In Otonabee-South Monaghan, you may operate a home occupation or a home based industry. The Building and Planning staff are happy to discuss business plans with you and confirm that the property is zoned to suit your needs.
Home industry
The OSM Zoning By-Law defines a home industry as a small scale commercial or industrial establishment that operates entirely within a separate accessory building on the same lot as the home of the proprietor.
The resident owner or occupant must operate the business and have a maximum of three employees.
Zoning and building
A home industry must be in an agricultural (A), rural (RU) or rural residential (RR) zone with a minimum lot size of 0.3 hectares. Operations must be in one accessory building, with a maximum size of 100 metres squared in an RR zone, or 250 metres squared in an A or RU zone. You must screen the building from the road and neighbours, and have an onsite parking area.
Permitted industries
The Township permits the following home based industries:
- Carpentry shop
- Metal/welding shop
- Electrical shop
- Plumbing shop
- Small engine repair
- Landscaping or landscape contracting business
- Nursery greenhouse
- Bus-truck parking and maintenance facility
Home occupation
The OSM Zoning By-Law defines a home occupation as a business conducted for gain or profit within a dwelling unit by a person residing therein.
Zoning and building
A home occupation is permitted in any zone where a dwelling is a permitted use. The business cannot exceed 25% of the gross floor area, up to a maximum of 50 square metres. A home occupation cannot change the residential character of the lot and cannot create a public nuisance through noise, traffic, fumes etc.
The resident owner or occupant must operate the business and have a maximum of one employee.
Permitted Occupations
- Professional trades person
- Art or photographic studio
- Dress maker
- Seamstress
- Hairstylist
- Art or music teacher
- Home daycare that does not require a licence under the Day Nurseries Act