The Home Office Scheme in Singapore allows certain categories of businesses to operate from residential premises. It is administered by the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) and is designed to support entrepreneurship, flexibility in working arrangements, and the utilization of residential spaces for small-scale businesses.
Key features of the Home Office Scheme in Singapore include:
Eligibility: To be eligible for the Home Office Scheme, businesses must meet specific criteria set by the URA. Generally, eligible businesses are small-scale, low-impact, and non-pollutive. Examples of eligible businesses may include freelance consultancy services, IT services, design services, and administrative support services.
Approval Process: Business owners must apply for approval from the URA to operate their businesses from their residential premises under the Home Office Scheme. The application process typically involves submitting detailed information about the nature of the business, its operations, and its impact on the residential environment.
Conditions and Guidelines: Approved businesses must adhere to certain conditions and guidelines outlined by the URA. These may include restrictions on the number of non-resident employees, limitations on the use of signage, compliance with zoning regulations, and measures to minimize disturbances to neighbours.
Renewal: Approval under the Home Office Scheme is typically granted for a specified period, after which business owners may need to renew their approval with the URA. Renewal may be subject to review and reassessment of the business’s compliance with the scheme’s conditions and guidelines.
Exclusions: Certain types of businesses are generally not eligible for the Home Office Scheme. These may include businesses with high visitor traffic, businesses involving retail sales, food and beverage establishments, and businesses that generate noise, odour, or other nuisances that may disrupt the residential environment.