Mountain View vs Sunnyvale
How do zoning restrictions rules compare between Mountain View, CA and Sunnyvale, CA?
Mountain View and Sunnyvale 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 →Sunnyvale, CA
Santa Clara County
Sunnyvale allows home occupations in residential zones under Municipal Code Chapter 19.68 with a home occupation permit. The business must be secondary to residential use and cause no neighborhood impact.
View full Sunnyvale rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Mountain View | Sunnyvale |
|---|---|---|
| Allowed zones | All residential | - |
| Max floor area | About 25 percent | - |
| Outside change | None | - |
| Employees | One non-resident | - |
| License | Required | - |
| Code reference | - | SMC Chapter 19.68 |
| Permit required | - | Home occupation permit and business license |
| Max business area | - | 25 percent of dwelling |
| Outside employees | - | Generally prohibited |
| Signs and displays | - | Not allowed outside |
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.
Sunnyvale FAQ
Can I have a home office in Sunnyvale without a permit?
A home office with no customers, signs, or employees may not need a home occupation permit but you still need a business license if you earn income.
Can I run a hair salon from my house?
Personal services with customer visits are restricted. Check with the Planning Division because many such uses are prohibited as home occupations.
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