Arcadia, CA Home Business: Zoning & Home Occupation Permits (2026)

Section 9107.13.020 sets the rule: no person can carry on any business, calling, profession, occupation, or trade on residentially zoned property without an approved and unrevoked or unsuspended Home Occupation Permit. The permit exists for uses conducted within a dwelling that are clearly incidental and secondary to residential use, and it covers single-family, multifamily, mixed use, and accessory dwelling residences. Establishing one is regulated by a one-time application and fee under the Fee Schedule, and no permit is issued for a property on which a violation of the law exists.

The Development Services Director reviews applications with no public notice or hearing (§ 9107.13.030) and either approves or refers the application to the Planning Commission. Approval requires findings that the use fits the General Plan and zone, meets every standard, is not detrimental to public health, safety, or welfare, and neither interferes with neighbors nor creates traffic or pedestrian hazards (§ 9107.13.080). After the permit takes effect, the applicant obtains a Business License under Municipal Code Section 6211.

Section 9104.02.170 supplies the operating standards. Only the permanent residents of the dwelling can be employed on the premises. No more than two Home Occupation Permits can be effective per residential unit. The use is limited to not more than one room or a maximum of 600 square feet, whichever is greater. Garage use requires that all required vehicle storage be maintained and that garage doors stay closed except when a vehicle enters or exits. Exterior use or storage of materials or mechanical equipment is not allowed, and the dwelling cannot look like it serves a nonresidential use. For rental property, the owner's or property manager's written authorization must accompany the Business License application.

Section 9107.13.050 prohibits adult businesses, alcohol sales, barber and beauty shops, on-site massage establishments, medical and dental offices, tattoo parlors, vehicle repair, and retail or wholesale sales of products stored at the residence, among other uses. The permit is not transferable and expires immediately on discontinuance, and a change to a different activity requires a new permit and Business License.