Kirkland allows home-based businesses under KZC 115.42 when the use stays secondary to residential living, employs at most one non-resident, and generates no unusual traffic.
Home occupations in Kirkland are governed by Kirkland Zoning Code Chapter 115.42, which permits residents to conduct a business within their dwelling provided the activity remains incidental and subordinate to the primary residential use. The business must be operated by a person residing in the home, and no more than one non-resident employee may work on site at any time. Exterior evidence of the business is limited to a single non-illuminated nameplate of two square feet or less, and no outdoor storage, display, or modifications that change the residential appearance of the property are allowed. The home occupation may not occupy more than 25 percent of the gross floor area of the dwelling, and no mechanical equipment may be used that creates noise, vibration, odor, dust, or electrical interference detectable at the property line beyond what is normal for a residence. Client visits are limited to avoid generating parking demand or traffic exceeding typical residential levels, and commercial deliveries by vehicles larger than standard parcel carriers are prohibited. Sales of goods from the home are restricted to items produced on site or incidental to services rendered, and no stock in trade may be kept for walk-in retail. A Kirkland business license is required through FileLocal, and certain occupations such as food service, cosmetology, and massage therapy require additional state licensing. Auto repair, welding, kennels, and similar uses are expressly prohibited as home occupations.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
See how other cities in King County handle home occupation permits.
See how Kirkland's home occupation permits rules stack up against other locations.
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