Home Based Business Information
Hundreds of people have chosen to make Oro-Medonte the place that they live, work, and play by starting a business from their home or an accessory building on their property. Whether you’re a current resident of the Township or you’re considering a move from the city for a more relaxed rural lifestyle, Oro-Medonte is an ideal place for your home-based business.
From artisans to outdoor recreation tour operators, cozy bed and breakfasts to professional service providers such as accountants and graphic designers, there is
no shortage of businesses operating from homes throughout the Township. If you’re considering starting a home-based business in Oro-Medonte, here are quick answers to some of the questions you might have.
What is considered a home occupation?
The Township’s
Zoning By-law identifies a home occupation as the use of a home or accessory building for business purposes that is clearly secondary to the use of the property as a residence.
Do I need to live on the property that I operate my home-based business from?
Yes. The business must be conducted by at least one of the residents of a dwelling unit located on the lot. One employee who is not a resident on the property is also permitted.
How much space can my business can occupy?
If the business is inside your home, the maximum is 35% of the gross floor area. If the business is in a detached accessory building, the maximum is 50% of the gross floor area for properties with residential zoning. In the Agricultural/Rural zone, the business can occupy 100% of a detached accessory building.
Can I run my home-based business outdoors?
No. Your business must be conducted entirely within a building. Outdoor storage and/or display of materials or finished products is also not permitted.
Are there any types of businesses that are not permitted for a home occupation?
Yes. Industrial-type uses that might create nuisances such as noise, fumes, odour, or dust are not permitted. This includes motor vehicle maintenance and repair, carpentry, machine, or welding shops. Traditional ‘bricks-and-mortar’ storefronts are also not permitted. The sale of commodities not produced on the premises is only permitted if orders are fulfilled by a delivery service (i.e. telephone, mail, or online orders delivered by mail or courier).
Do I need to inform the Township that I am operating a home-based business?
No. As long as your business complies with the Township’s Zoning By-law there is no obligation for you to inform the municipality, but feel free to contact us if you have any questions.
Do I Need a Building Permit?
A building permit is required if your home or accessory building requires construction, alterations, or plumbing to accommodate your business.
For businesses operating within the home, be sure to include the following details when applying for a building permit:
- The existing floor plan for floors that are affected by the proposed construction/alterations;
- The proposed floor plan with labels indicating the proposed use of the rooms;
- Identification of floors that will require structural changes;
- A septic verification approval if plumbing, washrooms, or bedrooms are being added;
- A septic permit if the septic system is being altered, upgraded, or newly installed; and
- Interior finishes such as drywall and cabinetry.
If your business will operate in an accessory building, you will need to include all of the items identified above for a business within the home, as well as:
- Ventilation details for proposed washrooms and office space; and
- A heating system designed to maintain the temperature at 180C if there will be an employee other than the owner in the office space.
Have more questions? Contact a member of the Township’s Economic Development staff at the Township Administration Centre.
