Baytown, TX Home Business: Zoning Restrictions (2026)

Baytown regulates home occupations through its Zoning Ordinance to ensure businesses do not disrupt the residential character of neighborhoods. A home occupation must be conducted entirely within the principal dwelling or an attached accessory building and must be clearly incidental to the residential use. The business operator must be a resident of the dwelling. No more than 25% of the total floor area of the dwelling may be dedicated to the home occupation. External evidence of the business is prohibited, meaning no commercial signage, outdoor storage of materials, or visible equipment. The home business must not generate noise, vibration, smoke, dust, odors, heat, glare, or electrical interference detectable beyond the property line. Customer and client visits must be limited and must not create traffic or parking impacts beyond what is normal for the neighborhood. No on-street parking for business purposes is permitted. The sale of goods must be limited to items produced on the premises or ordered by mail, phone, or internet. Auto repair, vehicle painting, welding shops, commercial kitchens exceeding cottage food limits, and adult-oriented businesses are prohibited as home occupations. Baytown's proximity to petrochemical facilities means the city is particularly attentive to any home business that might create additional environmental or safety concerns.