Home businesses in Washington, DC
A home business needs a Home Occupation Permit. It may use up to 25% of the home (reported as no more than 250 sq ft), have up to two non-resident employees and about eight client visits a day.
A person last checked these rules on October 20, 2026. This is guidance only, so confirm with Washington before you build.
The details
- The home must be your primary residence, and the business needs a Home Occupation Permit and a basic business license.Medium confidence
- Limits reported by DOB guidance: 25% of floor area, 2 non-resident employees, 8 visits a day, one unlit sign up to 144 sq in, no commercial vehicles stored on site.Medium confidence
Check a project at your address
SetbackIQ reads the zoning, flood zone, historic district, and environmental maps for your lot. Then it applies these rules.
Common questions
- Can I run a business from home in Washington?
- A home business needs a Home Occupation Permit. It may use up to 25% of the home (reported as no more than 250 sq ft), have up to two non-resident employees and about eight client visits a day.
Sources
- Technical.ly, What DC zoning allows for your home office (citing DCRA/DOB home occupation rules, 2022). Checked 2026-10-21
Up to 25% of the home's total floor space may be used, and the office can't exceed 250 square feet... Two non-resident employees are allowed... Up to eight visits per day... One unlit exterior sign... can't be larger than 144 square inches.
Disclaimer: This is general information, not legal or professional advice for any one property. Codes change. SetbackIQ is not a zoning determination, a permit, or a survey, and it does not replace an architect, engineer, or lawyer. Confirm with your building and zoning offices before you build, buy, or sign a contract.