Backyard or garage haunted house

Local families, teens and groups of friends looking for a Halloween night out, plus occasional school or community groups.

Paid admission per person, with extras such as fast-pass tickets, concessions like cider and popcorn, and photo spots. Most income comes in October weekends.

• Building sets and props
• Creative theming and storytelling
• Managing a small crew of volunteers or actors
• Crowd and queue control

• Zoning, home occupation rules and whether a temporary event permit is needed, check with your city or county
• Fire safety: exits, flammable decorations, fog machines and strobe lights, ask your local fire marshal what applies
• General liability insurance and whether your homeowner's policy covers paying visitors
• Neighbors, noise, parking and traffic
• Sales tax on admissions in some states, check with your state revenue department
• Rules for minors working as actors and for scaring young children

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $1,000 to $5,000, depending on your sets, props and effects. Monthly revenue is typically around $1,000 to $5,000, depending on how many visitors you attract during the Halloween season.

Check zoning, home occupation rules and whether a temporary event permit is needed with your city or county. Ask your local fire marshal about exits, decorations, fog machines and strobes. Also check insurance for paying visitors and sales tax on admissions.

Building sets and props, creative theming, managing a small crew of volunteers or actors, and crowd control all matter. Estimates suggest at least about 10 hours a week. Also plan for neighbors, noise, parking and rules for minors acting.