Municipal ordinances such as zoning laws are laws enacted by municipal governments on matters the state allows to be regulated at the local level—such as whether a building or tract of land can be used for residential purposes, commercial purposes, or both—as well as the permitted height of buildings; building setbacks (from streets); the permitted number of bedrooms; and the required parking spaces.

Municipal ordinances have the same force and effect within a municipality’s limits as a state statute does. If you plan to buy a lot to build a new home or buy, rent, build, or work out of a physical property for your business, make sure your intended use conforms to local zoning requirements.

Neighborhoods are generally zoned for either commercial or residential use. Zoning ordinances can restrict or ban specific kinds of businesses (bars, adult entertainment) from operating in an area.

You may have fewer zoning restrictions if you base your business out of your home, but zoning ordinances can still apply to home-based businesses.

In Washington State, municipal ordinances, including zoning laws, are established by local governments such as cities and towns. These ordinances regulate land use within the municipality's boundaries, determining how property can be used, the types of structures that can be built, and the activities that can take place. Zoning laws typically dictate whether land can be used for residential, commercial, or industrial purposes, and they set parameters for building heights, setbacks, density, and parking requirements. They can also restrict certain types of businesses, like bars or adult entertainment venues, from operating in specific areas. When planning to purchase or develop property, it's crucial to ensure that the intended use is in compliance with the local zoning regulations. Even home-based businesses are subject to zoning laws, which may impose limitations on the nature and scale of business activities that can be conducted from a residence. Violating zoning ordinances can result in legal consequences, including fines and orders to cease non-compliant uses. It's advisable to consult with an attorney or the local planning department to understand the specific zoning requirements applicable to a property.