Laramie County Commissioners Vote to Expand Home Business Rights
Published on August 06, 2025
Laramie County Commissioners Vote to Expand Home Business Rights and Cut Red Tape for Small Businesses
LARAMIE COUNTY, WY- The Laramie County Board of Commissioners took bold action at last night’s meeting to protect private property rights and support local entrepreneurs through major updates to the County’s Land Use Regulations. Effective immediately, home-based businesses, also known as Home Occupations, are now a use by right in all areas of unincorporated Laramie County.
In a move toward deregulation and small business empowerment, the Board voted to eliminate all requirements for permits, site plans, and applications for Home Occupations. Residents no longer need county permission to operate a business from their home. This is a big win for the hundreds of residents who have quietly and responsibly operated home businesses for years,” said Commissioner Gunnar Malm. “We’re removing red tape, expanding opportunity, and making it easier for people to succeed without unnecessary government interference.” Historically, Home Occupations were limited to certain zoning districts and subject to regulatory hurdles. The approved changes expand access and legal protections for these businesses countywide representing a significant step forward in promoting economic freedom and flexibility for Laramie County residents.
The Commissioners also directly addressed misinformation surrounding the new rules. Neither the previous nor the updated regulations restrict or prohibit livestock ownership, FFA and 4-H participation, or agricultural activities. These uses are fully protected under both state law and county policy. In addition to the changes for home businesses, the Board approved updates that benefit small commercial projects. In many cases, business owners will no longer be required to submit costly engineered site plans. A simplified site plan option is now available, saving thousands of dollars in upfront expenses and easing the burden for local startups and growing enterprises. “These reforms reflect our long-standing commitment to protecting rural lifestyles, promoting small business growth, and defending private property rights,” Malm added. “We appreciate the community’s input and remain committed to transparent, pro-resident policymaking.”
For more information about the changes to the Land Use Regulations, visit: www.laramiecountywy.gov