Memphis requires a home-occupation permit or business license for most home-based businesses. Applications go through the Business Tax Office and are routed through Zoning for compliance review. Fees are modest and the permit renews annually with Memphis business tax.
Memphis treats home occupations as accessory residential uses that require a business license under Chapter 16. Applications through the Memphis Business Tax Office include business name, owner information, address, type of activity, expected customer traffic, employees, signage, and parking. Zoning staff confirm the occupation is permitted in the applicable residential district and that all home-occupation conditions are met (floor area, no external evidence, employee limit). Approved permits renew annually with the Memphis business tax filing and Tennessee Department of Revenue. Tennessee business tax ranges based on gross receipts, with local rates added in Memphis. Certain occupations (childcare, cottage food, cosmetology, real estate) require additional state-level licensing in parallel. Historic districts may require Landmarks Commission review. Unpermitted home occupations face Code Enforcement citation and back-tax assessment. Online-only businesses with no local customer traffic still need a Memphis business license if gross receipts exceed the de minimis threshold.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact Memphis code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
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See how Memphis's home occupation permits rules stack up against other locations.
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