Jacksonville-Duval County requires a home occupation permit for most home-based businesses. Zoning Code Chapter 656 Part 4 governs home occupations and restricts signage, outdoor storage, customer visits, and employees. The consolidated city-county government applies these rules uniformly across Duval County. Businesses must be clearly incidental to residential use.
Jacksonville Ordinance Code Chapter 656, Part 4 regulates home occupations across the consolidated city-county. A zoning confirmation or home occupation permit is required before operating a home business. The business must be conducted entirely within the dwelling by residents of the home. No more than one non-resident employee is allowed. Exterior signage is limited to one non-illuminated nameplate no larger than one square foot. The business may not generate traffic, noise, or activity beyond what is normal for the residential neighborhood. Outdoor storage of materials, equipment, or inventory is prohibited. The home occupation cannot change the residential character of the dwelling. Prohibited home occupations include auto repair, welding shops, and other uses generating noise, fumes, or heavy traffic. Contact the Planning and Development Department at (904) 255-7800 for permit applications. Annual business tax receipts from the Tax Collector may also be required under Chapter 205 of the Florida Statutes.
Operating a home business without proper permits may result in code enforcement citations. Fines start at $250 per violation and increase for repeat offenses. The city may issue a stop-work order and require the business to cease operations until proper permits are obtained.
See how Duval County's home occupation permits rules stack up against other locations.
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