Newport Beach Municipal Code § 20.20.030 Commercial Zoning

§ 20.20.010. Purposes of Commercial Zoning Districts.¶

The purposes of the individual commercial zoning districts and the manner in which they are applied are as follows:

A. OA (Office—Airport) Zoning District. The OA Zoning District is intended to provide for areas appropriate for the development of properties adjoining the John Wayne Airport for uses that support or benefit from airport operations. These may include corporate and professional offices; automobile sales, rental, and service; aviation sales and service; hotels; and accessory retail, restaurant, and service uses.

B. OG (Office—General) Zoning District. The OG Zoning District is intended to provide for areas appropriate for administrative, professional, and medical offices with limited accessory retail and service uses.

C. OM (Office—Medical) Zoning District. The OM Zoning District is intended to provide for areas appropriate primarily for medical-related offices, other professional offices, retail, short-term convalescent and long-term care facilities, research labs, and similar uses.

D. OR (Office—Regional) Zoning District. The OR Zoning District is intended to provide for areas appropriate for corporate offices, administrative and professional offices that serve local and regional markets, with limited accessory financial, retail, service, and entertainment uses.

E. CC (Commercial Corridor) Zoning District. The CC Zoning District is intended to provide for areas appropriate for a range of neighborhood-serving retail and service uses along street frontages that are located and designed to foster pedestrian activity.

F. CG (Commercial General) Zoning District. The CG Zoning District is intended to provide for areas appropriate for a wide variety of commercial activities oriented primarily to serve Citywide or regional needs.

G. CM (Commercial Recreational and Marine) Zoning District. The CM Zoning District is intended to provide for areas appropriate for commercial development on or near the waterfront that will encourage the continuation of coastal-dependent and coastal-related uses, maintain the marine theme and character, encourage mutually supportive businesses, encourage visitor-serving and recreational uses, and encourage physical and visual access to the bay on sites located on or near the bay.

H. CN (Commercial Neighborhood) Zoning District. The CN Zoning District is intended to provide for areas appropriate for a limited range of retail and service uses developed in one or more distinct centers oriented to serve primarily the needs of and maintain compatibility with residential uses in the immediate area.

I. CV (Commercial Visitor-Serving) Zoning District. The CV Zoning District is intended to provide for areas appropriate for accommodations, goods, and services intended to serve primarily visitors to the City.

J. The CV-LV (Commercial Visitor-Serving—Lido Village) Zoning District. This district applies to the former City Hall complex located at the northeast corner of the intersection of Newport Boulevard and 32nd Street. The CV-LV designation provides for a range of accommodations (e.g., hotels, motels, hostels), goods, and services intended to primarily serve visitors to the City of Newport Beach and a fire station. Limited use overnight visitor accommodations and residential uses are not allowed.

(Ord. 2010-21 § 1 (Exh. A)(part), 2010; Ord. 2015-35 § 5, 2015)

Exceptions & meaning →

§ 20.20.020. Commercial Zoning Districts Land Uses and Permit Requirements.¶

A. Allowed Land Uses. Tables 2-4 and 2-5 indicate the uses allowed within each zoning district and the permit required to establish the use, if any, in compliance with Part 5 of this title (Planning Permit Procedures).

B. Prohibited Land Uses. Any table cell with “—” means that the listed land use is prohibited in that specific zoning district.

C. Applicable Regulations. The last column in the tables (“Specific Use Regulations”) may include a reference to additional regulations that apply to the use.

