- Home occupation permit required:
- Conditional
- Details:
- Powhatan County home occupations are permitted by-right in all residential and agricultural zoning districts per Sec. 83-438(j). No separate home occupation permit is required for standard operations. However, a Powhatan County business license is required. Contact the Commissioner of Revenue's Office (Andrea Ross, 804-598-5616, [email protected]) for business licensing. Home occupation floor area limited to 25% of dwelling; home-based business (2 non-resident employees) limited to 35% of dwelling. One sign of 1 sq ft or less, non-illuminated, mounted on dwelling wall is allowed. For VDACS home food processing permit, written zoning approval is required.
- Home kitchen:
- Virginia state cottage food exemption (Va. Code §3.2-5130) applies. Powhatan County has a detailed home occupation framework under Zoning Ordinance Sec. 83-438(j). Home occupations are permitted by-right (P) in all residential and agricultural zoning districts (A-20, A-10, A-C, RR, RR-5, CR, R-2, VR, VC, R-U, CHSC). Only family members residing in the dwelling may be engaged in the home occupation without a Conditional Use Permit. More intensive home-based businesses (up to 2 non-resident employees) require additional approval. Home bakeries and similar cottage food operations qualify as standard home occupations.
Last verified 2026-05-06. Not legal advice.
