- Home occupation permit required:
- Yes
- Details:
- In unincorporated St. Louis County, any business activity from a residence requires compliance with the Zoning Code definition of Home Occupation. The definition requires the activity be carried on solely by resident family members, with no services to the general public on premises, no stock in trade, no commercial equipment beyond household use, and no exterior signage. A permit is required through County Zoning Review (314-615-2525 or 314-615-7814). Note: St. Louis County is highly fragmented — many residents live in incorporated municipalities (Kirkwood, Florissant, Chesterfield, etc.) each with their own rules. County-level rules apply only in unincorporated areas.
- Home kitchen:
- State law (§196.298) prohibits local health departments from regulating cottage food production. Production must occur in the individual's home kitchen. St. Louis County zoning defines home occupations as domestic activities carried on solely by resident family members with no services offered to the general public and no stock in trade on premises. The county definition creates a tension with cottage food sales — the practical resolution is that cottage food production itself is permissible but a home occupation permit is required for business activity in unincorporated areas.
Last verified 2026-05-06. Not legal advice.
