§131.0520 Use Regulations of Commercial Zones

The regulations of Section 131.0522 apply in the commercial zones where indicated in Table 131-05B.

• (a) The uses permitted in any commercial zone may be further limited by the following:

  • (1) Section 131.0540 (Maximum permitted residential density and other residential regulations);

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• (2) Use limitations applicable to the Airport Land Use Compatibility Overlay Zone (Chapter 13, Article 2, Division 15);

• (3) The presence of environmentally sensitive lands , pursuant to Chapter 14, Article 3, Division 1 (Environmentally Sensitive Lands Regulations); or

• (4) Any other applicable provision of the San Diego Municipal Code.

• (b) Within the commercial zones, no structure or improvement, or portion thereof, shall be constructed, established, or altered, nor shall any premises be used or maintained except for one or more of the purposes or activities listed in Table 131-05B. It is unlawful to establish, maintain, or use any premises for any purpose or activity not listed in this section or Section 131.0522.

• (c) All uses or activities permitted in the commercial zones shall be conducted entirely within an enclosed building unless the use or activity is traditionally conducted outdoors.

• (d) Accessory uses in the commercial zones may be permitted in accordance with Section 131.0125.

• (e) Temporary uses may be permitted in the commercial zones for a limited period of time with a Temporary Use Permit in accordance with Chapter 12, Article 3, Division 4.

• (f) For any use that cannot be readily classified, the City Manager shall determine the appropriate use category and use subcategory pursuant to Section 131.0110.

(Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.) (Amended 10-25-2011 by O-20047 N.S.; effective 1-1-2012.) (Amended 6-18-2013 by O-20261 N.S.; effective 7-19-2013.)

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 5 9

San Diego Municipal Code

Chapter 13: Zones

(3-2026)