Chapter 13 — Zones

(Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.)

Article 1: Base Zones

(Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.)

Division 1: General Rules for Base Zones (Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.)

The purpose of this article is to establish base zones to help ensure that land uses within the City are properly located and that adequate space is provided for each type of development identified. Base zones are intended to regulate uses; to minimize the adverse impacts of these uses; to regulate the zone density and intensity; to regulate the size of buildings; and to classify, regulate, and address the relationships of uses of land and buildings.

(Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.)

On the effective date of Ordinance O-18691, (January 1, 2000) all zones that were established in Municipal Code Chapter 10, Article 1, Division 4 shall be amended and replaced with the base zones established in Chapter 13, Article 1, Divisions 1 through 6.

(Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.)

• (a) Base zones are represented on the Official Zoning Maps to be prepared by the City. The Official Zoning Maps shall be identified as an exhibit accompanying the ordinance that the City Council approves for any zoning or rezoning action. The Official Zoning Maps are the authority for identifying the boundary of any application of a base zone.

• (b) Where uncertainty exists with respect to the boundaries of zones shown on the Official Zoning Maps the following rules shall apply:

  • (1) Where a zone boundary follows a lot line, the lot line shall be the boundary.

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• (2) Where a zone boundary follows a public street , the centerline of the street shall be the boundary.

• (3) Where any unzoned public right-of-way is officially vacated or abandoned, the zone boundary applied to abutting property shall be the centerline of the vacated or abandoned public right - of - way .

• (4) Where a zone boundary divides a lot or parcel, the location of the boundary shall be determined by the scale contained on the Official Zoning Map.

• (5) Where there is an obvious mistake that can be corrected by reference to documents on file or by reference to the legislative record, the City Manager may identify the zone boundary.

(Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.)

Development Character Areas are established to ensure that appropriate development regulations are applied to community plan areas based upon their age and geographic location and include Proposition A Lands, Planned Urbanized Communities , and Urbanized Communities . Development Character Area boundaries generally follow community plan area boundaries except in the case of University City, which falls into two Development Character Areas. Development Character Areas are represented on Figure 131-01A.

(Added 4-8-2008 by O-19734 N.S; effective 5-8-2008.)

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Figure 131-01A Development Character Areas

==> picture [460 x 557] intentionally omitted <==

(Added 4-8-2008 by O-19734 N.S; effective 5-8-2008.)

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• (a) A use shall be identified as belonging to a use category and use subcategory based upon the descriptions in Section 131.0112 and the facility needs and operational characteristics of the use including type of use, intensity of use, and development characteristics of use. The Use Regulations Tables in the base zones shall be used to determine in which base zones the use is permitted. If a particular use could meet the description of more than one use subcategory, the subcategory with the most direct relationship to the specific use shall apply. The City Manager shall identify a particular uses’s category and subcategory upon request of an applicant or a property owner.

• (b) If the applicant or property owner disputes the City Manager’s determination, the City Manager may place the question of the appropriate use category and use subcategory for that particular use on the Planning Commission’s agenda. The City Manager shall present the factors used in the determination and the position of the applicant or property owner. The Planning Commission shall recommend to the City Manager its interpretation of the appropriate use category or use subcategory for the particular use.

• (c) If an appropriate use category and use subcategory cannot be determined for a specific use by referring to the Use Regulations Tables, an amendment to the Use Regulations Table may be initiated in accordance with Chapter 12, Article 3, Division 1 (Zoning and Rezoning Procedures).

(Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.)

For the purpose of determining applicable development regulations, use categories shall be grouped according to the following:

• (a) Any use within the open space use category is considered an open space use or open space development .

• (b) Any use within the agricultural use category is considered an agricultural use or agricultural development .

• (c) Any use within the residential use category is considered a residential use or residential development .

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• (d) Any use within the institutional, retail sales, commercial services, offices, and vehicle and vehicular equipment sales and services categories is considered a commercial use or commercial development .

• (e) Any use within the wholesale, distribution, storage, and industrial categories is considered an industrial use or industrial development .

(Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.)

• (a) The following are descriptions of each use category and subcategory found in the Use Regulations Tables of each base zone. These descriptions shall be used to classify specific uses into use subcategories for the purpose of determining applicable use regulations, in accordance with Section 131.0110. A description of separately regulated uses is located in Section 131.0112(b).

  • (1) Open Space Use Category

    • This category includes uses that may occur on land that has been identified for public recreational uses or to be left in a generally natural state. The open space subcategories are:

    • (A) Active Recreation — Public park facilities that require major land development for installation, require a high level of maintenance, and can accommodate large assemblages of people.

    • (B) Natural Resources Preservation — Undeveloped land left in a natural state for specific use as visual open space or environmental mitigation.

    • (C) Park Maintenance Facilities — Major structures or facilities used in conjunction with the maintenance of public parks .

    • (D) Passive Recreation — Recreational facilities associated with pastimes that are incidental to natural open space. These facilities require minor land development for installation, require minimum maintenance, do not attract large assemblages of people, and have little impact on natural open space.

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• (2) Agriculture Use Category

This category includes uses that involve the raising and harvesting of crops, the raising of animals, and the processing of plant and animal by-products. The agriculture subcategories are:

• (A) Agricultural Processing — Uses related to the processing or preparation of crops, animals, or animal by-products grown or raised on the same premises for consumption or transportation to markets.

• (B) Aquaculture Facilities — Uses that grow plants and animals in a water medium, either indoors or outdoors.

• (C) Dairies — Uses related to the milking of livestock and processing milk for consumption or transportation to markets.

