Virginia Gun Owners Forum - VGOF

I made a common mistake trying to get a home gunsmithing business started. To make a long story short. I applied for a FFL , and 2 months later I get a call from an ATF inspector. He is ready to set a date to come by and talk to me in person. I guess it is like an interview. The next question he asked is your home zoned for a business. I was not 100% sure about this zoning issue. I talked to a code compliance worker, and he said to apply for a home occupation certificate of use and occupancy. Two days later, I received a call from zoning and was turned down flat. Her comment was no gun repair is allowed, and disapproved my permit on what is called a chapter 34.When I looked up what a chapter 34 was. It had something to do with changing the existing structure of the house. I have no plans to change the house. I just want to use my already existing garage. I plan to get a more detailed explanation from the city attorney and the zoning coordinator for the city. The funny thing was I had to explain to the zoning lady, what a gunsmith does. It is true what they say "you can't fix stupid" If anyone can help me with this issue,I would greatly appreciate it. Thanks

I used to know a gentleman at the Beach that converted his detached garage into a workshop and was able to get a business license for gunsmithing. I know he had an FFL because he would do transfers and such. He has since retired and moved out of the area.

Every city will be different, but that's the only case I can relate to.

Small businesses in homes are allowed. I know of a beauty salon that is licensed to do business in a home in Beaconsdale in midtown Newport News. In fact, when I lived there and complained to the city about it, I was told that businesses in homes was permitted as long as there was no advertising the business on the premises, and there was no build-up of customers at the business. Indeed, Newport News' ordinance is similar to York County's ordinance. The Dare Gun Room in York County is/was a well-known parts installer/supplier for 1911 pistols and operated out of a home. Also, think about all the nail and hair salons that work out of homes in Newport News in the east end.