Clarkston council adopts ordinance exempting most home occupations from business-license requirement

The Clarkston Town Council adopted Ordinance 26‑O2 on April 12, amending the town’s business‑license rules to exempt qualifying home occupations and occasional businesses run by individuals under 19 from the town’s business‑license requirement.

The mayor read the ordinance aloud, which amends Clarkston Town Code Title 3, Chapter 1, to define “home occupation” as an occupation performed wholly within a residence or the yard and accessory buildings and to state that a home occupation "shall not change the character of the residence or the residential neighborhood." The ordinance also adds an exemption for businesses operated only occasionally by an individual who is under 19 years of age.

Council member Peterson moved to pass the ordinance and another council member seconded. The council conducted a roll-call vote: Mayor Thompson — aye; Council member Noble — aye; Council member Goody — aye; Council member Godfrey — absent; Council member Peterson — aye. The ordinance passed and was recorded as approved on April 12, 2026.

Supporters said the change responds to a prior court requirement and gives residents the choice to operate a home occupation without obtaining a town business license while preserving the town’s residential character. The council did not identify additional licensing conditions in the meeting; staff and council said residents may still obtain licenses if they prefer.

The ordinance text read at the meeting will be included in the town’s official minutes and codification materials. The council did not announce further administrative steps during the session; staff follow‑up on implementation was not discussed in detail during the meeting and is not specified in the transcript.