• (D) Horticulture Nurseries and Greenhouses — Uses that propagate and grow plants in containers or in the ground and the associated sales of those plants.

• (E) Raising and Harvesting of Crops — Uses that involve the planting, maintaining, and harvesting of crops for consumption or for commercial purposes.

• (F) Raising, Maintaining, and Keeping of Animals — Uses that involve the feeding, housing, and maintenance of animals for private or commercial purposes.

• (3)

• Residential Use Category

This category includes uses that provide living accommodations for one or more persons. The residential subcategories are:

• (A) Rooming houses. Rooming house has the same meaning as in San Diego Municipal Code Section 113.0103.

• (B) Mobilehome Parks — A premises with two or more mobilehomes used as dwelling units , other than an Accessory Dwelling Unit , Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit , movable tiny house or employee housing.

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• (C) Multiple Dwelling Units — Dwelling units where more than one dwelling unit , other than an Accessory Dwelling Unit, Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit , movable tiny house or employee housing, is located on a single lot .

• (D) Single Dwelling Units — Dwelling units where no more than one dwelling unit is located on a lot , usually detached, and occupied by a single household unit.

• (E) Shopkeeper unit — shopkeeper unit has the same meaning as in San Diego Municipal Code Section 113.0103.

• (4) Institutional Use Category

This category includes uses that provide unique services that are of benefit to society as a whole. All of the uses in this use category are separately regulated uses. See Section 131.0112(b).

• (5) Retail Sales Use Category

This category includes uses involving the sale, lease or rental of new or used goods to the general public. The retail sales subcategories are:

• (A) Building Supplies and Equipment — Uses that provide goods to repair, maintain, or visually enhance a structure or premises

• (B) Consumer Goods, Furniture, Appliances, and Equipment — Uses that provide goods, large and small, functional and decorative, for use, entertainment, comfort, or aesthetics.

• (C) Food, Beverages, and Groceries — Uses that provide food for consumption off of the premises .

• (D) Pets and Pet Supplies — Uses that provide household pets and pet supplies for sale; grooming services.

• (E) Sundries, Pharmaceuticals, and Convenience Sales — Uses that provide goods for personal grooming and for the day-today maintenance of personal health and well-being.

• (F) Wearing Apparel and Accessories — Uses that provide goods to cover, protect, or visually enhance the human form.

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• (6) Commercial Services Use Category

This category includes uses that provide for consumer or business services, for the repair and maintenance of a wide variety of products, and for entertainment. The commercial services subcategories are:

• (A) Building Services — Uses that provide maintenance and repair services for all structural and mechanical elements of structures , as well as the exterior spaces of a premises .

• (B) Business Support — Uses that provide personnel services, printing, copying, and photographic services, or communication services.

• (C) Eating and Drinking Establishments — Uses that prepare or serve food or beverages for consumption on or off the premises .

• (D) Financial Institutions — Uses related to the exchange, lending, borrowing, and safe-keeping of money.

• (E) Funeral and Morturary Services — Uses that provide services related to the death of a human.

• (F) Instructional Studios - Uses that provide a place where skills including dance, art, and martial arts are taught to individuals or groups. Instructional studios also include recreation and physical fitness facilities that accommodate a maximum occupancy of 24 persons. Instructional studios do not include educational facilities.

• (G) Maintenance and Repair - Uses that provide maintenance, cleaning and repair services for consumer goods.

• (H) Off-Site Services - Uses that provide for deliveries of a wide variety of products and that provide services that are used at a location separate from the business providing the delivery or service.

• (I) Personal Services - Uses that provide a variety of services associated with personal grooming and the maintenance of health and well-being. Personal services do not include recreation or physical fitness facilities.

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• (J) Radio and Television Studios - Uses that provide for the production, recording, and broadcasting of radio and television shows and motion pictures.

• (K) Visitor Accommodations - Uses that provide lodging, or a combination of lodging, food, and entertainment, primarily to visitors and tourists. (Outside the Coastal Overlay Zone, includes SRO hotels .)

• (L) Tasting rooms - Uses accessory to a beverage manufacturing plant that offer tastings and sell beverages manufactured on the premises for on-site or off-site consumption. The subcategory includes establishments such as breweries, wineries, and distilleries that offer tastings and sales of alcoholic beverages in accordance with a license issued by the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control. This subcategory does not include uses that qualify as retail tasting stores under Section 141.0508.

• (7) Office Use Category

This category includes uses in an enclosed building that focus on business, government, professional, medical, or financial services. The offices subcategories are:

• (A) Business and Professional — Uses related to earning a livelihood through a commercial or mercantile endeavor or through the practice of a vocation requiring specialized training or education.

• (B) Government — Uses related to the administration of the regulations of local, state, or federal government.

• (C) Medical, Dental, and Health Practitioner — Uses related to diagnosis and treatment of human illness and physical malfunction that can be performed in an office setting. Medical and dental laboratories are included in this subcategory, unless otherwise indicated.

• (D) Regional and Corporate Headquarters — Uses related to the administration of large or geographically widespread businesses that may be located separately from the main activity of those businesses.

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• (8) Vehicle and Vehicular Equipment Sales and Services Use Category

This category includes uses that provide for the sale, rental, maintenance, or repair of new or used vehicles and equipment. The Vehicle and vehicular equipment sales and services subcategories are:

• (A) Commercial Vehicle Repair and Maintenance — Uses that repair and maintain the mechanical components or the bodies of large trucks, mass transit vehicles, large construction or agricultural equipment, aircraft, or commercial boats.

• (B) Commercial Vehicle Sales and Rentals — Uses that provide for the sale or rental of large trucks, mass transit vehicles, large construction or agricultural equipment, aircraft, or commercial boats.

