Larimer County, CO Home Business: Zoning & Home Occupation Permits (2026)
Key Facts
- Limited permit
- Use by right; certificate encouraged
- Floor area
- 50% of dwelling, max 800 sq ft
- Non-resident employees
- One full-time-equivalent
- Traffic cap
- 10 vehicle trips per day
- Retail sales
- Up to 30 days per year
Summary
A Limited home occupation in unincorporated Larimer County is a use by right; a registration certificate is encouraged but not mandatory. It may use up to 50% of the dwelling, not exceeding 800 square feet, employ one non-resident worker, and generate up to 10 vehicle trips per day. Larger operations
The Home Occupation may utilize up to 50% of the square footage of the dwelling, including basement and attached garage, not to exceed 800 square feet. ... Traffic is limited to 10 vehicle trips per day for any purpose, including employees, deliveries and customers.
Full Breakdown
Under Land Use Code Article 3.4.7.B, a Limited home occupation may occupy up to 50% of the dwelling's square footage (including basement and attached garage) but never more than 800 square feet, and may operate in a detached building up to 800 square feet. It may employ family who live on-site plus one full-time-equivalent employee who does not reside there. All parking must be on-site and outside required setbacks, traffic is capped at 10 vehicle trips per day, and retail sales of associated products are limited to 30 days per calendar year. A Large home occupation (outdoor storage, or 800 to 1,200 square feet) requires Administrative Special Review approval.
Violations & Fines
Exceeding the Limited standards without Administrative Special Review is a zoning violation; the county can order the use to cease or scale back.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for a home business?
Can I hire employees?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Larimer County
How Larimer County compares: Easiest Cities to Run a Home Business·Compare Larimer County to another location·View the Colorado home business overview
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