TABLE 2-4 ALLOWED USES AND PERMIT REQUIREMENTS	Commercial Office Zoning Districts Permit Requirements *	Commercial Office Zoning Districts Permit Requirements *	Commercial Office Zoning Districts Permit Requirements *	Commercial Office Zoning Districts Permit Requirements *	Commercial Office Zoning Districts Permit Requirements *
TABLE 2-4 ALLOWED USES AND PERMIT REQUIREMENTS	P CUP MUP LTP —	Permitted by Right Conditional Use Permit (Section 20.52.020 ) Minor Use Permit (Section 20.52.020 ) Limited Term Permit (Section 20.52.040 ) Not allowed *	Permitted by Right Conditional Use Permit (Section 20.52.020 ) Minor Use Permit (Section 20.52.020 ) Limited Term Permit (Section 20.52.040 ) Not allowed *	Permitted by Right Conditional Use Permit (Section 20.52.020 ) Minor Use Permit (Section 20.52.020 ) Limited Term Permit (Section 20.52.040 ) Not allowed *	Permitted by Right Conditional Use Permit (Section 20.52.020 ) Minor Use Permit (Section 20.52.020 ) Limited Term Permit (Section 20.52.040 ) Not allowed *
Land Use See Part 7 of this title for land use definitions. See Chapter 20.12 for unlisted uses.	OA	OG	OM	OR	Specific Use Regulations
Industry, Manufacturing and Processing, and Warehousing Uses
Handicraft Industry	P	—	—	—
Industry, Small (less than 5,000 sq. ft.)	MUP	—	—	—
Personal Storage (mini storage)	P	—	—	—
Research and Development, General	P	P	P	P
Research and Development, Restricted	MUP	MUP	MUP	MUP
Recreation, Education, and Public Assembly Uses
Assembly/Meeting Facilities
Small—5,000 sq. ft. or less (religious assembly may be larger than 5,000 sq. ft.)	CUP	CUP	CUP	CUP
Commercial Recreation and Entertainment	—	—	—	CUP
Cultural Institutions	P	—	—	P
Schools, Public and Private	CUP	CUP	—	CUP
Schools, Related to Medical Professions	MUP	MUP	MUP	MUP
Retail Trade Uses	Retail Trade Uses	Retail Trade Uses	Retail Trade Uses	Retail Trade Uses	Retail Trade Uses
Alcohol Sales (off-sale)	MUP	MUP	MUP	MUP	Section § 20.48.030
Alcohol Sales (off-sale), Accessory Only	P	MUP	MUP	P
Retail Sales (less than 10,000 sq. ft.) (4)	MUP	P	P	P
Retail Sales (10,000 sq. ft. or greater) (1)(4)	CUP	—	—	—
Pharmacy, Medical Supplies	P	P	P	P
Service Uses—Business, Financial, Medical, and Professional
ATM	P	P	P	P
Convalescent Facilities	—	—	P	—
Emergency Health Facilities/Urgent Care	P	P	P	P
Financial Institutions and Related Services	P	P	P	P
Hospitals	—	—	CUP	—
Offices—Business	P	P	P	P
Offices—Corporate	P	P	—	P
Offices—Medical and Dental	P	P	P	P
Offices—Professional	P	P	P	P
Outpatient Surgery Facility	P	P	P	P
Service Uses—General	Service Uses—General	Service Uses—General	Service Uses—General	Service Uses—General	Service Uses—General
Ambulance Services	P	—	P	—
Animal Sales and Services
Animal Boarding/Kennels	P	—	—	CUP	Section 20.48.050
Animal Grooming	P	MUP	—	MUP	Section 20.48.050
Veterinary Services	P	CUP	CUP	CUP	Section 20.48.050
Artists’ Studios	P	P	—	P
Catering Services	P	P	—	P
Day Care—General	MUP	MUP	MUP	MUP
Eating and Drinking Establishments
Accessory Food Service (open to public)	P	P	P	P	Section 20.48.090
Bars, Lounges, and Nightclubs	CUP	—	—	CUP	Section 20.48.090
Fast Food (no late hours) (1)(2)	P/MUP	P/MUP	—	—	Section 20.48.090
Fast Food (with late hours) (1)	MUP	MUP	—	—	Section 20.48.090
Food Service (no alcohol, no late hours) (1)(2)	P/MUP	P/MUP	P/MUP	P/MUP	Section 20.48.090
Food Service (no late hours) (1)	MUP	MUP	MUP	MUP	Section 20.48.090
Food Service (with late hours) (1)	CUP	CUP	CUP	CUP	Section 20.48.090
Take-Out Service—Fast-Casual (up to 20 seats) (1)(2)	P/MUP	P/MUP	P/MUP	P/MUP	Section 20.48.090
Alcohol Sales (off-sale) (with late hours) (1)	CUP	CUP	CUP	CUP	Section 20.48.030
Emergency Shelters	P	—	—	—	Section 20.48.100
Funeral Homes and Mortuaries, without crematorium	MUP	MUP	MUP	MUP
Funeral Homes and Mortuaries, with crematorium	CUP	CUP	CUP	CUP
Health/Fitness Facilities
Small—2,000 sq. ft. or less	P	P	P	P
Large—Over 2,000 sq. ft.	MUP	MUP	MUP	MUP
Laboratories	P	P	P	P
Maintenance and Repair Services	P	P	—	P
Massage Establishments	MUP	MUP	MUP	MUP	Chapter 5.50 Section 20.48.120
Massage Services, Accessory	MUP	MUP	MUP	MUP	Section 20.48.120
Personal Services, General	P	P	P	P
Personal Services, Restricted	MUP	MUP	MUP	MUP
Postal Services	P	P	P	P
Printing and Duplicating Services	P	P	P	P
Smoking Lounges	—	—	—	—
Tattoo Establishments	—	P	—	P	Section 20.48.230
Visitor Accommodations, Nonresidential
Hotels, Motels, and Time Shares	CUP	—	CUP	—
SRO Residential Hotel	CUP	CUP	CUP	CUP
Transportation, Communications, and Infrastructure Uses
Communication Facilities	P	P	—	P
Heliports and Helistops (3)	CUP	—	CUP	CUP
Parking Facilities	MUP	MUP	MUP	MUP
Parking Structures, adjacent to residential district	—	CUP	CUP	—
Utilities, Minor	P	P	P	P
Utilities, Major	CUP	CUP	CUP	CUP
Wireless Telecommunication Facilities	CUP/MUP/LTP	CUP/MUP/LTP	CUP/MUP/LTP	CUP/MUP/LTP	Chapter 20.49
Vehicle Rental, Sale, and Service Uses	Vehicle Rental, Sale, and Service Uses	Vehicle Rental, Sale, and Service Uses	Vehicle Rental, Sale, and Service Uses	Vehicle Rental, Sale, and Service Uses	Vehicle Rental, Sale, and Service Uses
Vehicle Sales, Office Only	P	P	—	P
Vehicle/Equipment Rentals
Office Only	P	P	—	P
Vehicles for Hire	CUP	—	—	—
Vehicle/Equipment Rentals and Sales	CUP	—	—	—
Vehicle/Equipment Repair
General	CUP	—	—	—
Limited	MUP	—	—	—
Vehicle/Equipment Services
Automobile Washing/Detailing, self-service or accessory	MUP	MUP	—	MUP
Service Stations	CUP	—	—	—	Section 20.48.210
Other Uses	Other Uses	Other Uses	Other Uses	Other Uses	Other Uses
Accessory Structures and Uses	P	P	P	P
Cigar Lounges (5)	P	—	—	P
Drive-Through Facilities	MUP	MUP	MUP	MUP	Section 20.48.080
Outdoor Storage and Display	P	P	P	P	Section 20.48.140
Special Events	Chapter 11.03	Chapter 11.03	Chapter 11.03	Chapter 11.03	Chapter 11.03
Temporary Uses	LTP	LTP	LTP	LTP	Section 20.52.040

