Can I run a business from my home in Novi?

Yes, within tight limits. Home occupations are permitted in the RA, R-1, R-2, R-3, and R-4 districts, and by cross-reference in the other districts that adopt those residential use lists, subject to five conditions (Section 4.4):

1. Nothing visible: no sign, advertising device, or other indication of the business, inside or outside the dwelling. 2. Indoors and resident-run: the occupation must be conducted wholly within the main building by the people who live there. Working out of a detached garage or shed does not qualify. 3. No retail on site: no stock in trade may be kept, and nothing may be sold or offered for sale from the home. Goods made in the home may be delivered to markets elsewhere. 4. No extra parking demand beyond what the house itself requires. 5. No nuisance: objectionable noise, fumes, odor, dust, electrical interference, or more than normal residential traffic makes the occupation prohibited.

A quiet office with clients handled by phone or email fits easily. A business with employees, customer visits, or deliveries likely fails conditions 2, 4, or 5. When in doubt, describe your setup to the Community Development Department at 248-347-0415.