Zoning Restrictions: Mountain View vs San Jose
How do zoning restrictions rules compare between Mountain View, CA and San Jose, CA?
Mountain View and San Jose have similar restriction levels.
Mountain View, CA
Santa Clara County
Mountain View allows Home Occupations in residential zones subject to standards that keep the business clearly secondary to the dwelling and compatible with neighbors.
View full Mountain View rules →San Jose, CA
Santa Clara County
Santa Clara County allows home occupations in residential zones as an accessory use when clearly incidental to the dwelling, operated by a resident, and limited to 25 percent of floor area.
View full San Jose rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Mountain View | San Jose |
|---|---|---|
| Allowed zones | All residential | - |
| Max floor area | About 25 percent | - |
| Outside change | None | - |
| Employees | One non-resident | - |
| License | Required | - |
| Allowed Zones | - | R1, R1E, RHS, AR residential |
| Max Floor Area | - | 25 percent of dwelling |
| Operator | - | Must reside on-site |
| Exterior Impact | - | None permitted |
| Prohibited Uses | - | Auto repair, kennels, manufacturing |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Mountain View FAQ
Can I run an auto repair shop from my garage?
No. Auto repair and similar high-impact uses are not allowed as Home Occupations in Mountain View residential zones.
Do I need a business license for a one-person consulting business?
Yes. A Mountain View business license and Home Occupation Permit are required even for small consulting or online businesses.
San Jose FAQ
Can I run a business from my home in unincorporated Santa Clara County?
Yes, if the use qualifies as a home occupation: conducted by a resident, incidental to the dwelling, no exterior impacts, and limited to 25 percent of floor area.
Do I need a separate permit from the county?
Unincorporated Santa Clara County does not require a separate home occupation permit for standard home businesses, but you must comply with performance standards and obtain a business license if required.
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