AUSTIN, Texas — The Austin City Council has passed a resolution making it easier for residents to run businesses out of their homes.
The resolution will allow business to be conducted from exterior portions of property, like front porches, front yards and dedicated stands. The resolution also adjusts standards to better support front-yard businesses in their use of structural alterations and signs.
“Small-scale neighborhood commerce is not a problem to be restricted,” founder and president of Homemade Texas, Kelley Masters, said in a statement of support for the resolution. “Rather, it is an asset that strengthens communities.”
The resolution also allows for on-premise sales of things like artisanal goods, service windows for small-scale repair services and garden stands for plants.
“By removing commercial rent as a barrier to entry, Front Yard Businesses give everyday Austinites the opportunity to build wealth and explore entrepreneurial ventures without taking on the risk and expense of commercial space,” the Austin Board of REALTORS said in a letter of support.
The City Council says the change is intended to increase walkability and decentralize economic opportunity.