Notes:

*	Uses Not Listed. Land uses that are not listed in the table above, or are not shown in a particular zoning district are not allowed, except as otherwise provided by Section § 20.12.020 (Rules of Interpretation).
(1)	Late Hours. Facilities with late hours shall mean facilities that offer service and are open to the public past 11:00 p.m. any day of the week.
(2)	Permitted or Minor Use Permit Required.
a.	For take-out service – fast casual (up to 20 seats), a minor use permit shall be required for any use located within 100 feet of any residential zoning district.
b.	Except as provided in (2)(a), a minor use permit shall be required for any use located within 500 feet of any residential zoning district.
c.	A minor use permit shall be required for any use that maintains late hours.
(3)	Applicants for City approval of a heliport or helistop shall provide evidence that the proposed heliport or helistop complies fully with State of California permit procedures and with all conditions of approval imposed by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the Airport Land Use Commission for Orange County (ALUC), and by the Caltrans Division of Aeronautics.
(4)	Tobacco Retail Businesses are subject to the standards of Chapter 5. 55 ( Tobacco Retailer Businesses) including but not limited to the distance requirements contained therein.
(5)	Cigar lounges are only permitted in the OA and OR Zoning District when located in a private room within, or attached to, a premium cigar retail sale establishment. A cigar lounge shall be restricted to persons aged 21 years of age or older. Cigar lounges shall be fire sprinklered and comply with all Building and Fire Codes. A cigar lounge shall provide adequate ventilation. A cigar lounge shall not be located within 1,000 feet of another cigar lounge.

