Can I run a business from my home in Rochester Hills?

Yes, with conditions. Home occupations are permitted by right in the RE and R-1 through R-5 districts (§ 138-4.413) and in RMH manufactured housing parks (§ 138-6.402.A.5). They are not permitted in RM-1.

The conditions (§ 138-4.413.A):

• The business stays incidental to the residential use.
• Traffic stays limited beyond normal domestic trips and deliveries.
• No more than two non-resident employees.
• No signs other than allowed vehicle signs (§ 138-10.308).
• The activity stays in keeping with the residential neighborhood, with no nuisance.

If a case is questionable, the mayor may refer it to the Zoning Board of Appeals, which can issue an annually renewable permit after a public hearing (§ 138-4.413.C).