ABA Family Legal Guide

Forming and Operating a Small Business

Starting a Business

Working from Home

Are there any private regulations that could prevent me from running a business from home?

Even if the zoning folks don't raise any problems, you might run afoul of other regulations. If you live in a condo or co-op, there is certainly a governing document (the declaration or master deed for a condo, or the proprietary lease for a co-op) that spells out the rules and regulations of living there. If you rent, there's probably a lease that tells you what you can and can't do. Sometimes residential developments have declarations of covenants and restrictions put in by the builder, to assure buyers that the quality of living there won't deteriorate.

All of these probably include some standard language designed to deter (or at least limit) the business use of the property. You may be able to gain permission to use your home for business purposes by explaining that it will be unobtrusive, not increase traffic in the area, and not lower the value of other units or homes in a development. It's important to be willing to negotiate and compromise.