• (C) Personal Vehicle Repair and Maintenance — Uses that repair the mechanical components or the bodies of autos, small trucks or vans, motorcycles, motor homes, or recreational vehicles including recreational boats or that wash, clean, or otherwise protect the exterior and interior surfaces of these vehicles.

• (D) Personal Vehicle Sales and Rentals — Uses that provide for the sale or rental of new or used autos, small trucks or vans, motorcycles, motor homes, or recreational vehicles including recreational boats.

• (E) Vehicle Equipment and Supplies Sales and Rentals — Uses related to the sale, lease, or rental of new or used parts, tools, or supplies for the purpose of repairing or maintaining vehicles, including distribution of products from the same premises that sells, leases, or rents them.

• (9) Distribution and Storage Use Category

This category includes uses that distribute and store goods. Long-term and short-term storage of commercial goods and personal items is included. The subcategories are:

• (A) Equipment and Materials Storage Yards - Uses engaged in the outdoor storage of large equipment or products or large quantities of material.

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• (B) Moving and Storage Facilities - Uses engaged in the moving and storage of household or office furniture, personal items, appliances, and equipment.

• (C) Distribution Facilities - Uses engaged in the commercial storage and distribution of goods.

• (10) Industrial Use Category

This category includes uses that produce goods from extracted and raw materials or from recyclable or previously prepared materials, including the design, storage, and handling of these products and the materials from which they are produced. The subcategories are:

• (A) Heavy Manufacturing - Uses that process, fabricate, assemble, or treat materials using large outdoor equipment such as cranes and large tanks to produce unpackaged bulk products such as steel, paper, lumber, fertilizer, and petrochemicals. This subcategory includes heavy manufacturing uses that typically produce disturbing noise, dust, or other pollutants capable of harming or annoying adjacent uses.

y Manufacturing - Uses that process, fabricate, assemble, or treat materials using large outdoor equipment such as cranes and large tanks to produce unpackaged bulk products such as steel, paper, lumber, fertilizer, and petrochemicals. This subcategory includes heavy manufacturing uses that typically produce disturbing noise, dust, or other pollutants capable of harming or annoying adjacent uses.

• (B) Light Manufacturing - Uses that process, fabricate, assemble, treat, or package finished parts or products without the use of explosives or unrefined petroleum. This subcategory includes light manufacturing uses that produce a wide variety of products including, but not limited to, durable goods, machinery, equipment, or large food and beverage production facilities that do not meet the criteria for artisan food and beverage production pursuant to Section 141.1001.

• (C) Marine Industry — Uses that produce, distribute, and store commercial marine vessels and equipment.

• (D) Research and Development – Uses engaged in scientific research including computational modeling, bio-informatics, and testing leading to the development of new products and processes.

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• (E) Testing Labs – Uses engaged in health and safety testing of raw, processed, and manufactured products. This subcategory does not include laboratories that qualify under Medical, Dental & Health Practitioner or testing that qualifies under Research & Development.

• (F) Trucking and Transportation Terminals – Uses engaged in the dispatching of large vehicles to collect or deliver goods or materials, or to transport people. Minor repair, maintenance, and storage of fleet vehicles used on the premises is also included.

• (11) Signs Use Category

This category includes all structures that provide identification of businesses, products, services, or sites. The sign subcategory is: Allowable Signs — Structures that are placed on the ground, or on building facades or roofs, whose sign copy identifies a business, a premises , activities on a premises , or direction to a premises . See Section 142.1205.

• (b) Separately regulated uses are uses that may or may not meet the description of a use subcategory but are listed separately from any subcategory because in some or all zones they are regulated differently from other uses. Each use category contains a list of separately regulated uses, some of which may meet the description of a use subcategory within the same or another category. The use regulations identified for the separately regulated use shall supersede the use regulations for the use subcategory that may match the particular use.

because in some or all zones they are regulated differently from other uses. Each use category contains a list of separately regulated uses, some of which may meet the description of a use subcategory within the same or another category. The use regulations identified for the separately regulated use shall supersede the use regulations for the use subcategory that may match the particular use.

(Amended 6-12-2001 by O-18948 N.S.; effective 12-12-2001.) (Amended 4-23-2008 by O-19739 N.S.; effective 5-23-2008.) (Amended 8-4-2011 by O-20081 N.S.; effective 10-6-2011.) (Amended 5-5-2015 by O-20481 N.S.; effective 6-4-2015.) (Amended 10-15-2015 by O-20567 N.S.; effective 11-14-2015.) (Amended 12-1-2016 by O-20752 N.S.; effective 12-31-2016.) (Amended 2-22-2017 by O-20793 N.S.; effective 4-12-2017.) (Amended 9-15-2017 by O-20857 N.S.; effective 10-15-2017.) (Amended 10-17-2017 by O-20859 N.S.; effective 11-16-2017.) (Amended 3-22-2018 by O-20917 N.S.; effective 4-21-2018.) (Amended 8-9-2019 by O-21114 N.S.; effective 9-8-2019.) (Amended 1-8-2020 by O-21164 N.S.; effective 2-9-2020.)

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(Amended 8-12-2020 by O-21223 N.S.; effective 10-8-2020.) (Amended 10-30-2020 by O-21254 N.S.; effective 11-29-2020.)

In addition to the regulations of the base zones applied to property as described in this article, overlay zone regulations may also apply. Overlay zone regulations are located in Chapter 13, Article 2.

(Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.)

In addition to the regulations of the base zones applied to property as described in this article, planned district regulations may also apply. Applicable planned district regulations are located in Chapter 15, Article 2.

