Murfreesboro, TN Home Business: Zoning & Home Occupation Permits (2026)
Key Facts
- Permit required
- Board of Zoning Appeals special use permit
- Floor area cap
- 25% of dwelling unit devoted
- Accessory structure cap
- 500 square feet maximum
- Signage
- One sign, under 3 sq ft, BZA-only
- Banned uses
- Auto repair, kennels, taxi, gun dealers
Summary
Murfreesboro requires a Board of Zoning Appeals special use permit for any home occupation, capping it at 25% of dwelling area and barring non-resident employees.
(rr) Home occupations shall be subject to the following additional standards: [1] no person who is not a resident of the dwelling unit may be employed in connection with the home occupation at the dwelling unit or on the property; [2] one attached business sign, not exceeding three square feet, may be permitted subject to approval by the BZA. Such signs shall not be permitted by right; [4] the home occupation shall be incidental and subordinate to the residential use of the dwelling unit.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 18 Update 1).
Full Breakdown
Under Section 9(D)(2)(rr) of the zoning ordinance, home occupations require a Board of Zoning Appeals special use permit and must stay incidental to residential use: no employees who aren't dwelling residents, no more than 25% of the unit (or 500 square feet if run from an accessory structure) devoted to the business, no outdoor storage of equipment, and no machinery that disturbs neighbors' radio, TV, or peace. One attached sign under three square feet may be allowed, but only with BZA approval, never by right. Auto repair, kennels, taxi service, gun dealing, and age-restricted sales like vape or alcohol are barred outright as home occupations.
Violations & Fines
Violating the permit's conditions is itself a violation of the zoning ordinance, and the Board of Zoning Appeals can revoke the special use permit outright per Section 9(B).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I hire employees to help with my home business in Murfreesboro?
Can I put up a sign advertising my home business?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Murfreesboro
How Murfreesboro compares: Easiest Cities to Run a Home Business·Compare Murfreesboro to another location·View the Tennessee home business overview
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