TABLE 2-5 ALLOWED USES AND PERMIT REQUIREMENTS	Commercial Retail Zoning Districts Permit Requirements *	Commercial Retail Zoning Districts Permit Requirements *	Commercial Retail Zoning Districts Permit Requirements *	Commercial Retail Zoning Districts Permit Requirements *	Commercial Retail Zoning Districts Permit Requirements *	Commercial Retail Zoning Districts Permit Requirements *	Commercial Retail Zoning Districts Permit Requirements *
TABLE 2-5 ALLOWED USES AND PERMIT REQUIREMENTS	P CUP MUP LTP —	Permitted by Right Conditional Use Permit (Section 20.52.020 ) Minor Use Permit (Section 20.52.020 ) Limited Term Permit (Section 20.52.040 ) Not allowed *	Permitted by Right Conditional Use Permit (Section 20.52.020 ) Minor Use Permit (Section 20.52.020 ) Limited Term Permit (Section 20.52.040 ) Not allowed *	Permitted by Right Conditional Use Permit (Section 20.52.020 ) Minor Use Permit (Section 20.52.020 ) Limited Term Permit (Section 20.52.040 ) Not allowed *	Permitted by Right Conditional Use Permit (Section 20.52.020 ) Minor Use Permit (Section 20.52.020 ) Limited Term Permit (Section 20.52.040 ) Not allowed *	Permitted by Right Conditional Use Permit (Section 20.52.020 ) Minor Use Permit (Section 20.52.020 ) Limited Term Permit (Section 20.52.040 ) Not allowed *	Permitted by Right Conditional Use Permit (Section 20.52.020 ) Minor Use Permit (Section 20.52.020 ) Limited Term Permit (Section 20.52.040 ) Not allowed *
Land Use See Part 7 of this title for land use definitions. See Chapter 20.12 for unlisted uses.	CC	CG	CM	CN	CV	CV-LV	Specific Use Regulations
Industry, Manufacturing and Processing, and Warehousing Uses
Handicraft Industry	P	P	P	P	P	P
Recreation, Education, and Public Assembly Uses
Assembly/Meeting Facilities	CUP	CUP	CUP	CUP	CUP	CUP
Commercial Recreation and Entertainment	CUP	CUP	CUP	CUP	CUP	CUP
Cultural Institutions	P	P	MUP	—	P	—
Schools, Public and Private	—	CUP	CUP	CUP	CUP	—
Retail Trade Uses	Retail Trade Uses	Retail Trade Uses	Retail Trade Uses	Retail Trade Uses	Retail Trade Uses	Retail Trade Uses	Retail Trade Uses
Alcohol Sales (off-sale)	MUP	MUP	MUP	MUP	MUP	MUP	Section 20.48.030
Alcohol Sales (off-sale), Accessory Only	P	P	P	P	P	P
Bulk Merchandise	—	P	—	P	—	—
Marine Rentals and Sales
Boat Rentals and Sales	—	CUP	CUP	—	CUP	P
Marine Retail Sales	P	P	P	—	P	P
Retail Sales (3)	P	P	P	P	—	—
Visitor-Serving Retail	P	—	—	—	P	P
Service Uses—Business, Financial, Medical, and Professional
ATM	P	P	P	P	P	P
Emergency Health Facility/Urgent Care (above 1st floor only)	MUP	MUP	—	—	MUP	—
Financial Institutions and Related Services	P	P	—	P	P	P
Offices—Corporate (above 1st floor only)	P	P	P	P	—	—
Offices—Business	P	P	P	P	P	P
Offices—Medical and Dental	P	P	—	P	P	—
Offices—Professional (above 1st floor only)	P	P	P	P	P	—
Outpatient Surgery Facility (above 1st floor only)	MUP	MUP	P	—	—	—
Service Uses—General	Service Uses—General	Service Uses—General	Service Uses—General	Service Uses—General	Service Uses—General	Service Uses—General	Service Uses—General
Ambulance Services	—	MUP	—	—	—	—
Animal Sales and Services
Animal Boarding/Kennels	CUP	CUP	—	CUP	—	—	Section 20.48.050
Animal Grooming	P	P	—	P	P	—	Section 20.48.050
Animal Retail Sales	P	P	—	P	P	—	Section 20.48.050
Veterinary Services	CUP	CUP	—	CUP	—	—	Section 20.48.050
Artists’ Studios	P	P	P	P	P	P
Catering Services	—	P	P	P	P	—
Day Care, General	MUP	MUP	—	MUP	MUP	—
Eating and Drinking Establishments
Accessory Food Service (open to public)	P	P	P	P	P	P	Section 20.48.090
Bars, Lounges, and Nightclubs	CUP	CUP	CUP	CUP	CUP	—	Section 20.48.090
Fast Food (no late hours) (1)(2)	P/MUP	P/MUP	P/MUP	P/MUP	P/MUP	P/MUP	Section 20.48.090
Fast Food (with late hours) (1)	MUP	MUP	MUP	MUP	MUP	MUP	Section 20.48.090
Food Service (no alcohol, no late hours) (1)(2)	P/MUP	P/MUP	P/MUP	P/MUP	P/MUP	P/MUP	Section 20.48.090
Food Service (no late hours) (1)	MUP	MUP	MUP	MUP	MUP	MUP	Section 20.48.090
Food Service (with late hours) (1)	CUP	CUP	CUP	CUP	CUP	CUP	Section 20.48.090
Take-Out Service—Fast-Casual (up to 20 seats) (1)(2)	P/MUP	P/MUP	P/MUP	P/MUP	P/MUP	P/MUP	Section 20.48.090
Alcohol Sales (off-sale) (with late hours) (1)	CUP	CUP	CUP	CUP	CUP	CUP	Section 20.48.030
Funeral Homes and Mortuaries, without crematorium	—	MUP	—	—	—	—
Funeral Homes and Mortuaries, with crematorium	—	CUP	—	—	—	—
Health/Fitness Facilities
Small—2,000 sq. ft. or less	P	P	P	P	P	P
Large—Over 2,000 sq. ft.	MUP	MUP	MUP	MUP	MUP	—
Laboratories	—	P	—	—	—	—
Maintenance and Repair Services	P	P	—	P	—	—
Marine Services
Boat Storage	—	—	CUP	—	—	—
Boat Yards	—	—	CUP	—	—	—
Entertainment and Excursion Services	—	—	P	—	P	P	Title 17
Marine Service Stations	—	—	CUP	—	CUP	—
Water Transportation Services	—	—	MUP	—	MUP	—
Massage Establishments	MUP	MUP	—	MUP	MUP	MUP	Chapter 5.50 Section 20.48.120
Massage Services, Accessory	MUP	MUP	—	MUP	MUP	MUP	Section 20.48.120
Nail Salons	P	P	—	P	P	P
Personal Services, General	P	P	—	P	P	P
Personal Services, Restricted	MUP	MUP	—	MUP	MUP	—
Studio	P	P	—	P	P	—
Postal Services	P	P	—	P	P	—
Printing and Duplicating Services	P	P	—	P	—	—
Recycling Facilities
Collection Facility—Small	MUP	MUP	—	MUP	—	—	Section 20.48.160
Smoking Lounges	—	—	—	—	—	—
Tattoo Establishments	—	P	—	—	—	—	Section 20.48.230
Visitor Accommodations
Bed and Breakfast Inns	MUP	MUP	MUP	—	MUP	CUP	Section 20.48.060
Hotels and Motels	CUP	CUP	CUP	—	CUP	CUP
RV Parks	—	—	—	—	CUP	—
Time Shares	—	CUP	—	—	CUP	—	Section 20.48.220
SRO Residential Hotel	CUP	CUP	CUP	CUP	CUP	—
Transportation, Communications, and Infrastructure Uses
Communication Facilities	MUP	P	MUP	—	P	P
Marinas	Title 17	Title 17	Title 17	Title 17	Title 17	Title 17	Title 17
Marina Support Facilities	—	—	MUP	—	MUP	—
Parking Facilities	MUP	MUP	MUP	MUP	MUP	MUP
Parking Structure, adjacent to residential zoning district	CUP	CUP	—	CUP	CUP	CUP
Utilities, Minor	P	P	P	P	P	P
Utilities, Major	CUP	CUP	CUP	CUP	CUP	CUP
Wireless Telecommunication Facilities	CUP/MUP/ LTP	CUP/MUP/ LTP	CUP/MUP/ LTP	CUP/MUP/ LTP	CUP/MUP/ LTP	CUP/MUP/ LTP	Chapter 20.49
Vehicle Rental, Sale, and Service Uses	Vehicle Rental, Sale, and Service Uses	Vehicle Rental, Sale, and Service Uses	Vehicle Rental, Sale, and Service Uses	Vehicle Rental, Sale, and Service Uses	Vehicle Rental, Sale, and Service Uses	Vehicle Rental, Sale, and Service Uses	Vehicle Rental, Sale, and Service Uses
Vehicle/Equipment Rentals
General	—	CUP	—	—	CUP	—
Office Only	P	P	P	P	P	—
Limited	P	P	P	—	P	—
Vehicles for Hire	—	CUP	—	—	CUP	—
Vehicle/Equipment Repair
General	—	CUP	—	—	—	—
Limited	MUP	MUP	MUP	—	—	—
Vehicle/Equipment Sales
General	—	CUP	—	—	—	—
Office Only	P	P	P	P	P	—
Limited	—	P	—	—	—	—
Vehicle/Equipment Services
Automobile Washing/Detailing, full service	—	MUP	—	MUP	MUP	—
Automobile Washing/Detailing, self-service or accessory	P	P	—	P	MUP	—
Service Stations	CUP	CUP	—	CUP	CUP	—	Section 20.48.210
Other Uses	Other Uses	Other Uses	Other Uses	Other Uses	Other Uses	Other Uses	Other Uses
Accessory Structures and Uses	P	P	P	P	P	P
Drive-Through Facilities	MUP	MUP	MUP	MUP	MUP	—	Section 20.48.080
Special Events	Chapter 11.03	Chapter 11.03	Chapter 11.03	Chapter 11.03	Chapter 11.03	Chapter 11.03	Chapter 11.03
Outdoor Storage and Display	P	P	P	P	P	MUP	Section 20.48.140
Temporary Uses	LTP	LTP	LTP	LTP	LTP	LTP	Section 20.52.040

