NYC Zoning Resolution Article II Chapter 2 permits very limited home occupations in residential districts. Only licensed professionals such as doctors, lawyers, and artists may work from home, with strict limits.
In New York County (Manhattan), home-based businesses are governed by the NYC Zoning Resolution Article II Chapter 2, which is among the strictest in the country. Home occupations are permitted in residential districts only if conducted by a resident, occupy no more than 25 percent of the dwelling unit floor area or 500 square feet whichever is less, employ no non-resident workers except for specific professional offices, and produce no external evidence of the business such as signage, noise, odor, or increased traffic. Permitted home occupations include fine arts studios, dressmaking, teaching of no more than four pupils at a time, and professional offices for doctors, dentists, lawyers, architects, engineers, and similar licensed professionals. Retail sales, manufacturing, repair services, and most trades are prohibited. Violations are enforced by the NYC Department of Buildings. Co-op and condo boards often impose additional restrictions that are stricter than zoning. Contact DOB or a zoning attorney before starting a home business.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
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