Home-Based Business Rules in St. Louis, Missouri
Zoning regulations, permit requirements, and restrictions for running a business from your home in St. Louis, MO.
Home Businesses Allowed?
Yes, with Conditions
Employees Allowed
Up to 1
Restrictions & Requirements
| Rule | Requirement |
|---|
| Maximum Floor Area | 30% of home |
| Signage | Not permitted |
| Commercial Vehicles | No |
| Noise/Odor Restrictions | Yes |
Prohibited Home Business Types
- Auto body or mechanical repair
- Commercial food preparation for off-site sale exceeding cottage food limits
- Barber shops or beauty salons with more than one chair
- Any use requiring hazardous materials storage
Selling Homemade Food in Missouri (Cottage Food Law)
If your home business involves selling food, Missouri's cottage food law sets separate, statewide rules that apply on top of Missouri's local zoning. Here is the verified current picture:
| Annual sales limit | $50,000/yr in gross income per statute (RSMo 196.298). Some sources describe broader 'food freedom' provisions, verify current status. |
| Permit / registration | Not required |
| Where you can sell | Direct-to-consumer sales |
| Labeling required | Yes |
Missouri statute sets a $50,000 gross income cap for direct-to-consumer cottage food sales of non-hazardous foods. Interpretations vary between the statute and some 'food freedom' summaries, so confirm with local authorities.
Source: health.mo.gov
· Verified 2026-08-25
Official St. Louis Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to run a business from home in St. Louis, MO?
Yes, St. Louis requires a home occupation permit. Contact your local planning/zoning department to apply.
Can I have employees work at my home business in St. Louis?
St. Louis 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 St. Louis, MO?
Most business types are allowed as home occupations in St. Louis, with specific exceptions including: Auto body or mechanical repair, Commercial food preparation for off-site sale exceeding cottage food limits, Barber shops or beauty salons with more than one chair, Any use requiring hazardous materials storage. The business must remain secondary to the residential use of the property.
Can I put a sign for my home business in St. Louis?
No, St. Louis 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
and the
official source
before starting a home business.