Notes:

*	Uses Not Listed. Land uses that are not listed in the table above, or are not shown in a particular zoning district, are not allowed, except as otherwise provided by Section § 20.12.020 (Rules of Interpretation).
(1)	Late Hours. Facilities with late hours shall mean facilities that offer service and are open to the public past 11:00 p.m. any day of the week.
(2)	Permitted or Minor Use Permit Required.
a.	For take-out service – fast casual (up to 20 seats), a minor use permit shall be required for any use located within 100 feet of any residential zoning district.
b.	Except as provided in (2)(a), a minor use permit shall be required for any use located within 500 feet of any residential zoning district.
c.	A minor use permit shall be required for any use that maintains late hours.
(3)	Tobacco retail businesses are subject to the standards of Chapter 5.55 (Tobacco Retailer Businesses) including but not limited to the distance requirements contained therein.

(Ord. 2010-21 § 1 (Exh. A)(part), 2010; Ord. 2013-4 §§ 1, 2, 2013; Ord. 2014-1 §§ 3, 4, 2014; Ord. 2015-15 § 1, 2015; Ord. 2015-35 § 6 (Exh. C), 2015; Ord. 2021-27 § 1 (Exh. A § 1), 2021; Ord. 2023-4 § 1 (Exh. W § 1), 2023; Ord. 2023-6 § 1 (Exh. A), 2023; Ord. 2023-22 §§ 895—898, 2023; Ord. 2026-6, 6/9/2026)

Exceptions & meaning →

§ 20.20.030. Commercial Zoning Districts General Development Standards.¶

New land uses and structures, and alterations to existing land uses and structures, shall be designed, constructed, and/or established in compliance with the requirements in Table 2-6 and Table 2-7, in addition to the development standards in Part 3 of this title (Site Planning and Development Standards).

TABLE 2-6 DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL OFFICE ZONING DISTRICTS

