Skip to main content
CityRuleLookup
Key FactsOrdinance TextFull BreakdownViolationsFAQSourcesMore in New Orleans

New Orleans, LA Home Business: Zoning & Home Occupation Permits (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Floor area limit
15% of dwelling unit
Location
Inside dwelling; no accessory bldg
Traffic/parking
No increase over residential
Prohibited uses
Auto repair, dispatch, salons
Governing rule
CZO Sec. 21.6.R

Summary

A New Orleans home occupation must be conducted entirely within the dwelling, be clearly incidental and secondary to residential use, and cannot occupy an accessory structure. It is limited to 15% of the dwelling unit's floor area under CZO Article 21, Section 21.6.R.

The home occupation shall be conducted entirely within the dwelling and shall be clearly incidental and secondary to the use of the dwelling for residential purposes. No home occupation may be operated in an accessory structure.

View official code

Full Breakdown

The Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance limits home occupations so they do not change the residential character of the neighborhood. Vehicular traffic and on-street parking may not increase beyond normal residential use. No stock, merchandise, or products may be displayed, stored, or sold on the premises, and no outside storage of materials, inventory, or heavy equipment is permitted. No exterior alteration or separate business entrance is allowed. Motor-vehicle service and repair, taxicab or vehicle dispatch, and beauty salons are prohibited home occupations. Only one taxi or transportation vehicle may be parked at the residence.

Violations & Fines

Operating a non-compliant home occupation violates the CZO and the acknowledged limitations; enforcement runs through Safety & Permits zoning, which can deny or revoke the license and certificate of occupancy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I run a business from a shed in New Orleans?
No. The home occupation must be conducted entirely within the dwelling and be incidental to residential use. No home occupation may be operated in an accessory structure such as a shed or garage.
How much of my home can the business use?
The home occupation is limited to fifteen percent (15%) of the floor area of the dwelling unit under CZO Section 21.6.R.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in New Orleans

Parking Rules: Street Parking LimitsSome RestrictionsSignage RulesSome RestrictionsHome DaycareSome RestrictionsNoise Ordinances: Vehicle NoiseSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Towing & Impound RightsSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Commercial & Oversized VehiclesHeavy RestrictionsParking Rules: Loading ZonesSome RestrictionsParking Rules: EV ChargingSignificant Restrictions

All New Orleans rules

How New Orleans compares: Easiest Cities to Run a Home Business·Compare New Orleans to another location·View the Louisiana home business overview

Get notified when Zoning & Home Occupation Permits in New Orleans, LA changes

We'll email you the moment we detect a change in the code. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.

We'll never sell or share your email. One-click unsubscribe in every email.

See something wrong?

Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.