Nevada County, CA Home Business: Home Occupation Permits (2026)

Per Nevada County Code Section 12.03.110(B), all home businesses are subject to approval of an Administrative Development Permit, but not subject to design review, unless specifically exempted. The County's Home Business Permit packet lists two exempt categories that still must file all required information before establishing the business: (a) office uses conducted completely within a residence, and (b) arts and crafts fabrication conducted completely within the primary residence. Exempt businesses are still bound by the operating standards but may not have signage or generate customer traffic. The application packet (Planning Department, Form #27) requires a signed application, filing fees set by the most current Board of Supervisors resolution (not required for exempt businesses), a Hazardous Waste Statement, a completed Home Business Information form, and two copies of a site plan showing access, wells/septic, structures with setbacks, and parking. The Zoning Regulations note these permits regulate land use only and do not exempt the operator from other required County, State, or Federal permits or licenses, the County identifies the Building Department, Environmental Health (food handling/hazardous materials), the Recorder (fictitious business name), and the State for sales tax. Applications must be filed in person at the Planning Department.