Mission Viejo, CA Home Business: Home Occupation Permits (2026)

Home occupation permits in Mission Viejo are required for any ongoing business activity conducted from a residential dwelling. The permit application is submitted to the Planning Division and reviewed for compliance with the city's home occupation standards. Conditions typically include: the business must be operated entirely within the enclosed living area of the dwelling, with no visible evidence of the business from the exterior; no more than 25% of the floor area may be devoted to the business use; no outside storage of materials or inventory related to the business; no signage visible from the street; no on-site employees other than residents; limited client visits by appointment only; no retail sales or display of merchandise; no generation of noise, odors, vibrations, or other nuisances beyond normal residential levels; all parking accommodated on-site; and no use of hazardous materials. Approved home occupation categories typically include professional services, consulting, tutoring, online businesses, arts and crafts, and similar low-impact uses. Prohibited home occupations generally include auto repair, manufacturing, medical or dental offices, commercial food preparation (except cottage food), and any use generating significant traffic. A separate city business license is required from the Finance Department, with annual renewal. The home occupation permit remains valid as long as the business continues to comply with all conditions.