Business

Home-Based Business

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Residential Business Criteria

Businesses registered at a residential location, such as a home, apartment, or condominium, are required to complete a Business Tax Application and submit business tax payment. Any Fremont business that does not have a commercial or industrial location is considered to be a home-based business, even if the sales or services are performed outside of the business location.

Post Office Boxes

Post office boxes, whether U.S. or private, can only be used as mailing addresses and cannot be registered as commercial locations. Also, rented storage facilities may not be used as your business location.

Home Occupation Permit

Approval of a Home Occupation Permit is required when a business is registered to a residential property and ensures that permitted business activity does not cause an adverse effect on adjacent properties. Regulations are imposed on the permit to preserve the character and quality of the residential neighborhood in which business is conducted.

If you wish to register a business to a residential location, you must complete a new Business Tax Application and obtain Home Occupation Permit approval prior to commencing business.

Business Tax Account Registration and Home Occupation Permit Fee

Most home-based businesses, whether sales or service related, pay a $69 fee to register, plus a $4 State mandated ADA fee. The $69 fee consists of a $30 one-year Business Tax registration fee and a $39 five-year Home Occupation Permit fee. If you do not own the residence where the business will be based, the signature of the property owner, landlord, or property manager is required on the Property Owner Authorization Form.

Questions

If you have questions regarding the types of businesses allowed to operate in residential, commercial, or industrial locations, please contact the Planning Division by email or by calling 510-494-4455. Generally, new Business Tax Applications and Home Occupation Permits are approved by Planning staff at the Permit Center/Development Services Center.

Disclaimer

This information can change over time. Please contact the City's Planning Division by email for the most current information.