer visits, no non-resident employees, and no exterior evidence are typically approved. You still need the Home Occupation Permit and business license.
Are Cottage Food Operations allowed?
Yes. California AB 1616/AB 1240 permit limited cottage food (baked goods, jams, granola) from registered home kitchens. Register with Sacramento County Environmental Management.
Folsom FAQ
Can I see clients at my Folsom home office?
No. Home occupation rules prohibit on-site customer visits. Meet clients off-site or virtually.
Do I need a license if I'm only selling online from home?
Yes. A Folsom Business License is required regardless of whether the business is online-only, plus a Home Occupation Permit.
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