Pasadena Zoning Restrictions Rules (2026): What You Need to Know

Pasadena Municipal Code Chapter 17.50 establishes the regulations for home occupations in residential zones. A home occupation is defined as a business, profession, trade, or other commercial activity conducted entirely within a dwelling unit by its residents, clearly incidental and secondary to the use of the dwelling as a residence. Home occupations are permitted without a separate conditional use permit provided all performance standards are met.

The business must be conducted entirely within the enclosed dwelling unit, with no exterior evidence of the commercial activity. No more than 25% of the total floor area of the dwelling may be devoted to the home occupation. No clients, customers, patients, or business-related visitors may come to the residence. No employees other than the residents of the dwelling are permitted to work on-site. The business may not generate truck deliveries beyond what is typical for a residence, and commercial vehicles associated with the business may not be stored on-site or on the street on a regular basis. No mechanical or electrical equipment producing noise, odor, vibration, glare, or electrical interference detectable beyond the property line is permitted. Storage of hazardous materials or inventory beyond incidental household quantities is prohibited. Home businesses that do not meet these standards must apply for a Conditional Use Permit from the Planning Commission. Contact the Planning Division at (626) 744-4009.