Anaheim requires a home occupation permit and business license for any business operated from a residence, with strict limits on employees, customers, signage, and visible impact.
Under Anaheim Municipal Code Title 18 (Zoning) home occupations are a conditional accessory use in residential zones. Operators must apply for a home occupation permit through Planning and Building and a separate business license through the Finance Department. Permitted home businesses must be clearly incidental and secondary to the residential use. Only residents of the dwelling may work on site; nonresident employees are not allowed. Client or customer visits are either prohibited or tightly limited depending on the use. No exterior signage, storage, or display is permitted. The business cannot generate more traffic, noise, odor, vibration, or parking demand than a typical household. Hazardous materials, commercial vehicles over one ton, and processes requiring industrial equipment are disallowed. Short-term rentals, auto repair, massage, and large-scale retail are generally not permitted as home occupations.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
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