Zoning Restrictions: Kirkland vs Seattle
How do zoning restrictions rules compare between Kirkland, WA and Seattle, WA?
Kirkland and Seattle have similar restriction levels.
Kirkland, WA
King County
Home occupations are allowed in all Kirkland residential zones under KZC 115.35 as accessory uses with at most one nonresident employee and no noise, traffic, or neighborhood impacts.
View full Kirkland 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 | Kirkland | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Code | KZC Chapter 115.35 | KCC 21A.30.080 |
| Employees | Max 1 nonresident | 1 non-resident max |
| Floor Area | ~25 percent of home | - |
| License | Kirkland business license required | - |
| Prohibited | Auto repair, heavy mfg | - |
| Jurisdiction | - | Unincorporated areas only |
| Retail | - | Generally prohibited |
| Contact | - | (206) 296-1600 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Kirkland FAQ
Can I run a business from my Kirkland home?
Yes, as a home occupation under KZC 115.35 if it is clearly accessory, employs no more than one nonresident, and generates no neighborhood impacts.
Do I need a Kirkland business license?
Yes. All businesses operating in Kirkland including home occupations must obtain a city business license under KMC Title 7.
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.
Compare other topics
See how Kirkland and Seattle compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool