Do I Need a Permit to Run a Business From Home in Utah?
Quick Answer
Yes — most Utah cities require a home occupation permit.
Even Online Businesses
If you freelance, sell products online, consult, or do any work-for-pay from your home, most Utah cities technically require a home occupation permit. The permit is cheap ($25-$75/year) and approval is almost automatic for low-impact businesses with no customer traffic.
Minor vs. Major
Most cities distinguish between minor home occupations (no customer visits, no employees, no inventory storage) and major home occupations (clients visit, deliveries, limited employees). Minor permits are approved administratively. Major permits may require a public hearing and neighbor notification.
What's Not Allowed
Activities that create noise, odor, traffic, or visible evidence of business use are typically prohibited in residential zones. Auto repair, welding, commercial cooking for resale (without cottage food exemption), and businesses with more than one non-resident employee are usually not allowed.
State vs. City
You need both: a Utah state business registration (through the Division of Corporations) and a local home occupation permit from your city. Some cities also require a separate city business license in addition to the home occupation permit.
Bottom Line
Yes, get the permit — it's $25-$75/year and protects you from zoning complaints. Online and consulting businesses are approved easily.