Home Occupation Permits: Manchester vs Nashua

What permits do I need to start a home business in Nashua?

Depends on the tier. For a Minor Home Occupation (no nonresident employees, ≤200 sq ft) — a Minor Home Occupation Application to the Nashua Administrative Officer at the Department of Building Safety, reviewed administratively, with a Certificate of Use and Occupancy issued. For a Major Home Occupation (1 nonresident employee, up to 300 sq ft or 420 sq ft for child day care) — a Special Exception application to the Zoning Board of Adjustment under Sec. 190-180 with a public hearing, abutter notice (RSA 676:7), and a $200-$400 fee. Plus: NH Secretary of State LLC/DBA filings; any trade-specific state license (cosmetology, contractor, child care); and NH DHHS Class H Homestead Food License if cottage food sales exceed $35,000 or go wholesale.

How long does a Nashua Home Occupation permit take?

Minor: typically 1-3 weeks for administrative review by the Nashua Administrative Officer at the Department of Building Safety (603) 589-3080. Major: typically 6-10 weeks because the Zoning Board of Adjustment hearing must be properly noticed to abutters under RSA 676:7 (at least 5 days before the hearing) and posted publicly. The ZBA meets monthly and may continue the hearing if the application needs revision. Trade-specific state licenses (cosmetology, contractor, NH DHHS Child Care Licensing) operate on independent timelines and should be applied for in parallel.