Rockville Home Business: Home Occupation Permits Rules (2026)

Home occupation permitting in Rockville involves both city and county requirements. Under Rockville's Chapter 25 Zoning Ordinance, home-based business enterprises are permitted in residential zones without a separate city-issued home occupation permit, provided they comply with the residential character standard and do not fall into an excluded category. However, Montgomery County requires registration for home occupations through the Department of Permitting Services. The county classifies home occupations as either low-impact or major. Low-impact home occupations involve minimal client visits and neighborhood impact and require a simpler registration process. Major home occupations may involve more frequent client visits or deliveries and are subject to additional review and conditions. Both classifications require registration with the county before commencing operations. The registration process involves verifying that the proposed use complies with zoning, building code, and fire safety requirements. Rockville residents should contact both the city's Zoning Division at 240-314-8211 and the Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services to ensure full compliance. Certain professions may also require separate Maryland state professional licenses independent of the local home occupation registration.