Yuba County, CA Home Business: Home Occupation Permits (2026)

Every home occupation in unincorporated Yuba County requires a zoning clearance or self-certification under §11.32.140(2), processed pursuant to Chapter 11.55 (Zoning Clearances). The clearance is tied to a particular address and is not transferable from one party to another, and the type of business may not be modified — a new clearance or self-certification must be obtained for each new home occupation (§11.32.140(2)). A basic home occupation that meets all of the operational standards of §11.32.140(3) — family-only labor, ≤25% floor area, no off-lot impacts, customary traffic, and a residential appearance — qualifies under the zoning clearance/self-certification path. When an operation exceeds those thresholds, a higher-level permit is required per Table 11.32.140: an Administrative Use Permit can allow one non-resident employee, up to 5 instructional students at one time, personal services exceeding 4 appointments/day (up to 16 business vehicle trips/day), and limited outside-valley sales/display up to 300 sq ft; a Minor Conditional Use Permit can allow higher trip counts (up to 32/day) and, outside the valley growth boundary, up to 3 employees and larger display areas. Home occupations must also fully conform with Fire, Building, Plumbing, Electrical, and Health Codes and all federal, state, and county laws (§11.32.140(3)k). Approval may be revoked or modified by the Planning Director after an administrative hearing for violations, with appeals under §11.53.150 (§11.32.140(6)).