Skip to main content
CityRuleLookup
💼 Home Business/Zoning Restrictions

Zoning Restrictions: Santa Clarita vs Santa Monica

How do zoning restrictions rules compare between Santa Clarita, CA and Santa Monica, CA?

Santa Clarita and Santa Monica have similar restriction levels.

Santa Clarita, CA

Los Angeles County

Some Restrictions

Santa Clarita allows home occupations in residential zones with conditions. The business must be secondary to residential use, conducted within the dwelling, and not alter the residential character. A home occupation permit or business license may be required.

View full Santa Clarita rules →

Santa Monica, CA

Los Angeles County

Some Restrictions

Home occupation permits in Santa Monica are required under SMMC §9.31.160. The permit is valid only for the person issued and void upon moving. Prohibited uses include dance schools, exercise studios (except 1-on-1 with max 6 clients/day).

View full Santa Monica rules →

Key Facts Comparison

FactSanta ClaritaSanta Monica
LicenseCity business license required-
LocationWithin dwelling only-
EmployeesNo non-resident employees at home-
ExteriorNo visible business activity-
StorageNo outdoor commercial storage-
Permit-Home occupation permit required
Transferable-No, void upon moving
Prohibited-Dance schools, group exercise
Exception-1-on-1 training, max 6 clients/day

Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.

Santa Clarita FAQ

Can I run a business from home in Santa Clarita?

Yes, with a city business license. The business must be inside your home, run by you, with no exterior changes or non-resident employees working at the property.

How do I get a home occupation business license in Santa Clarita?

Apply through the city's Business License division online or in person. Fees depend on business type. Expect to complete a zoning verification confirming home occupation compliance.

Can I have employees at my Santa Clarita home-based business?

No. Non-resident employees cannot work at the home. Only residents of the dwelling may conduct the business on-site. Remote employees working offsite are fine.

Santa Monica FAQ

Can I run a business from my home in Santa Monica?

Home occupation permits in Santa Monica are required under SMMC §9.31.160. The permit is valid only for the person issued and void upon moving. Prohibited uses include dance schools, exercise studios (except 1-on-1 with max 6 clients/day).

What zoning restrictions apply to home businesses in Santa Monica?

Permit: Home occupation permit required. Transferable: No, void upon moving. Prohibited: Dance schools, group exercise. Exception: 1-on-1 training, max 6 clients/day.

Compare other topics

See how Santa Clarita and Santa Monica compare on other ordinance categories.

Want to add a third city?

Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.

Open Comparison Tool