Zoning Restrictions: Lakewood vs Tacoma
How do zoning restrictions rules compare between Lakewood, WA and Tacoma, WA?
Lakewood and Tacoma have similar restriction levels.
Lakewood, WA
Pierce County
Unincorporated Pierce County allows home occupations as an accessory use in urban and rural zones under Pierce County Code 18A.37.110, capping the activity at 500 square feet or 50 percent of the dwelling's living space, whichever is less, with no outside display or storage.
View full Lakewood rules →Tacoma, WA
Pierce County
Tacoma allows home occupations in residential zones with conditions. The business must be secondary to residential use, not alter the exterior, and not generate excessive traffic. A city business license is required.
View full Tacoma rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Lakewood | Tacoma |
|---|---|---|
| Code section | PCC 18A.37.110 | - |
| Size cap | 500 sq ft or 50 percent | - |
| Allowed zones | Urban and rural | - |
| Outside storage | Not allowed | - |
| License | - | Tacoma business license required |
| Location | - | Within dwelling only |
| Employees | - | No non-resident employees at home |
| Exterior | - | No visible business activity |
| Storage | - | No outdoor commercial storage |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Lakewood FAQ
Can I run a business from my home in unincorporated Pierce County?
Yes, as an accessory home occupation under PCC 18A.37.110, if it stays inside the home, is limited to 500 square feet or 50 percent of living space, and causes no off-site nuisance.
What if my business is bigger?
Larger operations qualify as Cottage Industry Level I or II under PCC 18A.37.110 and require an Administrative Use Permit or Conditional Use Permit, with additional employee, size, and buffer standards.
Tacoma FAQ
Can I run a business from home in Tacoma?
Yes, with a city business license. The business must be inside your home, run by you, with no exterior changes or non-resident employees at the premises.
How do I get a Tacoma home occupation business license?
Apply through the Tacoma Tax and License division. You will also need a Washington State UBI number and to comply with zoning rules.
Can I have employees at my Tacoma home business?
No non-resident employees may work at the premises. Remote employees based elsewhere are fine; on-site workers are not.
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