Murrieta, CA Home Business: Home Occupation Permits (2026)

Under Murrieta Municipal Code Title 16, a home occupation is allowed only after the resident obtains zoning clearance, often processed simultaneously with a city business license application. The applicant typically submits a short form describing the proposed business activity, hours of operation, number of employees (including non-resident employees, usually capped at one), area of the home to be used, storage of materials, and expected customer traffic. The Planning Division reviews the application against the home occupation performance standards: no external evidence, no outdoor storage, limited traffic, no hazardous materials, and compliance with noise, odor, and vibration standards. The permit does not transfer to a new property, and operators must notify the city of any material change. Annual renewal is tied to the business license. State-preempted uses such as family daycare and cottage food still must obtain the business license but benefit from reduced review scope. Failure to obtain the permit can result in code enforcement citations starting at 100 dollars and escalating; state Business and Professions Code section 16000 authorizes local business licensing. HOAs may add their own approval step under CC&Rs.