Buffalo home occupations are regulated by the Unified Development Ordinance (Green Code). Home-based businesses are allowed as accessory uses in residential zones if they are clearly incidental to the residential use, conducted by the resident, and do not alter the character of the neighborhood.
Buffalo adopted the Unified Development Ordinance (Green Code) in 2017, replacing traditional zoning. Under Article 6, home occupations are permitted in residential N-zones subject to standards: the business must be conducted by a resident of the dwelling; it must occupy no more than 25 percent of the floor area; no more than one non-resident employee; no exterior evidence other than one non-illuminated sign under 2 square feet; no outdoor storage or display; no retail sales of goods not produced on premises; and no customer traffic that exceeds normal residential volumes. Certain uses are prohibited including auto repair, animal boarding, and manufacturing. A zoning certificate of compliance may be required from Buffalo Department of Permit and Inspection Services. Business licensing may also be required from NY State and the City Clerk depending on activity.
Operating an unpermitted home occupation: notice of violation, fines 50-500 dollars per day. Repeated violations can result in cease and desist orders.
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