Military personnel, DOD civilian employees and their family members can operate home-based businesses (HBBs), and other commercial solicitation to provide goods and services to other U.S. forces members and affiliates.

 Family members stationed in Europe may want to work out of their home and try their hand at starting a business in or out of their government quarters.

 Examples of supported businesses and services are tutoring, singing and dancing lessons, photography, crafts, some cosmetic services, accounting and tax services, word processing and similar enterprises. In addition, multi-level sales activities (i.e. Avon, Tupperware and Mary Kay) are typical HBB activities. Private organization fundraising activities are not considered HBBs.

 Services involving hair styling, cutting and coloring; baking and food preparation; children; and party activities are heavily regulated by German law. Individuals interested in operating an HBB related to these activities must comply with host nation and local laws regarding licensure and work permits. Business owners may also be subject to host nation taxes and fees.

 All HBB owners, regardless of business or location, are subject to in-person sanitation reviews conducted by the Army and the German government.

 DOD-sponsored personnel who operate unauthorized HBBs or violate Army regulation may be face disciplinary action, loss of individual logistic support, denial of access to Army installations in Europe and removal from housing. To report unauthorized businesses or commercial activities, contact the Customs Office at DSN 314-468-7842, CIV 0981-183-7842.

 If you have any questions, please contact Army Community Service (ACS) at DSN 314-467-2883/2146, CIV 09802-83-2883/2146.

 

PROCEDURES TO REQUEST AN HBB:

  • STEP 1: Know your business. Review the On-Post Commercial Solicitation Regulation (AER 210-70) and develop a business plan to present to the ASD. Pick up a hardcopy packet outside the ACS Office located at Katterbach Kaserne, Bldg. 5817, or contact ACS for digital application. Follow the instructions listed on the Steps for the Applicant Handout. 
  • STEP 2: Make an appointment with the ACS. Your application will be reviewed for completeness and you will be assisted with the process. 
  • STEP 3: Submit the application.  The review process can take up to 60 days. ACS will send the packet through the DFMWR to the Garrison Commander (GC) for approval.
  • STEP 4: You will be contacted once your HHB is approved by the GC and you will be given the final approval memo, authorizing operation of the HBB or commercial solicitation.
  • STEP 5: Renewal. The HBB or commercial solicitation must be approved every 2 years or the date indicated in the authorization packet.