Zoning regulations, permit requirements, and restrictions for running a business from your home in Macon, GA.
Selling Homemade Food in Georgia (Cottage Food Law)
If your home business involves selling food, Georgia's cottage food law sets separate, statewide rules that apply on top of Georgia's local zoning. Here is the verified current picture:
| Annual sales limit | No sales limit (cap removed by HB 398, effective July 1, 2025). |
| Permit / registration | Required — Cottage food license (Georgia Dept of Agriculture) |
| Where you can sell | Direct and some indirect/retail sales |
| Labeling required | Yes |
Georgia's HB 398 (effective July 2025) removed the gross sales limit. Online sales and delivery are allowed. A cottage food license from the Dept of Agriculture is required.
Source: agr.ga.gov
· Verified 2026-08-25
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to run a business from home in Macon, GA?
Yes, Macon requires a home occupation permit. Contact your local planning/zoning department to apply.
Can I have employees work at my home business in Macon?
Macon allows up to 1 non-resident employee(s) for home-based businesses. Additional restrictions may apply.
What types of businesses can I run from home in Macon, GA?
Most business types are allowed as home occupations in Macon, with specific exceptions including: Auto repair or body work, Medical or dental offices with walk-in patients, Restaurants or food service with on-site dining, Retail sales with customer foot traffic, Welding or machining, Animal hospitals or kennels. The business must remain secondary to the residential use of the property.
Can I put a sign for my home business in Macon?
No, Macon does not permit exterior signage for home-based businesses.