Seattle, WA Home Business: Zoning Restrictions (2026)

King County Code 21A.30.080 governs home occupations in unincorporated King County, allowing residents to operate small businesses from their primary dwelling as an accessory use in residential zones (RA, R-1 through R-48, UR). The home occupation must be conducted entirely within the dwelling unit or an accessory building and must be clearly secondary to the residential use of the property. Only residents of the dwelling may operate the business, and no more than one non-resident employee may work on-site. The use cannot alter the exterior appearance of the residence, create visible evidence of the business beyond a permitted sign, or produce noise, vibration, glare, fumes, odors, or electrical interference detectable beyond the property line. Retail sales to walk-in customers are generally prohibited, though sales incidental to services rendered on-site (such as hair products sold by a home-based stylist) are allowed. Outdoor storage of materials, equipment, or inventory related to the business is prohibited. The use of hazardous materials beyond normal household quantities is not permitted. Certain uses including auto repair, kennels, commercial food production beyond cottage food, and adult entertainment are expressly prohibited as home occupations. Unincorporated King County areas include White Center, Skyway, Fairwood, East Federal Way, Vashon Island, and rural areas east of the Cascade foothills.