Humble, TX Home Business: Home Occupation Permits (2026)

Humble's approach to home occupations is governed by the zoning ordinance, which establishes conditions under which businesses may operate from residential properties. The city may require a general business registration or sales tax permit depending on the nature of the business, separate from the zoning compliance. Home occupations must meet all zoning conditions including: the business must be conducted entirely within the dwelling, must be incidental to the residential use, must not employ non-resident workers at the home, must not involve signage or outdoor storage, must not generate traffic exceeding residential norms, and must not alter the exterior appearance of the home. Certain professional activities such as consulting, freelance work, and online businesses that have no visible impact on the neighborhood may operate without specific registration with the city. Businesses that involve sales tax collection must register with the Texas Comptroller for a sales tax permit. Food-related home businesses may need additional state permits (except cottage food operations). Contractors operating administrative offices from home must still hold applicable trade licenses. The city does not charge a separate home occupation permit fee if no formal permit process exists, but business owners should verify current requirements with the city as procedures may change.