Ventura County Zoning Restrictions Rules (2026) — What You Need to Know

Home occupation regulations in unincorporated Ventura County are governed by Section 8107-1.7.1 of the county zoning code. The intent is to allow residents to run small businesses from home without changing the residential character of the neighborhood. The rules are specific and strictly enforced.

Before starting a home business, you need two things: a Zoning Clearance from the Resource Management Agency (confirming your business type is permitted in your zone) and a Business Tax Certificate from the county. The Zoning Clearance process involves a review of the proposed business against the home occupation standards.

The signage restriction is absolute — no signs of any kind related to the business may be displayed on the property or visible from the street. This includes window signs, yard signs, and banner displays. The business must be invisible from the exterior.

Only household members living at the residence can work in the business. You cannot hire outside employees to work at your home. If you need staff, they must work from a separate commercial location.

Client and customer traffic is tightly controlled. Visits are limited to a maximum of 6 clients per day, and all visits must be by appointment only — no walk-ins. Client hours are restricted to 9 AM to 5 PM, Monday through Friday. No client visits on weekends or evenings.

Vehicle and delivery restrictions round out the rules. Only one commercial vehicle may be kept on the property, and it must not exceed 10,000 pounds gross vehicle weight. Business-related deliveries are limited to two per week, which means you need to plan your supply chain carefully if your business involves physical goods.