Development Feature	OA	OG	OM	OR	Additional Requirements
Lot Dimensions	Minimum dimensions required for each newly created lot	Minimum dimensions required for each newly created lot	Minimum dimensions required for each newly created lot	Minimum dimensions required for each newly created lot	Minimum dimensions required for each newly created lot
Lot Area (1)	25,000 sq. ft.	5,000 sq. ft.	25,000 sq. ft.	10,000 sq. ft.
Lot Width	100 ft.	50 ft.	100 ft.	100 ft.
Setbacks	The distances below are minimum setbacks required for primary structures. See Section 20.30.110 (Setback Regulations and Exceptions) for setback measurement, allowed projections into setbacks, and exceptions.	The distances below are minimum setbacks required for primary structures. See Section 20.30.110 (Setback Regulations and Exceptions) for setback measurement, allowed projections into setbacks, and exceptions.	The distances below are minimum setbacks required for primary structures. See Section 20.30.110 (Setback Regulations and Exceptions) for setback measurement, allowed projections into setbacks, and exceptions.	The distances below are minimum setbacks required for primary structures. See Section 20.30.110 (Setback Regulations and Exceptions) for setback measurement, allowed projections into setbacks, and exceptions.	The distances below are minimum setbacks required for primary structures. See Section 20.30.110 (Setback Regulations and Exceptions) for setback measurement, allowed projections into setbacks, and exceptions.
Front or adjacent to a street	15 ft	N/A	15 ft.	15 ft.
Lots fronting on Old Newport Blvd. or Westminster Ave.	N/A	0	N/A	N/A
Side (interior, each)
Abutting nonresidential	0	0	0	0
Abutting residential	N/A	5 ft.	5 ft.	N/A
Side (Street side)	15 ft.	15 ft.	15 ft.	15 ft.
Lots fronting on Old Newport Blvd. or Westminster Ave.	N/A	0	N/A	N/A
Rear	0	0	0	0
Abutting alley	N/A	5 ft.	N/A	N/A
Abutting residential	N/A	5 ft.	5 ft.	N/A
Floor Area Ratio	0.5 for office uses. 0.75 for warehouse uses.	As identified on the Official Zoning Map.	0.75, except as identified on the Official Zoning Map.	As identified on the Official Zoning Map.
Height	Maximum allowable height of structures without discretionary approval. See Section 20.30.060 (Height Limits and Exceptions) for height measurement requirements. See Section 20.30.060(C) (Increase in Height Limit) for possible increase in height limit.	Maximum allowable height of structures without discretionary approval. See Section 20.30.060 (Height Limits and Exceptions) for height measurement requirements. See Section 20.30.060(C) (Increase in Height Limit) for possible increase in height limit.	Maximum allowable height of structures without discretionary approval. See Section 20.30.060 (Height Limits and Exceptions) for height measurement requirements. See Section 20.30.060(C) (Increase in Height Limit) for possible increase in height limit.	Maximum allowable height of structures without discretionary approval. See Section 20.30.060 (Height Limits and Exceptions) for height measurement requirements. See Section 20.30.060(C) (Increase in Height Limit) for possible increase in height limit.	Maximum allowable height of structures without discretionary approval. See Section 20.30.060 (Height Limits and Exceptions) for height measurement requirements. See Section 20.30.060(C) (Increase in Height Limit) for possible increase in height limit.
Within Shoreline Height Limit Zone	26 ft. with flat roof; less than 3/12 pitch 31 ft. with sloped roof; 3/12 or greater pitch	26 ft. with flat roof; less than 3/12 pitch 31 ft. with sloped roof; 3/12 or greater pitch	26 ft. with flat roof; less than 3/12 pitch 31 ft. with sloped roof; 3/12 or greater pitch	26 ft. with flat roof; less than 3/12 pitch 31 ft. with sloped roof; 3/12 or greater pitch	Section 20.30.060
Not within Shoreline Height Limit Zone	32 ft. with flat roof; less than 3/12 pitch 37 ft. with sloped roof; 3/12 or greater pitch	32 ft. with flat roof; less than 3/12 pitch 37 ft. with sloped roof; 3/12 or greater pitch	32 ft. with flat roof; less than 3/12 pitch 37 ft. with sloped roof; 3/12 or greater pitch	32 ft. with flat roof; less than 3/12 pitch 37 ft. with sloped roof; 3/12 or greater pitch	Section 20.30.060
Within High Rise Height Limit Zone (See Figure H-1, attached to the ordinance codified in this title).	300 ft.	300 ft.	300 ft.	300 ft.	Section 20.30.060
Fencing	See Section 20.30.040 (Fences, Hedges, Walls, and Retaining Walls).	See Section 20.30.040 (Fences, Hedges, Walls, and Retaining Walls).	See Section 20.30.040 (Fences, Hedges, Walls, and Retaining Walls).	See Section 20.30.040 (Fences, Hedges, Walls, and Retaining Walls).	See Section 20.30.040 (Fences, Hedges, Walls, and Retaining Walls).
Landscaping	See Chapter 20.36 (Landscaping Standards).	See Chapter 20.36 (Landscaping Standards).	See Chapter 20.36 (Landscaping Standards).	See Chapter 20.36 (Landscaping Standards).	See Chapter 20.36 (Landscaping Standards).
Lighting	See Section 20.30.070 (Outdoor Lighting).	See Section 20.30.070 (Outdoor Lighting).	See Section 20.30.070 (Outdoor Lighting).	See Section 20.30.070 (Outdoor Lighting).	See Section 20.30.070 (Outdoor Lighting).
Outdoor Storage/Display	See Section 20.48.140 (Outdoor Storage, Display, and Activities).	See Section 20.48.140 (Outdoor Storage, Display, and Activities).	See Section 20.48.140 (Outdoor Storage, Display, and Activities).	See Section 20.48.140 (Outdoor Storage, Display, and Activities).	See Section 20.48.140 (Outdoor Storage, Display, and Activities).
Parking	See Chapter 20.40 (Off-Street Parking).	See Chapter 20.40 (Off-Street Parking).	See Chapter 20.40 (Off-Street Parking).	See Chapter 20.40 (Off-Street Parking).	See Chapter 20.40 (Off-Street Parking).
Signs	See Chapter 20.42 (Sign Standards).	See Chapter 20.42 (Sign Standards).	See Chapter 20.42 (Sign Standards).	See Chapter 20.42 (Sign Standards).	See Chapter 20.42 (Sign Standards).

Notes:

(1)	All development and the subdivision of land shall comply with the requirements of Municipal Code Title 19 (Subdivisions).

