| Many home-based business owners ignore the question of zoning laws entirely, either because they’ve never had a problem, or because they aren’t sure where to start. But if you violate zoning regulations, you are putting your business at risk. What are zoning rules? Most municipalities have rules and laws governing what kind of businesses can be operated in a residential area. The basic idea behind zoning regulations is to maintain property values by keeping out the noise, pollution, extra traffic, or any other possible nuisances a business might generate. Some municipalities enforce these laws rigorously. Others take a more laissez-faire approach. What issues are typically covered in zoning regulations? Zoning laws vary greatly. In general, they tend to restrict home businesses in these areas: - Parking
Many laws limit the number of cars that can be parked in front of a residence that has a business.
- Traffic
Similar to parking, these laws attempt to make certain that a home business is not generating additional car and truck traffic in a neighborhood.
- Number of employees
Some ordinances limit the number of employees a home business can have—in fact, some do not allow any employees outside of family members.
- Amount of space
These regulations seek to ensure that the home is still a residence and not a commercial property.
- Signage
Many areas prohibit home businesses from using signs or other methods to identify themselves.
- Noise
Loud businesses like auto repair or even light manufacturing are restricted, since that would be a nuisance to neighbors.
- Trash
This is designed to keep home businesses from overtaxing sanitation services. Contact your municipality to find out what zoning laws are for your area. Homeowner’s associations, co-op boards and other entities can also restrict you from operating a business from your home, even if local zoning regulations allow it. > See also: Home Based Business | 
