Matthews requires a zoning permit for home occupations. Business must be clearly secondary to residential use, no non-resident employees on site, no external evidence of the business, and no customer traffic beyond normal residential patterns.
Matthews UDO Article 5 regulates home occupations in residential districts. Permitted uses include professional offices, tutoring, artists, consultants, and online sales. Prohibited: auto repair, kennels, medical clinics, restaurants, and any use generating noise, odor, vibration, or traffic beyond typical residential. No more than 25 percent of dwelling floor area may be used for the business. No outdoor storage. No signage. Deliveries limited to standard parcel services. Application filed with Matthews Planning Department with one-time fee.
UDO violation: Notice of Violation issued with 30-day cure period. Continued violation may result in civil penalties of 100-500 dollars per day.
See how other cities in Mecklenburg County handle home occupation permits.
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