(Amended 10-2-2000 by O-18853 N.S.)

Development that complies with the applicable land use plan , but contains uses and/or density that are not consistent with the underlying base zone, may be permitted as follows:

• (a) Residential development and residential mixed-use development proposing residential uses and/or density may be permitted upon issuance of a construction permit decided in accordance with a Process One. Development in accordance with this Section 131.0123 shall not preclude the use of the Affordable Housing Regulations in Chapter 14, Article 3, Division 7, where applicable.

• (b) Development other than the residential development specified in Section 131.0123(a) may be permitted with a Planned Development Permit in accordance with Section 126.0602(a)(2).

(“Development Consistent with the Land Use Plan But Not the Base Zone” added 10-30-2020 by O-21254 N.S.; effective 11-29-2020.)

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• (a) When the Use Regulations Table in any base zone identifies a use as a limited use or requiring a Neighborhood Use Permit or Conditional Use Permit, that use shall be subject to the same use regulations and use permit requirements whether or not the use is deemed a primary use or an accessory use on the premises .

• (b) A use that belongs in a subcategory where the subcategory is identified as not permitted in a particular base zone may be permitted as an accessory use in that zone, subject to all of the following requirements:

  • (1) The use must meet the definition of an accessory use , as specified in Section 113.0103;

  • (2) The use must be consistent with any use and development regulations applicable to that use in any other base zone in the same type of zone (open space, agricultural, residential, commercial, or industrial);

  • (3) The floor area of a single accessory use shall not exceed 25 percent of the gross floor area of the structures on the premises ;

  • (4) At least 51 percent of the gross floor area on the premises shall be occupied by a primary use or combination of multiple allowed uses;

  • (5) When a premises contains multiple tenants, the determination of accessory use shall be based on the gross floor area of the individual tenant.

• (c) A separately regulated use that is identified as not permitted in a particular zone is not permitted as an accessory use in that zone.

(Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.)

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The following regulations are related to other development regulations that are addressed in the Development Regulations Tables in each of the base zones and are applicable to all base zones. Except as specified by the applicable zone, yards and landscaped areas may be used only for the following items and purposes:

• (a) Living Landscape Material.

• (b) Incidental passage and use by occupants.

• (c) Landscape elements, constructed and installed to complement living landscape material, and not exceeding a height of 3 feet within front and street side yards.

• (d) Fences and walls as permitted in Chapter 14, Article 2, Division 3 (Fence Regulations).

• (e) Directional and other notification signs as permitted in Chapter 14, Article 2, Division 12 (Sign Regulations).

• (f) Walkways and paved driveways consistent with zone standards and applicable parking and landscape regulations.

• (g) Items that the City Manager may determine to be necessary to accommodate a temporary period of construction, site modification, or equipment change, when there is evidence of frequent and diligent physical effort to complete work.

• (h) Parking in accordance with Section 142.0510.

• (i) Storage of items when screened in accordance with Chapter 14, Article 2, Division 11 (Outdoor Storage and Display Regulations).

(Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; amended 10-18-1999 by O-18691 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.)

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The following regulations in Chapter 14 apply to development in all base zones:

General Development Regulations (Chapter 14, Article 2)

Supplemental Development Regulations (Chapter 14, Article 3)

Subdivision Regulations (Chapter 14, Article 4)

Building Regulations (Chapter 14, Article 5) Electrical Regulations (Chapter 14, Article 6) Plumbing Regulations (Chapter 14, Article 7)

Mechanical Regulations (Chapter 14, Article 8)

(“Applicability of Chapter 14 Regulations” added 8-4-2011 by O-20081 N.S.; effective 10-6-2011.)

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Article 1: Base Zones

Division 2: Open Space Base Zones (Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.)

The purpose of the open space zones is to protect lands for outdoor recreation, education, and scenic and visual enjoyment; to control urban form and design; and to facilitate the preservation of environmentally sensitive lands . It is intended that these zones be applied to lands where the primary uses are parks or open space or to private land where development must be limited to implement open space policies of adopted land use plans or applicable federal and state regulations and to protect the public health, safety, and welfare.

(Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.)

• (a) The purpose of the OP zones is to be applied to public parks and facilities in order to promote recreation and facilitate the implementation of land use plans . The uses permitted in these zones will provide for various types of recreational needs of the community.

• (b) The OP zones are differentiated based on the uses allowed as follows:

  • OP-1-1 allows developed, active parks

  • OP-2-1 allows parks for passive uses with some active uses

(Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.) (Amended 5-5-2015 by O-20481 N.S.; effective 6-4-2015.)

The purpose of the OC zone is to protect natural and cultural resources and environmentally sensitive lands . It is intended that the uses permitted in this zone be limited to aid in the preservation of the natural character of the land, thereby implementing land use plans .

(Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.)

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• (a) The purpose of the OR zones is to preserve privately owned property that is designated as open space in a land use plan for such purposes as preservation of public health and safety, visual quality, sensitive biological resources , steep hillsides , and control of urban form, while retaining private development potential. These zones are also intended to help implement the habitat preservation goals of the City and the MHPA by applying development restrictions to lands wholly or partially within the boundaries of the MHPA . Development in these zones will be limited to help preserve the natural resource values and open space character of the land.

• (b) The OR zones are differentiated based on the uses allowed as follows:

  • OR-1-1 allows open space with limited private residential development

  • • OR-1-2 allows open space with limited private residential development and to implement the MHPA

(Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.)

