SingaporeCan I operate a home business in my HDB flat?
Yes, you can operate a home business in your HDB flat, but only if it complies with HDB’s Home-Based Business Scheme and does not violate Housing and Development Act s. 56.
What the Law Says
The Housing and Development Act governs the use of HDB flats, including restrictions on commercial activity. Section 56 is the key provision that empowers HDB to regulate how flats may be used.
Under the Housing and Development Act, HDB has the authority to control the use of flats to ensure they remain primarily residential. While the Act itself does not list every permitted or prohibited activity, section 56 gives HDB the power to impose conditions on tenancy or ownership — including restrictions on running businesses from flats.
HDB’s official Home-Based Business Scheme (HBBS) sets out the specific conditions under which residents may operate small-scale businesses from their flats. These conditions are imposed under the authority granted by section 56 and are binding on all HDB flat owners and tenants.
To qualify, your home-based business must be non-intrusive: no more than 10 customers per day, no employees or hired staff, no external signage, no manufacturing or storage of hazardous materials, and no alteration to the flat’s structure for business use.
Statutory TextThe Board may, in such manner as it thinks fit, impose such conditions as it thinks fit upon any tenancy or licence of any premises vested in or managed by the Board.
— Housing and Development Act, s. 56 — Powers of the Board
What to Do
Check if your business type is allowed under HDB’s Home-Based Business Scheme (e.g., tuition, freelance writing, baking for sale).
Apply for HDB’s written approval before starting — submit via HDB’s e-Service portal.
Ensure your business meets all conditions: ≤10 daily customers, no staff, no signage, no noise or waste nuisance.
Renew approval every 2 years if continuing the business.
Comply with GST registration rules if annual turnover exceeds S$20,000.
Sources
Not legal advice. This article is general information based on publicly available sources, written for educational purposes. Laws change and individual situations vary. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction before acting on anything you read here. Last reviewed: 2026-06-08.