Home businesses in Mission Viejo are subject to strict limits on customer traffic to preserve the residential character of neighborhoods. Home occupations generally may not generate customer visits, deliveries, or parking impacts beyond what is normal for a residential use. Client visits are limited, and retail sales with walk-in customers are prohibited from home-based businesses.
Mission Viejo's zoning code regulates home occupations to ensure they do not alter the residential character of the neighborhood. Home businesses that generate significant customer traffic are generally not permitted. The home occupation must be conducted entirely within the dwelling by the residents of the property. Customer or client visits are either prohibited or limited to a small number per day, typically no more than one client at a time by appointment only. No retail sales with walk-in customers are permitted from the residence. Delivery vehicles serving the home business are limited to standard residential delivery vehicles such as UPS, FedEx, and USPS. Commercial truck deliveries are not permitted in residential zones. The business may not generate additional parking demand that impacts the neighborhood. All parking for the business must be accommodated within the property's existing driveway and garage spaces. No employees other than residents of the dwelling may work at the home business location. These restrictions apply in addition to any HOA rules, which in Mission Viejo are often more restrictive. Many HOAs prohibit any business activity that is visible from the street, including client vehicles parked in the driveway or deliveries beyond normal residential levels.
Home businesses generating excessive traffic or customer visits may receive a code enforcement notice requiring cessation of the activity. Continued violations can result in administrative citations starting at $250 and revocation of the home occupation permit. HOA violations are handled separately and may include fines and demand letters from HOA legal counsel.
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