Under FS 559.955, a home-based business must keep the property looking like a normal residence as viewed from the street - which effectively bars business signage that would advertise the business on the home.
Florida's home-based business statute (FS 559.955(3)(c)) requires that, as viewed from the street, the residential property stay consistent with surrounding residential uses and conform to the neighborhood's residential character and architectural aesthetics. In practice this means a home-based business should not post commercial signage that broadcasts the business, and no retail transactions may occur at a structure other than the dwelling. Sarasota County's Unified Development Code separately requires permits for signs in the unincorporated area, and residential-zone sign standards are narrow. Sign rules inside Sarasota, Venice, North Port, or Longboat Key follow those cities' codes.
A sign that violates the county sign code or breaks the FS 559.955 residential-appearance rule can be removed and cited through code enforcement.
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See how Sarasota County's signage rules rules stack up against other locations.
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