The EPA program, however, contains two significant limitations. First, credits under the program are only available in five areas at this time. This number will surely increase if the pilot effort is successful. Second, whether the program expands or not, local zoning rules often ban home offices. Such regulations were typically established long before the availability of the Internet, fax machines, and cell phones.
Fewer commuters mean less road use and thus reduced repairs, a major capital expense.
There are important social benefits, including the ability to spend more time with children. Given that computers and software used at home and at the office are largely identical, working from home does not automatically mean reduced productivity. In fact, given the commuting hours saved, it can be argued that teleworkers actually have a productivity advantage. Under its no impact rules you can have a home office without a zoning hearing or permit provided you have no non-resident employees, do not receive more than five vehicle visits per week, and the home is not material changed. But home-based businesses are not so hot when it comes to commercial office development.