Opinion Favors Home Writers

Home-based writers and artists whose work does not impact traffic or other activities in their neighborhoods do not have to register for a business permit under the city’s controversial Home Occupation Ordinance, Los Angeles City Atty. James K. Hahn said Friday.

In a written opinion to Councilwoman Laura Chick and Councilman Michael Feuer, Hahn said writers and artists would only be required to register with the city if they entertained clients, received an unusual amount of mail delivery, had employees or conducted other activities that impact the neighborhood.

Hahn’s opinion came three days after the Writers Guild of America filed a federal lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of the city’s Home Occupation Ordinance. The law went into effect in March.

The ordinance appeared to require that writers working at home register with the city and pay a $25 annual fee for a permit. Additionally, writers and artists would be required to pay a business tax, an obscure requirement that has actually been on the books, but not enforced, since the 1920s.

Writers and artists have asked to be exempted from the registration requirement and the business tax.