Westminster, CA Home Business: Home Occupation Permits (2026)

Before operating a business from a Westminster home, the operator must obtain a home-based business zoning clearance permit. Under the permit chapter, the establishment of a home-based business (as defined in the zoning code) within any residential dwelling unit requires issuance of this permit, and a business license will not be issued for a business in a residential dwelling without the approval of the home-based business zoning clearance permit. The application is submitted to the Planning Division on a form supplied by the Division, and the applicant must provide all required information, including the written permission of the home owner or property manager — a key requirement for renters. Within 10 days of receiving a completed application, the Director or designee may deny, approve, or conditionally approve it. Approval is available only for a business that is not prohibited under section 17.400.075.C and that meets all operational standards in section 17.400.075.B. The permit is personal and location-specific: it cannot be transferred, assigned, or used by anyone other than the original permittee, and it is valid only at the address designated on the permit. Operators should also obtain a City business license through the City's licensing process. State-protected uses, such as family day care homes and cottage food operations, have their own state-driven permitting framework and cannot be denied a residential location, though they remain subject to reasonable conditions. Contact the Planning Division at (714) 548-3247 for the current application and any fees.