What resources can home-business owners seek out to make their businesses legitimate?

The home-based business first must be approved by the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (Park and Planning). Once the use has been approved, a life safety inspection is conducted. If the use is found to be code-compliant, a Use and Occupancy Permit (U&O) can be issued by the Department of Permitting, Inspections and Enforcement (DPIE).

In many cases, however, the property owner will not be able to operate the business legally. Auto repair shops, nail salons and eateries, among many others, are prohibited and violate the code because of zoning restrictions and life safety concerns. Anyone interested in running a business at home should reach out to the Zoning Office at Park and Planning for information about the property’s zoning and permitted uses. DPIE’s Business Development Section (BDS) is a great resource for helping aspiring entrepreneurs and business owners navigate the permitting process.

Related questions

Unlicensed Businesses (Permitting, Inspections and Enforcement)

How accessible are these licenses to most residents?

There are a variety of processes for licensing. The applicant can find that out by researching the business they wish to operate. Much of the information related to licensing can be found online. Aspiring entrepreneurs should also be aware that a license may not be issued until a Use & Occupancy has been approved.

How long does it take to obtain a business license?

The cost and time that it takes to secure a license depends on the type of license.

What are some examples of home businesses that are legal in PG County?

With a valid Use & Occupancy Permit, the following businesses may operate out of residences: two-chair hair salons; some types of consulting and training businesses; some exercise classes; a licensed daycare; and a licensed senior care facility. For additional businesses, contact Prince George’s Department of Parks and Planning.

What are the biggest reasons why people start businesses out of their homes?

The reasons are many. It may be that people who are unemployed or want to become entrepreneurs operate businesses out of their homes. During COVID, when many people lost their jobs because of social distancing mandates or stalled businesses, they may have turned to operating illegal businesses at home to feed their families. Some may do it for extra money. Some may want to avoid paying rent and other expenses related to an appropriate commercial space.

What kind of unlicensed businesses are illegal?

Any business that does not have a valid Use and Occupancy Permit (U&O). Those businesses may include operating a lawn maintenance or tree-trimming business out of your home. Preparing and serving food for sale, repairing and painting vehicles in a driveway or garage, operating a nail salon, and running an unlicensed daycare or adult care facility are also violations of County code. Some businesses require State or business licenses. If you operate a business without a State or business license, you are also in violation.

Where can PG County residents acquire licenses for their businesses?

DPIE only issues licenses for a few businesses. Once a Use & Occupancy Permit has been received, the aspiring business owner should research the required license and apply to the appropriate agency. It is the applicant’s responsibility to secure the appropriate license before operating. For more information about businesses licensed by DPIE, visit the DPIE website’s Business Licensing page.