Fresno, CA Home Business: Home Occupation Permits (2026)

The Home Occupation Permit process in Fresno is administered by the Development and Resource Management Department (DARM) Planning Division. Apply at 2600 Fresno Street or online; submit a description of the business, floor plan showing the area used, statement of employees and traffic expected, and declaration of compliance with FMC §15-2739 operational standards. Neighbor notification within 300 feet may be required for conditional uses. Standard HOP fee is roughly $100-$200 (subject to the Master Fee Schedule). Review turnaround is typically 2-4 weeks for administrative approval; appeals go to the Planning Commission. Separately, a Business Tax Certificate (BTC) from Fresno Finance is required before any commercial activity; annual BTC fee is typically $50-$100 plus a per-employee component. State tax registration (CDTFA Seller's Permit for goods, FTB for employees) is also required. Some professions require additional state licensure: cosmetology, contracting, real estate, and others are regulated by the California Department of Consumer Affairs.