What You Should Know About Home Businesses

HOME OCCUPATION LOCATED IN RESIDENTIAL ZONE
A resident may conduct a business out of a home in residential zones provided that such business does not change the character of the residential use. Typical allowed home occupations include an office use, tax preparation, and clothing alteration. A Home Occupation License must be obtained and the license fee is based on gross annual receipts. The following criteria and conditions must be met:
1. Only family members who live on the premises may help with the business;
2. Total area of the business shall not exceed one room or 400 sq. ft. of the house;
3. No outdoor storage is allowed;
4. The business shall not occupy the required parking spaces in a garage and must comply with off-street parking requirements;
5. Only vehicles registered to the occupants and normally used for personal purposes shall be kept on the premises;
6. No pedestrian or vehicular traffic can be generated;
7. Use of utilities, community facilities and services shall not exceed normal household use;
8. Only those materials and mechanical equipment normally used in a household is permitted;
9. No business signs are permitted; and
10. The residential appearance of the house must be maintained.
RESIDENTIAL USE LOCATED IN NON-RESIDENTIAL ZONE
A home occupation conducted out of a residential use in a non-residential zone may be permitted with the City Administrator's approval only.

For details, exceptions and other requirements, contact the City of Lomita Planning Dept. at 310-325-7110.