Running a business from home is a great way to cut back on operating costs. Many small businesses have been doing this for years. After all, commercial space rental fees are a major expense for most small businesses.
However, the legality of operating a business at home isn’t always the same. Requirements, permissions and zoning restrictions for home-based companies typically depend on local city or municipality laws.
Yes, you can run a home business in Minneapolis
Minneapolis allows business operations from home, referred to as home occupations, even if the city designated the area as a residential zone. However, due to zoning laws, you need to follow several rules and standards to maintain living conditions in the neighborhood. These include:
- Limit staff members to fellow home residents or one nonresident employee
- Limit the home occupation to one enclosed area of the house
- Operating hours are only between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.
- Product or supplies shipment and delivery are only between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m.
- Must not generate excessive customer traffic
- Limit outdoor signage to only one flat, unilluminated sign or two for a corner lot home
Restrictions for Minneapolis home occupations
Home occupations in Minnesota can be professional offices, service establishments or home crafts-related businesses. However, the city doesn’t allow you to conduct retail sales from your home occupation. The only exception to this rule is if you sell products connected to your business. For example, if you run a small salon, you may sell hair care products.
Minneapolis also prohibits certain types of home occupations. In general, these are businesses that may negatively affect your neighborhood, such as:
- Motor vehicle repair and other types of vehicle servicing businesses
- Ammunition or firearms sale
- Dispatch centers
Additionally, if you run a salon or barber shop, city restrictions limit you to serving only one client or customer at a time.
Navigating local zoning ordinances
Whether you’re starting a home-based business or moving your base of operations to your house, it is your responsibility to know what local regulations apply to your situation. If you unknowingly violate local zoning regulations, you may face legal action or have to stop business operations. Seeking guidance from an experienced legal professional can help ensure your business stays compliant with laws and regulations.