Moreno Valley, CA Home Business: Home Occupation Permits (2026)

Moreno Valley Municipal Code Title 9 (Zoning) allows home occupations in all residential zones subject to specific performance standards enforced through a Home Occupation Permit reviewed by the Planning Division. The occupation must be clearly incidental and secondary to the residential use of the dwelling; typically no more than 25 percent of the home's floor area can be dedicated to the business. No non-resident employees may work at the home, and customer or client visits are generally prohibited — or limited to appointment-only with strict caps. No merchandise or supplies can be visibly stored on the property. No signage is allowed. No equipment that causes noise, vibration, odor, smoke, dust, or electrical interference beyond normal residential levels may be used. Deliveries must be limited to typical residential volumes (no commercial delivery trucks, no daily freight). Prohibited home occupations include auto repair, welding, body shops, cabinet shops, kennels, medical clinics, and any use that generates hazardous waste. A Moreno Valley business license is also required annually. Online-only, consulting, freelance, tutoring, childcare, and similar low-impact businesses are typically easy to approve. State-preempted uses like family daycare and cottage food operations have specific separate rules and cannot be restricted beyond what state law permits.