The purpose of the OF zone is to control development within floodplains to protect the public health, safety, and welfare and to minimize hazards due to flooding in areas identified by the FIRM on file with the City Engineer. It is the intent of the OF zone to preserve the natural character of floodplains while permitting development that will not constitute a dangerous condition or an impediment to the flow of flood waters. It is also the intent to minimize the expenditure of public money for costly flood control projects and to protect the functions and values of the floodplains relating to groundwater recharge, water quality, moderation of flood flows, wildlife movement, and habitat.

(Amended 4-22-2002 by O-19051 N.S.; effective 10-8-2002.)

On the effective date of Ordinance O-18691, all open space zones that were established in Municipal Code Chapter 10, Article 1, Division 4 were amended and replaced with the base zones established in this division.

(Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.)

(Amended 11-13-2008 by O-19801 N.S.; effective 12-13-2008.)

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The regulations of Section 131.0222 apply in the open space zones where indicated in Table 131-02B.

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

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

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

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

• (b) Within the open space 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 131-02B. It is unlawful to establish, maintain, or use any premises for any purpose or activity inconsistent with this section or Section 131.0222.

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

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

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

• (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.)

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The uses allowed in the open space zones are shown in Table 131-02B.

Legend for Table 131-02B

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Table 131-02B

Use Regulations Table for Open Space Zones

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Footnotes for Table 131-02B

• 1 All uses in the OR zone, except passive recreation and natural resource preservation, shall be located within the allowable development area in accordance with Section 131.0250.

• 2 This use is permitted only if consistent with an approved park general development plan or master plan and is subject to any requirements identified in the plan. Vending in certain public places must comply with the provisions of sections 63.0102(b)(13) and (14) and 63.20.20.

• 3 The 40,000 square feet includes all indoor and outdoor areas that are devoted to the recreational use; it does not include customer parking areas.

• 4 Excluding the maintaining, raising, feeding, or keeping of swine. The maintaining, raising, feeding, or keeping of more than 10 domestic animals requires a premises of at least 5 acres.

• 5 Excluding storage of vehicles, containers, chemicals, and other items that may be hazards during or after a flood .

• 6 The City Manager will determine if a particular use is appropriate as a passive use in conformance with an approved development plan, park plan, or other plans applicable to the property.

• 7 No structures , except portable structures , are permitted within a floodway .

• 8 This use is only allowed in the OR-1-2 zone subject to the regulations in Section 141.1006 and the regulations in Chapter 14, Article 3, Division 1 (Environmentally Sensitive Lands Regulations).

• 9 No driving ranges or night use are permitted within the MHPA .

• 10 No fill or permanent structures shall be authorized for such development in the Coastal Overlay Zone.

• 11 Within the Coastal Overlay Zone, no structures are permitted within a floodway.

• 12 See Section 141.0422.

(Amended 4-23-2008 by O-19739 N.S.; effective 5-23-2008.) (Amended 11-13-08 by O-19799 N.S; effective 12-13-2008.) (Amended 11-13-08 by O-19803 N.S; effective 12-13-2008.) (Amended 11-13-08 by O-19804 N.S; effective 12-13-2008.) (Amended 8-4-2011 by O-20081 N.S.; effective 10-6-2011.) (Amended 2-22-2012 by O-20141 N.S.; effective 3-23-2012.) (Amended 6-18-2013 by O-20261 N.S.; effective 7-19-2013.) (Amended 3-25-2014 by O-20356 N.S.; effective 4-24-2014.) (Amended 4-3-2014 by O-20357 N.S.; effective 10-15-2014.) (Amended 5-5-2015 by O-20481 N.S.; effective 6-4-2015.) (Amended 7-10-2015 by O-20512 N.S.; effective 8-9-2015.) (Amended 8-7-2015 by O-20555 N.S.; effective 9-6-2015.) (Amended 4-5-2016 by O-20634 N.S.; effective 5-5-2016.)

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(Amended 8-4-2016 by O-20704 N.S.; effective 8-27-2016.) (Amended 12-1-2016 by O-20752 N.S.; effective 12-31-2016.) (Amended 2-22-2017 by O-20793 N.S.; effective 4-12-2017.) (Amended 9-15-2017 by O-20857 N.S.; effective 10-15-2017.) (Amended 10-17-2017 by O-20859 N.S.; effective 11-16-2017.) (Amended 3-22-2018 by O-20917 N.S.; effective 4-21-2018.) (Amended 5-22-2018 by O-20928 N.S.; effective 6-21-2018.) (Amended 8-9-2019 by O-21114 N.S. and O-21117 N.S.; effective 9-8-2019.) (Amended 1-8-2020 by O-21163 N.S. and O-21164 N.S.; effective 2-9-2020.) (Amended 8-12-2020 by O-21223 N.S.; effective 10-8-2020.) (Amended 10-30-2020 by O-21254 N.S.; effective 11-29-2020.) (Amended 2-1-2021 by O-21288 N.S.; effective 3-3-2021.) (Amended 4-14-2021 by O-21305 N.S.; effective 5-29-2021.) (Amended 11-23-2021 by O-21391 N.S.; effective 1-6-2022.) (Amended 1-27-2022 by O-21416 N.S.; effective 2-26-2022.) (Amended 5-23-2022 by O-21458 N.S.; effective 6-22-2022.) (Amended 3-7-2023 by O-21618 N.S.; effective 5-6-2023.) (Amended 7-22-2024 by O-21836 N.S.; effective 10-5-2024.)

[Editors Note: Amendments as adopted by O-21836 N.S. will not apply within the Coastal Overlay Zone until the California Coastal Commission certifies it as a Local Coastal Program Amendment.

