Milford set to mull changes in home occupation rules

The Milford Township Board of Trustees is expected tonight, Wednesday, July 20, to consider the introduction of amendments to the township’s home occupation ordinance.

According to a draft of the amendment, there would be a section added to the township’s zoning ordinance in order to establish regulations pertaining to the administration and enforcement of home occupations and home-based businesses within the township.

The general provisions of the proposed amendment state that not more than three home occupations or home-based businesses can be conducted on a premises and that such occupations or businesses may occupy an area not exceeding 25 percent of a residential floor area.

Home-based businesses conducted in an attached garage or accessory building could not take up more than 15 percent of the floor area, if the changes are approved.

The amendment would also prohibit the open storage of material, unlicensed vehicles, equipment or refuse associated with, or resulting from, a home-based business, but adds that it is not construed to prohibit the storage of tractors, riding mowers and similar vehicles.

Also prohibited would be equipment for, or the ensuing byproducts of, a home occupation that would be deemed a disturbance to the public, whether it is noise, odors, or electrical interference.

The amendment would allow for one unlighted sign not exceeding 2 square feet in area for a home-based business. It also states that not more than two full-time or part-time employees can be on the premises at any one time.

The township will also look to introduce an amendment to include new definitions for home-based business, householder and home occupation.