Springfield, OR Home Business: Zoning & Home Occupation Permits (2026)

Springfield Development Code section 4.7.365 permits a home business, defined as a lawful activity carried on within a dwelling or accessory structure by a permanent occupant of that dwelling, only if it meets every standard listed in the section. Subsection (A) requires the building's primary use to remain a dwelling, and subsection (B) requires the business to stay a secondary use that does not significantly affect the residential character of the dwelling or neighborhood. Subsection (C) lists standards that must always be maintained: no exterior display indicating the building serves any purpose other than a residential dwelling; no outside storage of materials visible from public or adjacent private property; no mechanical equipment unless compatible with residential purposes; no noise, vibration, smoke, dust, odor, heat or glare noticeable at or beyond the property line; no more than one vehicle used in the operation, limited to a passenger vehicle, van or light-duty pickup; and no use of the residence as a dispatch center sending employees or subcontractors out to other job sites.

Subsection (D) bans certain uses outright as home businesses regardless of compliance with the general standards, including automobile repair, health salons and group exercise or martial-arts studios, medical or dental offices, mortician and hearse services, tow truck services, veterinary uses, and wholesale distribution using more than 40 percent of the primary residence. An applicant must sign a City agreement acknowledging the applicable standards before operating.