Click the link to view the Strikeout Ordinance highlighting changes to prior language http://docs.sandiego.gov/municode_strikeout_ord/O-21836-SO.pdf ]

(Amended 12-18-2024 by O-21905 N.S.; effective 2-6-2025.)

• (a) Within the open space zones no structure or improvement shall be constructed, established, or altered, nor shall any premises be used unless the premises complies with the regulations and standards in this division and with any applicable development regulations in Chapter 13, Article 2 (Overlay Zones) and Chapter 14 (General and Supplemental Regulations).

• (b) A Neighborhood Development Permit or Site Development Permit is required for the types of development identified in Table 143-03A.

• (c) The regulations in this division apply to all development in the open space base zones whether or not a permit or other approval is required except where specifically identified.

• (Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; amended 10-18-1999 by O-18691 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.)

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The following development regulations apply in the open space zones as shown in Table 131-02C.

Table 131-02C Development Regulations for Open Space Zones

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Footnotes for Table 131-02C

• 1 Refer to Section 143.0146 for supplemental development regulations for the OF zone.

• 2 See Section 131.0240(a).

• 3 See Section 131.0250(a).

• 4 See Section 131.0250(b).

• 5 See Section 131.0240(b).

• 6 See Section 131.0260(a)

• 7 See Section 131.0260(b)

• 8 See Section 131.0260(c)

(Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; amended 10-18-1999 by O-18691 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.)

(Amended 11-28-2005 by O-19444 N.S.; effective 2-9-2006.) (Amended 11-13-08 by O-19799 N.S; effective 12-13-2008.) (Amended 11-13-08 by O-19805 N.S; effective 12-13-2008.) (Amended 4-5-2016 by O-20634 N.S.; effective 5-5-2016.) (Amended 10-30-2020 by O-21254 N.S.; effective 11-29-2020.)

• (a) Within the OR-1-1 zone, an exception to the permitted residential density of one single dwelling unit per lot may be requested as a rural cluster development through a Planned Development Permit in accordance with Process Four subject to the following:

  • (1) The proposed development shall comply with Chapter 14, Article 3, Division 4 (Planned Development Permit Regulations).

  • (2) Dwelling units shall be clustered within the allowable development area as described in Section 131.0250(a) and need not be located on individual lots provided the overall density does not exceed one dwelling unit per 10 acres.

  • (3) The remainder of the premises shall be maintained in its natural state.

• (b) Within the OR-1-2 zone, an exception to the permitted residential density of one single dwelling unit per lot may be requested as a rural cluster development through a Planned Development Permit in accordance with Process Four subject to the following:

  • (1) The proposed development shall comply with Chapter 14, Article 3, Division 4 (Planned Development Permit Regulations).

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• (2) Dwelling units shall be clustered within the allowable development area as described in Section 131.0250(b) and need not be located on individual lots provided the overall density does not exceed one dwelling unit per 10 acres, except as described in Section 131.0240(b)(4).

• (3) The remainder of the premises shall be maintained in its natural state.

• (4) Within Proposition A Lands an increase in density of up to one dwelling unit per 4 acres of lot area may be requested through a Planned Development Permit in accordance with Process Five subject to the regulations in Section 143.0402. The remainder of the premises shall be left undeveloped in perpetuity.

(Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.) (Amended 4-8-2008 by O-19734 N.S; effective 5-8-2008.)

• (a) Within the OR-1-1 zone, up to 25 percent of the premises may be developed subject to the following:

  • (1) If 25 percent or more of the entire site is not in its natural state due to existing development , any new development proposed shall occur within the disturbed portion of the site and no additional development area is permitted.

  • (2) If the OR-1-1 zone applies only to a portion of a premises , the following regulations apply:

    • (A) If less than 25 percent of the premises is outside the OR-1-1 zone, the portion that is outside the OR-1-1 zone shall be developed before any encroachment into the OR-1-1 zoned portion. Encroachment into the OR-1-1 zone may be permitted to achieve a maximum development area of 25 percent of the entire site. See Diagram 131-02A.

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Diagram 131-02A Allowable Development Area with Encroachment Into OR-1-1 Zone

==> picture [337 x 142] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
Other Zone OR-1-1 Zone
A B
Area left in natural s tate
'A' = Area outs ide OR-1-1 Zone
mus t be dev eloped prior to
enc roac hment into OR-1-1 Zone
'B = amount of enc roac hment into OR-1-1 Zone is
'A' + 'B'= Allowable dev elopment
only the minimum nec es s ary to ac hiev e a
area (max 25% of entire premis es ) dev elopment area of 25% or entire premis es
----- End of picture text -----

• (B) If more than 25 percent of the premises is outside the OR-1-1 zone, the area outside the OR-1-1 zone may be developed and no additional development area is permitted. See Diagram 131-02B.

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Diagram 131-02B

Allowable Development Area Without Encroachment into OR-1-1 Zone

==> picture [381 x 140] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
Other Zone OR-1-1 Zone
Area left in
natural state
NOTE: No encroachment into the OR-1-1
Allowable development area outside Zone since more than 25% of entire
OR-1-1 Zone (equal to or greater than 25% of the Premises is outside OR-1-1 Zone
entire premises)
----- End of picture text -----

• (3) Within the Coastal Overlay Zone, only uses identified in Section 143.0130 (d) and (e) shall be permitted within wetlands subject to the provisions of Section 143.0141 (a) and (b).

• (4) Within the Coastal Overlay Zone, coastal development on premises with steep hillsides containing sensitive biological resources , or mapped as Viewshed or Geologic hazard on Map C-720, is subject to the encroachment limitations set forth in Section 143.0142(a).