TABLE 2-7 DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL RETAIL ZONING DISTRICTS

Development Feature	CC	CG	CM	CN	CV	CV-LV	Additional Require-ments
Lot Dimensions	Minimum dimensions required for each newly created lot	Minimum dimensions required for each newly created lot	Minimum dimensions required for each newly created lot	Minimum dimensions required for each newly created lot	Minimum dimensions required for each newly created lot	Minimum dimensions required for each newly created lot	Minimum dimensions required for each newly created lot
Lot Area (1) Lot Width	5,000 sq. ft. 25 ft.	10,000 sq. ft. 50 ft.	N/A N/A	20,000 sq. ft 100 ft.	N/A N/A	10,000 sq. ft. 50 ft.
Setbacks	Minimum setbacks required for primary structures. See Section 20.30.110(D) (Allowed Encroachments into Setback Areas) for setback measurement, allowed projections into setbacks, and exceptions.	Minimum setbacks required for primary structures. See Section 20.30.110(D) (Allowed Encroachments into Setback Areas) for setback measurement, allowed projections into setbacks, and exceptions.	Minimum setbacks required for primary structures. See Section 20.30.110(D) (Allowed Encroachments into Setback Areas) for setback measurement, allowed projections into setbacks, and exceptions.	Minimum setbacks required for primary structures. See Section 20.30.110(D) (Allowed Encroachments into Setback Areas) for setback measurement, allowed projections into setbacks, and exceptions.	Minimum setbacks required for primary structures. See Section 20.30.110(D) (Allowed Encroachments into Setback Areas) for setback measurement, allowed projections into setbacks, and exceptions.	Minimum setbacks required for primary structures. See Section 20.30.110(D) (Allowed Encroachments into Setback Areas) for setback measurement, allowed projections into setbacks, and exceptions.	Minimum setbacks required for primary structures. See Section 20.30.110(D) (Allowed Encroachments into Setback Areas) for setback measurement, allowed projections into setbacks, and exceptions.
Front	0	0	0	0	0	Newport Blvd: 1 ft. for below grade structures; 20 ft. for structures up to 35 ft. in height; 60 ft. for structures over 35 ft. in height
Side (interior, each):
Abutting nonresidential	0	0	0	0	0	1 ft. for below grade structures; 5 ft. for above grade structures
Abutting residential	5 ft.	5 ft.	5 ft.	5 ft.	5 ft.	5 ft.
Side (Street side)	0	0	0	0	0	32nd Street: 1 ft. for below grade structures; 1 ft. for structures up to 35 ft. in height; 70 ft. for structures over 35 ft. in height Via Oporto: 0
Rear:
Abutting an alley	10 ft.	10 ft.	10 ft.	10 ft.	10 ft.	5 ft.
Not abutting an alley	0	0	0	0	0	0
Abutting residential	5 ft.	5 ft.	5 ft.	5 ft.	5 ft.	5 ft.
Open Space	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	20%
Bulkhead Setback	Structures shall be set back a minimum of 10 ft. from the bulkhead in each zoning district.	Structures shall be set back a minimum of 10 ft. from the bulkhead in each zoning district.	Structures shall be set back a minimum of 10 ft. from the bulkhead in each zoning district.	Structures shall be set back a minimum of 10 ft. from the bulkhead in each zoning district.	Structures shall be set back a minimum of 10 ft. from the bulkhead in each zoning district.	Structures shall be set back a minimum of 10 ft. from the bulkhead in each zoning district.	Structures shall be set back a minimum of 10 ft. from the bulkhead in each zoning district.
Floor Area Ratio (2) (3)	The specific floor area limitations for each zoning district are identified on the Zoning Map.	The specific floor area limitations for each zoning district are identified on the Zoning Map.	The specific floor area limitations for each zoning district are identified on the Zoning Map.	The specific floor area limitations for each zoning district are identified on the Zoning Map.	The specific floor area limitations for each zoning district are identified on the Zoning Map.	The specific floor area limitations for each zoning district are identified on the Zoning Map.	The specific floor area limitations for each zoning district are identified on the Zoning Map.
Height	Maximum allowable height of structures without discretionary approval. See Section 20.30.060 (Height Limits and Exceptions) for height measurement requirements. See Section 20.30.060(C) (Increase in Height Limit) for possible increase in height limit.	Maximum allowable height of structures without discretionary approval. See Section 20.30.060 (Height Limits and Exceptions) for height measurement requirements. See Section 20.30.060(C) (Increase in Height Limit) for possible increase in height limit.	Maximum allowable height of structures without discretionary approval. See Section 20.30.060 (Height Limits and Exceptions) for height measurement requirements. See Section 20.30.060(C) (Increase in Height Limit) for possible increase in height limit.	Maximum allowable height of structures without discretionary approval. See Section 20.30.060 (Height Limits and Exceptions) for height measurement requirements. See Section 20.30.060(C) (Increase in Height Limit) for possible increase in height limit.	Maximum allowable height of structures without discretionary approval. See Section 20.30.060 (Height Limits and Exceptions) for height measurement requirements. See Section 20.30.060(C) (Increase in Height Limit) for possible increase in height limit.	Maximum allowable height of structures without discretionary approval. See Section 20.30.060 (Height Limits and Exceptions) for height measurement requirements. See Section 20.30.060(C) (Increase in Height Limit) for possible increase in height limit.	Maximum allowable height of structures without discretionary approval. See Section 20.30.060 (Height Limits and Exceptions) for height measurement requirements. See Section 20.30.060(C) (Increase in Height Limit) for possible increase in height limit.
