Bill > H248

This bill establishes a legal framework to exempt owner-occupied, single-family dwellings with home business uses from stricter live/work unit building code requirements in North Carolina. The bill defines key terms such as "home business use" (an accessory commercial activity conducted by the owner-occupant), "owner-occupied" (a dwelling serving as the primary residence of at least one property owner), and "single-family dwelling" (a residential building with one dwelling unit). Under the bill, a home business use will not alter the dwelling's classification as a residential property, trigger additional building code requirements, or cause the property to be reclassified as a commercial or mixed-use space. To qualify for this exemption, the home business must be operated directly by the owner-occupant, comply with local zoning laws, and be lawful. The bill also prevents local governments from imposing additional construction or safety requirements beyond residential building codes solely because of a home business use. However, the bill does not limit local zoning powers or supersede private covenants, and home-based businesses must still comply with state and federal laws, permit requirements, and safety regulations. The bill becomes effective immediately and applies to existing and future owner-occupied, single-family dwellings used for home business purposes.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.ncleg.gov/BillLookUp/2025/H248