FL H0403

Creates s. 559.955, F.S., prohibiting local governments from enacting or enforcing ordinances, regulations, or policies that license or regulate home-based businesses in a manner different from other businesses, and authorizes home-based businesses to operate in areas zoned for residential use.

Defines a home-based business as one operating from a residential property where on-site employees reside in the dwelling, except up to 2 non-resident employees or independent contractors may work at the location; business activities must remain secondary to the property's residential use.

Requires parking to comply with local zoning and not exceed volumes typical for a residence without a business; allows local governments to regulate visible heavy equipment (defined as commercial, industrial, or agricultural vehicles, equipment, or machinery) and vehicle/trailer parking, but no more stringently than for non-business residences.

Allows adversely affected current or prospective home-based business owners to challenge local government actions that violate the section, with the prevailing party entitled to recover reasonable attorney fees and costs, including appellate fees.

Does not supersede condominium declarations (ch. 718), cooperative documents (ch. 719), homeowners' association covenants (ch. 720), or local regulations related to transient public lodging establishments; effective July 1, 2021.