Contra Costa County, CA Home Business: Home Occupation Permits (2026)

Under Contra Costa County Ordinance Code Chapter 82-40 (Title 8 Zoning, Division 82 General Regulations), a 'Home Occupation' is defined as 'a business activity that is conducted at a residential dwelling by a person residing in the dwelling and is a secondary and incidental use of the dwelling as a residence.' Section 82-40.012 governs the ministerial Home Occupation Permit, which is typically issued over the counter when the application meets the standards in § 82-40.010 (Standards applicable to all Home Occupations) and § 82-40.012 (location, employees, clients, vehicles). Applications are filed online at https://epermits.cccounty.us, must be signed by the property owner (a recorded deed may be required if Assessor records are out of date), and carry a one-time $150.00 fee due at submittal. Activities that exceed ministerial thresholds — for example, having a non-resident employee or onsite clients beyond the limited home-instruction exception — must instead go through a Land Use Permit process (call 925-655-2700). A business license from the County Tax Collector is also required separately. Other agency approvals may apply depending on the nature of the occupation.