Zoning Restrictions: St. Clair Shores vs Sterling Heights
How do zoning restrictions rules compare between St. Clair Shores, MI and Sterling Heights, MI?
St. Clair Shores and Sterling Heights have similar restriction levels.
St. Clair Shores, MI
Macomb County
Macomb County does not zone home-based businesses; each city and township does. Local ordinances typically allow a home occupation only if it stays incidental to the residence, employs only family, uses limited floor area, and shows no outside evidence of the business.
View full St. Clair Shores rules →Sterling Heights, MI
Macomb County
Sterling Heights allows home occupations in residential zones with conditions. Business registration required. Use must be secondary to residential character.
View full Sterling Heights rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | St. Clair Shores | Sterling Heights |
|---|---|---|
| Who regulates | City/township zoning | - |
| County role | None (no county zoning) | - |
| Employees | Family/residents only | Typically none on-site |
| Macomb Twp floor area | Max 200 sq ft | - |
| Accessory buildings | Not allowed | - |
| Permit | - | Home occupation permit required |
| Customers | - | Limited or none |
| Cottage Food | - | PA 208 ($75K limit) |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
St. Clair Shores FAQ
Does Macomb County regulate my home business?
No. Macomb County has no zoning authority over home-based businesses. Your city or township zoning ordinance controls — for example, Macomb Township Sec. 10.0320. Check with your local planning/zoning office.
Can I hire employees for my home business?
Typically no. Macomb Township Sec. 10.0320 allows only members of the family residing on the premises to be engaged in the home occupation. Many Macomb County communities have the same restriction.
Can I run the business from my detached garage?
In Macomb Township, no — Sec. 10.0320 states no home occupation may be conducted in an accessory structure. It must be carried out completely within the dwelling. Other communities have similar limits.
Sterling Heights FAQ
Can I run a business from home?
Yes, with a home occupation permit and business registration. The business must be secondary to residential use.
Can I sell food from home?
Michigan's Cottage Food Law allows non-potentially hazardous food sales from home up to $75,000/year.
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