Home Based Business

Can I start a business out of my home?

When opening or operating a business out of your home, you must first make sure that the City of Tacoma zoning codes allow for the type of business you want to open in your location. The City of Tacoma’s govME website is an easy place to enter your address and find out the current zoning for your home. Keep in mind if this is your first visit to govME you may be required to install a simple program from the site.

Once you have that information, you can read the City of Tacoma municipal code zoning requirements or give Planning and Development Services a call at 253.591.5577 and they can help you determine if your business is allowed in your zone.

The City of Tacoma zoning allows me to operate my business out of my home. Is a license or permit needed?

Yes, any individual who owns or operates a business from a residence inside the city is required to obtain a City of Tacoma Business License, Home Occupation Agreement (HOA), and Certificate of Registration to legally operate.

What is a Home Occupation Agreement?

The Home Occupation Agreement is required regardless of the amount of revenue the business generates and whether the business is a part-time or full-time enterprise and requires a one-time fee of $75. If you change the type of services or goods your business is providing, you will be subject to another application and processing fee.

Home Occupation License Fee: $75*

* Make sure to check with Tax & Licensing division at 253.591.5252 for the most up-to-date license fees.