Westminster, CA Home Business: Zoning Restrictions (2026)

Westminster permits home-based businesses in residential zones, but only as a use clearly incidental and secondary to the residential use of the dwelling. The City's zoning code (Title 17) defines a home-based business as any use of a dwelling unit and related property for employment or occupational purposes by the inhabitants that is incidental to the residential use and conforms to the standards in section 17.400.075. Single-family residential zoning limits each lot to one housing unit, and the City states that commercial or industrial activities in residential neighborhoods — such as auto repair, storage of materials and equipment, deliveries, or parking for visiting clientele — may not take place on the property. A home occupation that does not bring customers or clients to the home and does not disrupt the neighborhood is generally allowed (for example, a home office). The operational standards in section 17.400.075.B and the list of prohibited businesses in section 17.400.075.C control what can be approved; a business that is not prohibited and that meets all operational standards may be approved or conditionally approved by the Planning Division Director. The home-based business must not create radio or television interference, or discernible noise, glare, dust, odor, vibration, or unreasonable disturbance beyond what is acceptable for a residential use. Certain state-protected uses — family day care homes and cottage food operations — are governed by state law and cannot be zoned out of residential areas, even though they still must comply with reasonable local standards. Contact the Planning Division at (714) 548-3247.