If you plan to run a business in your house, you’re in good company. Approximately 50% of the businesses in the United States start at home.
But before you take those first steps towards entrepreneurship, it’s important to understand how Arlington’s zoning laws will impact your home-based business.
What is the purpose of zoning laws?
Zoning laws serve several vital purposes in communities, such as:
- Designating specific areas for residential, commercial, industrial and agricultural use which helps to prevent incompatible land uses from being next to each other
- Assist in planning the growth and development of communities and ensure that infrastructure like roads, schools and parks are provided for
- Help maintain property values within a community
- Protect natural resources and manage environmental impact
- Ensure public health and safety
- Preserve and protect the aesthetic nature of a community, historical and cultural sites
Arlington has multiple zoning districts, including residential, light industrial, business parks, commercial, planned development and mixed-use. It also has a Unified Development Code that specifies how the land in each zone can be used. If your home is in a residential area, there could be restrictions on the type and scale of the business activities conducted from your home. A business that generates heavy foot traffic or noise might be prohibited. However, you may have more leeway if your home is in a commercial or mixed-use zone. These areas tend to be more flexible and allow for a broader range of home-based businesses.
Before you start the process of setting up your home-based business, it’s imperative that you know which zone you’re located in and any restrictions you may face. If your company doesn’t comply with existing zoning laws but you believe it won’t negatively impact your neighborhood, you can apply for a zoning variance.
If you feel overwhelmed by the complexity of Arlington’s various zoning districts and their uses, consider discussing your plans with someone who can do the research for you, guide you through the process and ensure your business is in compliance.