Zoning regulations, permit requirements, and restrictions for running a business from your home in Portsmouth, VA.
Selling Homemade Food in Virginia (Cottage Food Law)
If your home business involves selling food, Virginia's cottage food law sets separate, statewide rules that apply on top of Virginia's local zoning. Here is the verified current picture:
| Annual sales limit | No general revenue cap under the home food processing exemption. |
| Permit / registration | Home food processing exemption (VDACS) |
| Where you can sell | Direct and some indirect/retail sales |
| Labeling required | Yes |
Virginia's home food processing exemption allows sales of approved non-hazardous foods without a general cap. HB 402 (2026) expanded sales to include online orders and statewide shipping. Confirm allowed venues with VDACS.
Source: vdacs.virginia.gov
· Verified 2026-08-25
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to run a business from home in Portsmouth, VA?
Yes, Portsmouth requires a home occupation permit. Contact your local planning/zoning department to apply.
Can I have employees work at my home business in Portsmouth?
Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth, VA?
Most business types are allowed as home occupations in Portsmouth, 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 Portsmouth?
No, Portsmouth does not permit exterior signage for home-based businesses.