Showing ordinances that apply to Wheaton, MD
Wheaton is an unincorporated community (population 52,150) in Montgomery County, Maryland. Because Wheaton is not an incorporated city, it does not have its own municipal code. Instead, Montgomery County ordinances apply directly to properties here. The zoning restrictions rules below are the ones that govern your area.
Montgomery County permits home occupations in all residential zones under Zoning Ordinance Ch 59, Section 3.3.3. The business must be secondary to the residential use. No more than 2 non-resident employees allowed. No external evidence of business activity permitted. Annual registration with the county is required.
Montgomery County Zoning Ordinance Ch 59, Section 3.3.3 establishes two categories of home occupations. A no-impact home occupation requires no registration and allows solo work (no employees, no client visits, no deliveries beyond normal residential). A registered home occupation permits up to 2 non-resident employees and limited client visits by appointment only. The business must occupy no more than 33% of the dwelling floor area. No external modifications to the residence are allowed, including separate entrances for the business. Equipment that creates noise, vibration, odor, or electrical interference beyond the property line is prohibited. Commercial vehicle parking is limited to one vehicle not exceeding 10,000 lbs. Prohibited home occupations include auto repair, medical/dental clinics, restaurants, and retail sales with walk-in customers. Online retail with shipping is permitted. Professional services (law, accounting, consulting, design) are typical approved uses. The home must remain the principal residence of the business operator. Home-based childcare for more than 8 children requires a conditional use approval.
Operating without registration: $250 fine. Exceeding employee limit: zoning violation notice, 30 days to correct. External business signage: removal order. Prohibited use: cease-and-desist order with $500 per day civil citation for non-compliance.
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