Wichita, KS Home Business: Zoning Restrictions (2026)

Wichita treats home-based businesses as a permitted accessory use in all residential zoning districts (SF-5, SF-6, SF-20, TF-3, MF-18, MF-29) under the Unified Zoning Code. The home occupation must be clearly secondary to the residential use and conducted by a resident of the dwelling. Maximum floor area dedicated to the business is 25 percent of the gross floor area of the dwelling unit, including any portion of an attached garage. Up to one non-resident employee may work on-site. Detached accessory structures generally cannot be used as the primary business space unless the structure is incidental and the activity remains compliant. Prohibited uses include vehicle repair, automotive sales, body shops, kennels, restaurants, tattoo parlors, mortuaries, and any manufacturing or assembly that produces noise, vibration, odor, or emissions detectable beyond the property line. Retail sales of goods not produced on-site are also prohibited, though direct sales of items handcrafted at home are permitted. The use cannot create traffic, parking demand, or noise out of character with the residential neighborhood. Storage of stock, materials, or equipment outside the dwelling must not be visible from the street or adjacent properties.