Newton permits home occupations as accessory uses under the Zoning Ordinance Chapter 30, with size limits, no outside employees, and restrictions on client visits in residential districts.
Newton Zoning Ordinance Chapter 30 allows home occupations as an accessory use in residential zones provided the business is clearly incidental to the dwelling use. Standard limits include: the occupation must be conducted by a resident of the dwelling, no more than 25 percent of the floor area (or 500 square feet, whichever is less) may be used, no non-resident employees may work on site, exterior evidence of the business is prohibited (no signs beyond a small professional nameplate), and no retail sales, mechanical equipment, or noise audible beyond the property line is allowed. Client visits are generally limited and must not create parking or traffic issues. Businesses exceeding these standards require a special permit from the Zoning Board of Appeals. A City of Newton business certificate (DBA) must be filed with the City Clerk under MGL c.110 s.5.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
See how other cities in Middlesex County handle home occupation permits.
See how Newton's home occupation permits rules stack up against other locations.
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