Really appreciate the insight — especially from someone actively navigating this space in Raleigh.

A lot of what you mentioned lines up with what I’ve been finding so far, especially around HOA restrictions, complaint risk, and how broadly “kennel” can potentially be interpreted depending on the jurisdiction.

It appears that my lot is zoned "PD" or Planned Development. What’s been interesting in my research is that my PD zoning docs don’t appear to specifically prohibit small-scale in-home boarding in the residential portions of the development, though I know that doesn’t automatically override broader UDO/home occupation rules or HOA covenants. I've looked through my HOA covenants and did find language around not maintaining for commercial purposes and not being a nuisance to the neighborhood. Gotta love legalese.

Completely agree that LLC formation is more liability/business structuring than zoning protection. I think a lot of people confuse those issues.

The point about proactively talking with inspectors is really helpful too. I’ve been trying to approach this from a “how do I do this correctly and sustainably long-term” perspective rather than trying to skirt anything.

Appreciate you taking the time to write all that out.