Richland, WA Home Business: Zoning & Home Occupation Permits (2026)

Under RMC § 23.42.090, the City of Richland, Washington permits a home occupation only as an accessory use to an established residence in a residential district, meant to preserve neighborhood character while letting residents run a business that does not create loud noise, offensive odors, excessive traffic or parking problems. Vehicle repair, motor rebuilding, vehicle painting and any International Fire Code Group H (hazardous materials) occupancy are flatly barred as home occupations regardless of scale. Permitted operations must stay clearly incidental and secondary to residential use, may occupy no more than 20 percent of the dwelling's gross floor area or 300 square feet, whichever is greater (an attached or detached garage may be counted, up to 600 square feet), and may make no external or internal alterations that change the building's residential character.

Noise, vibration, odor, glare or electrical interference may not cross the lot line, or the operation violates the public nuisance ordinance at RMC § 9.16.020. To operate, an applicant files with the Development Services Division, processed alongside the RMC Title 5 business license application; the administrative official must act within 10 days of a complete application, and any denial must be written and state the reasons. The official can revoke approval in writing for noncompliance, voiding the use. Homeowners can appeal a denial or revocation under RMC § 23.70.070, or, if their proposal does not meet the standard requirements, apply for a special use permit under Chapter 23.46 RMC, which the Board of Adjustment may grant unless the use is on the prohibited list.