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

Fullerton's home occupation regulatory framework consists of two components: a business license from the Finance Department and compliance with the Zoning Ordinance's home occupation conditions. The business license is mandatory for all persons conducting business within the city, including home-based businesses, and is obtained through the Finance Department. The annual business license fee is based on gross receipts or a flat rate depending on the business type. Separately, the Zoning Ordinance establishes conditions that home occupations must meet to qualify as an accessory use in residential zones. Unlike some cities that require a separate home occupation permit with a planning review, Fullerton generally does not require a standalone zoning permit for home occupations — the business license application process includes a self-certification that the proposed activity complies with home occupation conditions. These conditions include: the business must be conducted within the dwelling by residents only, no exterior evidence of the business, no customer traffic exceeding residential norms, no noise or nuisance impacts, and no storage of hazardous materials. Professional services (accounting, consulting, writing, graphic design, software development) conducted from home with no client visits are the most straightforward home occupations. Businesses requiring any element that violates these conditions — such as signage, non-resident employees, regular client visits, or outdoor storage — cannot operate from a residential zone and must lease commercial space. The Community Development Department provides guidance on whether a specific business type qualifies as a home occupation.