Redmond allows home occupations as accessory uses under RZC 21.08. A business license is always required; a home occupation permit is needed when the business has employees, clients, or external impacts.
The Redmond Zoning Code (RZC) 21.08 regulates home occupations as accessory uses in residential zones. Basic home-based businesses with no customers, employees, or external impacts typically need only a city business license. A home occupation permit is triggered when the business involves non-resident employees, client visits, deliveries beyond normal residential traffic, retail sales on-site, or use of equipment that produces noise, vibration, dust, odor, glare, or electrical interference. The home occupation must be conducted entirely within the dwelling or an enclosed accessory structure and may not occupy more than 25 percent of the gross floor area. No outdoor storage of materials, inventory, or equipment is allowed. One non-illuminated sign up to 2 square feet is permitted. Traffic generated by the business must not exceed normal residential levels, and parking for employees or clients must fit within the driveway without using public streets disproportionately. Prohibited home occupations include auto repair, body shops, kennels, and uses that require a commercial business license by state law. Applications go through the Redmond Planning Division.
Operating without a home occupation permit when required: civil penalty up to $500 per day under RMC 1.14. Failure to maintain a business license: RMC 5.04.
See how other cities in King County handle home occupation permits.
See how Redmond's home occupation permits rules stack up against other locations.
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