Worcester allows home occupations in residential zones as an accessory use under the zoning ordinance. The business must be secondary to the residential use, conducted within the dwelling, and not change the residential character.
Worcester's zoning ordinance permits home occupations as an accessory use in residential districts. The home business must be clearly incidental and secondary to the residential use. Typical requirements include: the business operator must reside in the dwelling, no more than 25% of the floor area may be used for business, no exterior evidence of the business, no outdoor storage of inventory or materials, and limited employees (usually residents only). The business must not generate excessive traffic, noise, or nuisance. Certain home occupations like professional offices, tutoring, and remote work are commonly permitted. Businesses requiring client visits or retail sales may need special permits from the Zoning Board of Appeals.
Zoning violation: fines. May be ordered to cease operations. Special permit revocation possible.
Worcester, MA
Worcester enforces quiet hours between 10 PM and 7 AM on weekdays and 11 PM to 7 AM on weekends under the city's Excessive and Unreasonable Noise ordinance. ...
Worcester, MA
Worcester regulates construction noise under its noise ordinance. Construction activities generating excessive noise are restricted during quiet hours. Permi...
Worcester, MA
Worcester addresses barking dogs under both the noise ordinance and animal control regulations. Dogs creating persistent noise that disturbs neighbors consti...
Worcester, MA
MGL c. 90, §22C — abandoned vehicles on public ways tagged after 72 hours, may be towed. Worcester Police and DPW enforce. City also has an 'Unregistered Veh...
Worcester, MA
Worcester regulates parking of recreational vehicles, boats, and trailers in residential areas. These vehicles should be stored on private property and are s...
Worcester, MA
Worcester requires vehicles to be parked on approved hard surfaces. Driveway construction or modification requires permits. Vehicles may not be parked on fro...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Worcester County.
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