Knox County, TN Home Business: Zoning & Home Occupation Permits (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing section
- Zoning Ordinance 4.90
- Employees
- Resident household members only
- Floor area
- Max 25% of dwelling
- Accessory building
- Not allowed for the business
- Approval
- Code Administration, before start
Summary
Knox County allows home occupations in residential zones only if no non-resident works there, no more than 25% of the dwelling's floor area is used, there is no outdoor storage or change to the building's appearance, and the business is conducted in the house, not an accessory building.
No person other than household members residing on the premises shall be engaged in such occupation. Not more than twenty-five (25) percent of the floor area of the dwelling unit shall be used in the conduct of the home occupation. No home occupation shall be conducted in any accessory building.
Full Breakdown
Knox County Zoning Ordinance section 4.90 defines home occupations and lists the conditions. Only household members residing on the premises may be engaged in the occupation. No more than 25% of the dwelling unit's floor area may be used. There can be no change in the outside appearance and no outdoor storage other than vehicles. No home occupation may be conducted in an accessory building. Sales are limited to services or products produced on the premises, traffic cannot exceed a normal residential level, and no noise, vibration, glare, fumes, or interference may be detectable off the lot. The Department of Code Administration must approve every home occupation before it begins.
Violations & Fines
Operating a home occupation that breaks these conditions is a zoning violation subject to enforcement by Code Administration, including orders to cease.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I hire an employee for my home business?
Can I run my business from a detached garage?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Knox County
How Knox County compares: Easiest Cities to Run a Home Business·Compare Knox County to another location·View the Tennessee home business overview
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