One intended purpose of the Zoning Ordinance is to create and maintain conditions where people and their environment can coexist. One way it does this is by separating certain incompatible uses – like preventing businesses such as movie theaters and car washes in residential districts. However, residents can operate some businesses at their home. The Zoning Ordinance calls these home-based businesses (HBBs), which require a permit and have use standards to reduce impact. Examples include offices with no customers, or music lessons for a limited number of students at a time and per day. More HBB information is available on the Department of Code Compliance (DCC) Home-Based Business flyer.

A few other types of commerce or business-like activities can be conducted at home but are not considered HBBs. These are also subject to limits and include:  

• A limited riding or boarding stable (requires 2+ acres and permit);
• Short-term lodging (with permit);
• A home day care facility (zoning application approval is required for over 7 children in a single-family detached dwelling or 5 children in other dwelling types);
• Caring for up to 4 companion animals (pets). No permit is required. However, the Zoning Ordinance limits the number of dogs on a property, and dogs receiving care from a non-owner count toward the property’s limit.

Answers to frequent questions regarding business licensing is available from the Department of Tax Administration. And, for aspiring entrepreneurs, Fairfax CORE (Connecting Opportunities and Resources for Entrepreneurs) can help you find the information and support you need to start and grow your business.

DCC is here to help – if you have questions, want to make a report, or if you are the subject of enforcement and need to contact us. You can report problems online, learn about what happens during an investigation, reach us via email, phone (703-324-1300 / TTY 711), or visit us in person at 12055 Government Center Parkway, Suite 1016, Fairfax, VA 22035.