• (b) A premises within the OR-1-2 zone, within or partially within the MHPA is subject to the following regulations:

  • (1) If the premises is located entirely within the boundary of the MHPA , a maximum of 25 percent of the site may be developed. See Diagram 131-02C.

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Diagram 131-02C

Allowable Development Area Entirely Within MHPA

==> picture [266 x 116] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
Outside MHPA Inside MHPA
Area left in
natural state
Maxium allowable development area
(25% of entire premises)
----- End of picture text -----

• (2) If the premises is located partially within the boundary of the MHPA , any development proposed must occur on the portion of the premises not within the MHPA . See Diagram 131-02D. If the portion of the premises not within the MHPA is greater than 25 percent of the premises area, the allowable development area may include all of the area outside of the MHPA , except as limited by Sections 143.0141(b) and (g) and 143.0142(a)(2).

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Diagram 131-02D

Allowable Development Area without Encroachment into MHPA

==> picture [372 x 277] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
Outside MHPA Inside MHPA
Area left in
natural state
NOTE: No encroachment into MHPA
since more than 25% of entire
Allowable development area outside MHPA site is outside MHPA
(equal to or greater than 25% of the entire premises)
(3) If the portion of the premises not within the MHPA boundary is less
than 25 percent of the premises area, encroachment into the MHPA
may be permitted to achieve a maximum development area of 25
percent of the premises . See Diagram 131-02E.
----- End of picture text -----

Diagram 131-02E

Allowable Development Area with Encroachment Into MHPA

==> picture [304 x 165] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
Outside MHPA Inside MHPA
'A'= Allowable developm ent 'B' = Am ount of encroachment into MHPA is only the minimum
area outside of MHPA necessary to achieve a development area of 25% of entire premises
‘A’ ‘B’ Area left in natural state
'A' + 'B' = Allowable development area
(max 25% of entire premises)
----- End of picture text -----

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• (4) Up to 5 percent of additional development area is permitted to accommodate essential public facilities only, as identified in the applicable land use plan as long as the total development area does not exceed 30 percent of the premises . This additional development area shall require mitigation.

• (5) The allowable development area shall be 1 acre for a premises with a total area of less than 4 acres provided the width of the MHPA is at least 1,000 feet where the premises is located. Mitigation will be required for any impacts from development in excess of 25 percent of the premises area.

• (6) The portions of the premises within the MHPA that are not included in the allowable development area shall be maintained in their natural state and may be used only for passive uses consistent with the Multiple Species Conservation Program .

• (7) Development within the OR-1-2 zone is subject to Chapter 14, Article 3, Division 1 (Environmentally Sensitive Lands Regulations) and the Biology Guidelines in the Land Development Manual.

• (8) Any development within the MHPA shall occur in the least sensitive areas first, in accordance with the Biology Guidelines in the Land Development Manual.

• (9) Any exception to the allowable development area regulations in this section is subject to Section 143.0150.

• (10) Within the Coastal Overlay Zone, only uses identified in Section 143.0130 (d) and (e) shall be permitted within wetlands subject to the provisions of Section 143.0141 (a) and (b).

• (11) Within the Coastal Overlay Zone, coastal development on premises with steep hillsides containing sensitive biological resources , or mapped as Viewshed or Geologic hazard on Map C-720, is subject to the encroachment limitations set forth in Section 143.0142(a).

(Amended 6-12-2001 by O-18948 N.S.; effective 12-12-2001.)

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EDITORS NOTE: The Land Development Manual includes:

Coastal Bluffs and Beaches Guidelines Biology Guidelines Historical Resources Guidelines

Submittal Requirements for Deviations within the Coastal Overlay Zone

See RR-292248 for the Coastal Bluffs and Beaches Guidelines of the Land Development Code; RR-292249 for the Biology Guidelines of the Land Development Code; RR-292250 for the Historical Resources Guidelines of the Land Development Code; RR-292251 for the Submittal Requirements for Deviations within the Coastal Overlay Zone of the Land Development Code.

Setbacks in the OR-1-1 Zone.

• (a) Front Setback

  • (1) For that portion of a lot that fronts a cul-de-sac , the minimum front setback may be reduced to 10 feet.

  • (2) For lots where at least one-half of the front 50 feet of the lot depth has a minimum slope gradient of 25 percent, the setback closest to the street frontage may be reduced to a minimum of 6 feet.

• (b) Side and Street Side Setbacks

  • (1) For lots exceeding 50 feet in width, each side setback shall be at least 8 feet or 10 percent of the width of the lot , whichever is greater, except one side setback may observe 8 feet as long as the combined dimensions of both side setbacks equals at least 20 percent of the lot width.

  • (2) For lots with 40 to 50 feet in width, each side setback is a minimum of 4 feet.

  • (3) For lots with less than 40 feet in width, each side setback may be reduced to 10 percent of the lot width but shall not be reduced to less than 3 feet.

  • (4) The street side setback is at least 10 feet or 10 percent of the lot width, whichever is greater.

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• (5) For irregularly shaped lots , such as pie shaped lots , the setbacks are based on the average lot width for the first 50 feet of lot depth.

• (6) For consolidated lots , the width for determining setback requirements is the width of the premises after the consolidation.

• (c) Rear Setback

The required rear setback is at least 20 feet, except as follows: (1) For lots with less than 100 feet in depth, the rear setback is at least 10 percent of the lot depth, but not less than 5 feet; and

• (2) For lots with greater than 200 in depth, the rear setback is at least 10 percent of the lot depth.

( Added 11-28-2005 by O-19444 N.S.; effective 2-9-2006.)

