This Tuesday, October 4th, the Oakland City Council will vote on a proposed amendment to the “home occupation”(home-based business) rules that would enable plant-based crop growing for the purpose of onsite sales with an appropriate permit.

Ever since famed author and urban farmer Novella Carpenter was threatened with a $2,500 fine for growing and selling food without a proper permit, Oakland officials have been working to make it easier for residents, local groups, and businesses to start their own urban farms and gardens.

“The Oakland Food Policy Council is very supportive of this rule change,” said Aaron Lehmer, council member and Campaigns Director at Bay Localize, an Oakland-based nonprofit that’s been organizing urban farmers and community advocates in support of farm-friendly policies. “We need a clear and affordable process for residents and entrepreneurs wishing to start their own food-growing businesses.”

Local groups such as the Oakland Food Policy Council, East Bay Urban Agriculture Alliance, the Oakland Climate Action Coalition, Bay Localize and others continue to organize residents around policy changes that boost local food production and the sale of fresh produce within city limits, as well as for humane, neighbor-friendly, and safe standards for raising animals for personal consumption. Advocates also point out that neighborhoods with community gardens and farms also see reduced crime, higher voter registrations, and increased civic responsibility.

Additional changes to Oakland’s zoning laws are now under development, with future community meetings and consideration by the appropriate agencies and City Council expected in the early part of 2012.

How to Start a Home-Grown Produce Business in Oakland

1) Obtain a “home occupation” permit through the city’s Community and Economic Development Agency (CEDA) for a nominal fee of $40. (With this rule change, residents will no longer need to obtain a Conditional Use Permit for growing crops with the intent to sell, according to Esperanza Pallana of East Bay Urban Agriculture Alliance.)

2) Apply for a Seller Permit from the California Franchise Tax Board, which is the standard process for starting a business in California.