Asheville, NC Home Business: Zoning & Home Occupation Permits (2026)

Home occupation is codified as use (38) under Sec. 7-16-1(c), the same "use by right, subject to special requirements" framework that governs homestays, permitted in every zoning district per the Table of Permitted Uses at Sec. 7-8-1(d). " Subsection d bars on-premises retail sales outright as a component of the use. Subsection e caps the footprint at "a maximum of 30 percent of the gross floor area of the dwelling unit," and specifically allows that space to be housed in an accessory structure rather than the main house.

Subsection f limits parking impact by allowing "only one vehicle principally used in connection with the home occupation" to be parked or stored on the premises. Subsection b restricts outward signage and displays: no goods, products, services, or advertising may be visible from outside the dwelling, though the business is allowed a single attached, non-illuminated sign no larger than one square foot per face with a maximum of two faces. Subsection g bars any equipment or process that creates noise, vibration, glare, fumes, odors, or electrical interference detectable off-premises, and subsection k excludes any use expressly prohibited under the Table of Permitted Uses regardless of the district. The approval procedure and permit fee follow Sec. 7-5-4, the same process that governs homestay permits.