Chambana Sun

The Urbana City Council passed amendments dividing home-based businesses into three categories on Feb 1.

Home-based businesses that don't cause a significant impact beyond the home they operate in and only involve the people living in the house will be considered Type A home-based businesses. The business cannot post any signage identifying the house as a business, can not welcome more than two business-related cars at any given time, and cannot use equipment that creates noises or odors outside of the house. Type A businesses that meet all criteria do not need a conditional use permit or certificate of occupancy.

Type B home-based businesses are businesses that generate more traffic because of the coming and going of people related to the business who don't live in the house, such as clients, customers and up to two employees who live elsewhere. Type B businesses are allowed a name plate up to three square feet, 10 daily visitors and require a certificate of occupancy issued by the Urbana Zoning Administrator.

Type C home-based businesses exceed all of the limitations on traffic impact, employees and visitors. Type C businesses are subject to additional regulation include vehicle repair, firearms sales, and any work that involves the handing of chemicals.

The amendments passed by a 6-0 vote.