Westerville requires home occupations to be registered with the Planning and Development Department and comply with Codified Ordinances Section 1149.05. No external evidence of the business is allowed, non-resident employees are prohibited, and customer visits are strictly limited.
Under Codified Ordinances 1149.05, a home occupation is defined as an accessory use clearly incidental to the residential use of the dwelling. Key restrictions: (1) the business must be conducted entirely within the dwelling or an attached garage, (2) no more than 25 percent of the floor area may be used, (3) no employees other than residents of the dwelling, (4) no external signage beyond a 2 sq ft nameplate, (5) no outdoor storage of materials, (6) no retail sales on premises except by appointment, (7) customer visits limited to reasonable daytime hours and must not alter residential traffic patterns. Prohibited home occupations include auto repair, kennels, restaurants, medical clinics, and any use generating noise, odors, vibration, or traffic beyond typical residential levels. Ohio Cottage Food Law (ORC 3715.024) allows sale of non-hazardous baked goods up to $25,000 gross per year from home kitchens without additional city licensing.
First violation: written notice from zoning inspector with 30 days to cure. Continued violation: up to $150 per day civil fine. Unauthorized commercial traffic or signage: separate zoning enforcement action and potential cease-and-desist.
See how other cities in Franklin County handle home occupation permits.
See how Westerville's home occupation permits rules stack up against other locations.
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