Within Shoreline Height Limit Zone	26 ft. with flat roof; less than 3/12 pitch 31 ft. with sloped roof; 3/12 or greater pitch	26 ft. with flat roof; less than 3/12 pitch 31 ft. with sloped roof; 3/12 or greater pitch	26 ft. with flat roof; less than 3/12 pitch 31 ft. with sloped roof; 3/12 or greater pitch	26 ft. with flat roof; less than 3/12 pitch 31 ft. with sloped roof; 3/12 or greater pitch	26 ft. with flat roof; less than 3/12 pitch 31 ft. with sloped roof; 3/12 or greater pitch	55 ft. with flat roof, less than 3/12 roof pitch; 60 ft. with sloped roof, 3/12 roof pitch or greater (4)	20.30.060 See CLUP Policy 4.4.2-1
Not within Shoreline Height Limit Zone	32 ft. with flat roof; less than 3/12 pitch 37 ft. with sloped roof; 3/12 or greater pitch	32 ft. with flat roof; less than 3/12 pitch 37 ft. with sloped roof; 3/12 or greater pitch	32 ft. with flat roof; less than 3/12 pitch 37 ft. with sloped roof; 3/12 or greater pitch	32 ft. with flat roof; less than 3/12 pitch 37 ft. with sloped roof; 3/12 or greater pitch	32 ft. with flat roof; less than 3/12 pitch 37 ft. with sloped roof; 3/12 or greater pitch	N/A	20.30.060 See CLUP Policy 4.4.2-1
Within High Rise Height Area (See Figure H-1, attached to the ordinance codified in this title).	300	300	300	300	300	N/A	20.30.060 See CLUP Policy 4.4.2-1
Fencing	See Section 20.30.040 (Fences, Hedges, Walls, and Retaining Walls).	See Section 20.30.040 (Fences, Hedges, Walls, and Retaining Walls).	See Section 20.30.040 (Fences, Hedges, Walls, and Retaining Walls).	See Section 20.30.040 (Fences, Hedges, Walls, and Retaining Walls).	See Section 20.30.040 (Fences, Hedges, Walls, and Retaining Walls).	See Section 20.30.040 (Fences, Hedges, Walls, and Retaining Walls).	See Section 20.30.040 (Fences, Hedges, Walls, and Retaining Walls).
Landscaping	See Chapter 20.36 (Landscaping Standards).	See Chapter 20.36 (Landscaping Standards).	See Chapter 20.36 (Landscaping Standards).	See Chapter 20.36 (Landscaping Standards).	See Chapter 20.36 (Landscaping Standards).	See Chapter 20.36 (Landscaping Standards).	See Chapter 20.36 (Landscaping Standards).
Lighting	See Section 20.30.070 (Outdoor Lighting).	See Section 20.30.070 (Outdoor Lighting).	See Section 20.30.070 (Outdoor Lighting).	See Section 20.30.070 (Outdoor Lighting).	See Section 20.30.070 (Outdoor Lighting).	See Section 20.30.070 (Outdoor Lighting).	See Section 20.30.070 (Outdoor Lighting).
Outdoor Storage/Display	See Section 20.48.140 (Outdoor Storage, Display, and Activities).	See Section 20.48.140 (Outdoor Storage, Display, and Activities).	See Section 20.48.140 (Outdoor Storage, Display, and Activities).	See Section 20.48.140 (Outdoor Storage, Display, and Activities).	See Section 20.48.140 (Outdoor Storage, Display, and Activities).	See Section 20.48.140 (Outdoor Storage, Display, and Activities).	See Section 20.48.140 (Outdoor Storage, Display, and Activities).
Parking	See Chapter 20.40 (Off-Street Parking).	See Chapter 20.40 (Off-Street Parking).	See Chapter 20.40 (Off-Street Parking).	See Chapter 20.40 (Off-Street Parking).	See Chapter 20.40 (Off-Street Parking).	See Chapter 20.40 (Off-Street Parking).	See Chapter 20.40 (Off-Street Parking).
Signs	See Chapter 20.42 (Sign Standards).	See Chapter 20.42 (Sign Standards).	See Chapter 20.42 (Sign Standards).	See Chapter 20.42 (Sign Standards).	See Chapter 20.42 (Sign Standards).	See Chapter 20.42 (Sign Standards).	See Chapter 20.42 (Sign Standards).

Notes:

(1)	All development and the subdivision of land shall comply with the requirements of Title 19 (Subdivisions).
(2)	In the CG Zoning District, when 0.3/0.5 is shown on the Zoning Map, the FAR may be increased to a maximum of 0.5 when two or more legal lots are merged to accommodate larger commercial development projects in compliance with General Plan Policy LU 6.19.13 and Title 19 (Subdivisions).
(3)	Portions of legal lots that are submerged lands or tidelands shall be included in the land area of the lot for the purpose of calculating the allowable floor area for structures.
(4)	Architectural features such as domes, towers, cupolas, spires, and similar structures may be up to 65 feet in height.

(Ord. 2010-21 § 1 (Exh. A)(part), 2010; Ord. 2015-35 § 7 (Exh. D), 2015; Ord. 2022-22 § 3 (Exh. B), 2022)

Exceptions & meaning →

Newport Beach Municipal Code § 20.20.030 Commercial Zoning Districts General Development Standards

§ 20.20.010. Purposes of Commercial Zoning Districts.¶

§ 20.20.020. Commercial Zoning Districts Land Uses and Permit Requirements.¶

§ 20.20.030. Commercial Zoning Districts General Development Standards.¶

Explained in plain English