San Jose vs Sunnyvale
How do home occupation permits rules compare between San Jose, CA and Sunnyvale, CA?
San Jose and Sunnyvale have similar restriction levels.
San Jose, CA
Santa Clara County
San Jose permits home-based businesses through a Home Occupation Permit process under Municipal Code Title 20. Businesses must remain incidental to residential use, employ no more than one non-resident worker, generate no significant client traffic, and display no exterior signage. A Business Tax Certificate is required in addition.
View full San Jose rules →Sunnyvale, CA
Santa Clara County
Sunnyvale permits home occupations as accessory to residential use under SMC 19.70.040. No walk-in customers, no outside employees, and no more than 25 percent of dwelling may be used for the business.
View full Sunnyvale rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | San Jose | Sunnyvale |
|---|---|---|
| - | - | |
| Floor Area Cap | - | 25 percent or 400 sq ft |
| Employees | - | Residents only |
| Customer Traffic | - | Not permitted |
| Business License | - | Required |
| Code | - | SMC 19.70.040 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
San Jose FAQ
Sunnyvale FAQ
Can clients come to my Sunnyvale home office?
No. Home occupations prohibit walk-in client traffic. Meet clients at their location or at a coworking space.
How much is a Sunnyvale business license?
Home occupations pay a base business license tax starting around 60 dollars annually, plus applicable per-employee fees. Rates are adjusted each year.
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