Home-Based Business Rules in Southfield, Michigan
Zoning regulations, permit requirements, and restrictions for running a business from your home in Southfield, MI.
Home Businesses Allowed?
Yes, with Conditions
Employees Allowed
Up to 1
Restrictions & Requirements
| Rule | Requirement |
|---|
| Maximum Floor Area | 25% of home |
| Signage | Not permitted |
| Commercial Vehicles | No |
| Noise/Odor Restrictions | Yes |
Prohibited Home Business Types
- 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
Selling Homemade Food in Michigan (Cottage Food Law)
If your home business involves selling food, Michigan's cottage food law sets separate, statewide rules that apply on top of Michigan's local zoning. Here is the verified current picture:
| Annual sales limit | $50,000/yr, or $75,000/yr if products are sold at $250+ per unit. Limits adjust for inflation after October 2026 (raised from $25,000 by a 2026 update). |
| Permit / registration | Not required |
| Where you can sell | Direct-to-consumer sales |
| Labeling required | Yes |
Michigan raised its cottage food cap in 2026 from $25,000 to $50,000 (or $75,000 for higher-priced units). Direct-to-consumer sales only; no license, registration, or inspection.
Source: michigan.gov
· Verified 2026-08-25
Official Southfield Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to run a business from home in Southfield, MI?
Yes, Southfield requires a home occupation permit. Contact your local planning/zoning department to apply.
Can I have employees work at my home business in Southfield?
Southfield 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 Southfield, MI?
Most business types are allowed as home occupations in Southfield, 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 Southfield?
No, Southfield does not permit exterior signage for home-based businesses.
Other Cities in This State
Last verified: 19 days ago · state cottage food law verified 2026-08-25.
Data confidence: General guidance.
Laws change frequently. Always confirm current requirements with your local planning/zoning department
before starting a home business.