Some Tulsa residents are putting a new spin on the phrase “work from home” by turning their houses into businesses. But before you take this route, you’ll want to get familiar with city regulations.
This was an issue in November, when the city sent a zoning violation notice to a Maple Ridge resident for hosting ticketed holiday tours of her home. Amber Welch’s neighbors complained that the tours were illegal.
Welch ultimately canceled the tours, according to 2 News Oklahoma, after the city said she needed “a special exception in the zoning code” to operate.
Here are some other regulations for conducting residential businesses and yard sales in Tulsa.
Neighborhood businesses are not always permitted
Tulsa typically does not permit businesses to operate in residential neighborhoods, according to the city’s code of ordinances. That includes auto repair shops, onsite sales or sites that increase car traffic in and out of the neighborhood.
If a complaint is filed about any violations, the city would investigate, assess if the business produces noise or odor and potentially issue violations or fines. If disturbing odors are reported, the Tulsa Health Department could get involved.
Commercial vehicles are prohibited unless they don’t impact traffic flow to and from the residential business. All other impacts to traffic flow should be minimal.
What licenses or permits are required?
Tulsa requires people to fill out and mail in a license form, which can be found on the city’s website. The permitting process can be done through the city’s website or in person at City Hall between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.
What about yard sales?
Yard sales don’t need permits, but there are restrictions.
Tulsans can host yard sales — but only up to twice a year, according to city policy. The sale cannot last longer than four days. It’s illegal to sell items that were intentionally bought to be resold.
A specific homeowners association policy or guide may also have regulations.
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