Milpitas, CA Home Business: Zoning Restrictions (2026)

Under the City of Milpitas Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance, Section C.10.130 (Home Occupations), the purpose is to let residents conduct business at home without interfering with or detracting from the character of the neighborhood. Home occupations are a permitted use in residential zones. General standards require that only the residents of the dwelling may operate the home occupation, and no employees associated with the business may report to work on the premises. The home occupation must be conducted entirely within the dwelling, except for occupations conducted entirely off-site away from the home. Outdoor storage of materials, supplies, or equipment visible from adjacent properties or public ways is prohibited, as are exterior alterations inconsistent with residential use. A home occupation must not create offensive noise, dust, vibration, smell, smoke, heat, glare, refuse, radiation, electrical disturbance, or other nuisance perceptible at or beyond any lot line. Certain uses are prohibited as home occupations, including adult-oriented businesses, most animal care, vehicle-related uses, commercial cannabis, eating and drinking establishments, food and beverage processing, maintenance and repair services, massage establishments, medical offices, personal services, and most retail (except phone/internet sales shipped to customers).