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Article 1: Base Zones

Division 3: Agricultural Base Zones (Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.)

The purpose of the agricultural zones is to provide for areas that are rural in character or areas where agricultural uses are currently desirable. The agricultural zones are intended to accommodate a wide range of agriculture and agriculture-related uses as well as single dwelling units .

(Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.)

• (a) The purpose of the AG zones is to accommodate all types of agricultural uses and some minor agricultural sales on a long-term basis. Nonagricultural uses are limited in the AG zones in order to strengthen the presence and retention of traditional agricultural uses.

• (b) The AG zones are differentiated based on the minimum lot size as follows:

  • AG-1-1 requires minimum 10-acre lots

  • AG-1-2 requires minimum 5-acre lots

(Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.)

• (a) The purpose of the AR zones is to accommodate a wide range of agricultural uses while also permitting the development of single dwelling unit homes at a very low density . The agricultural uses are limited to those of low intensity to minimize the potential conflicts with residential uses. This zone is applied to lands that are in agricultural use or that are undeveloped and not appropriate for more intense zoning. Residential development opportunities are permitted with a Planned Development Permit at various densities that will preserve land for open space or future development at urban intensities when and where appropriate.

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• (b) The AR zones are differentiated based on the minimum lot size as follows:

  • AR-1-1 requires minimum 10-acre lots

  • • AR-1-2 requires minimum 1-acre lots

(Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.) (Amended 10-18-1999 by O-18691 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.)

On the effective date of Ordinance O-18691, all agricultural zones that were established in Municipal Code Chapter 10, Article 1, Division 4 were amended and replaced with the base zones established in this division.

(Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.) (Amended 11-13-2008 by O-19801 N.S.; effective 12-13-2008.)

The regulations of Section 131.0322 apply in the agricultural zones where indicated in Table 131-03B.

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

  • (1) Section 131.0323 (Additional Use Regulations of Agricultural Zones);

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

  • (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 agricultural 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 131-03B. It is unlawful to establish, maintain, or use any premises for any purpose or activity not listed in this section or Section 131.0322.

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

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

• (e) Temporary uses may be permitted in the agricultural 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.)

The uses allowed in the agricultural zones are shown in Table 131-03B.

Legend for Table 131-03B

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Table 131-03B Use Regulations Table for Agricultural Zones

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Footnotes for Table 131-03B

• 1 This use is permitted only as an accessory use to a permitted agricultural use.

• 2 Maintaining, raising, feeding, or keeping of 10 or more domestic animals requires a premises of at least 5 acres.

• 3 Excludes maintaining, raising, feeding, or keeping of swine.

• 4 See Section 131.0323(a).

• 5 The 40,000 square feet includes all indoor and outdoor areas that are devoted to the recreational use; it does not include customer parking areas.

• 6 See Section 131.0323(b).

• 7 For housing 6 or fewer employees, see Section 141.030 4 to determine which use regulations apply.

• 8 Dairies require a premises of at least 5 acres.

• 9 This use is not allowed within the Coastal Overlay Zone

• 10 Not permitted within the following Special Flood Hazard Areas in the Coastal Overlay Zone: San Dieguito River, Carmel Creek, Los Penasquitos Lagoon, Los Penasquitos Creek, the Otay River and the Tijuana River.

• 11 Interpretive centers are not permitted within floodplains located in agriculturally zoned areas of the Coastal Overlay Zone.

• 12 This use is permitted by right on the property of a school , university, hospital, religious facility, or construction site, and is permitted as a limited use where accessory to commercial development , and designed and operated in compliance with Section 141.0612.

• 13 See Section 141.0422.

(Amended 8-10-2004 by O-19308 N.S.; effective 4-11-2007.) (Amended 4-23-2008 by O-19739 N.S.; effective 5-23-2008.) (Amended 11-13-2008 by O-19799 N.S; effective 12-13-2008.) (Amended 11-13-2008 by O-19803 N.S; effective 12-13-2008.) (Amended 11-13-2008 by O-19804 N.S; effective 12-13-2008.) (Amended 8-4-2011 by O-20081 N.S.; effective 10-6-2011.) (Amended 2-22-2012 by O-20141 N.S.; effective 3-23-2012.) (Amended 6-18-2013 by O-20261 N.S.; effective 7-19-2013.) (Amended 3-25-2014 by O-20356 N.S.; effective 4-24-2014.) (Amended 4-3-2014 by O-20357 N.S.; effective 10-15-2014.)

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(Amended 5-5-2015 by O-20481 N.S.; effective 6-4-2015.) (Amended 7-10-2015 by O-20512 N.S.; effective 8-9-2015.) (Amended 8-7-2015 by O-20555 N.S.; effective 9-6-2015.) (Amended 4-5-2016 by O-20634 N.S.; effective 5-5-2016.) (Amended 8-4-2016 by O-20704 N.S.; effective 8-27-2016.) (Amended 2-22-2017 by O-20793 N.S.; effective 4-12-2017.) (Amended 9-15-2017 by O-20857 N.S.; effective 10-15-2017.) (Amended 10-17-2017 by O-20859 N.S.; effective 11-16-2017.) (Amended 3-22-2018 by O-20917 N.S.; effective 4-21-2018.) (Amended 5-22-2018 by O-20928 N.S.; effective 6-21-2018.) (Amended 8-9-2019 by O-21114 N.S. and O-21117 N.S.; effective 9-8-2019.) (Amended 1-8-2020 by O-21163 N.S. and O-21164 N.S.; effective 2-9-2020.) (Amended 8-12-2020 by O-21223 N.S.; effective 10-8-2020.) (Amended 10-30-2020 by O-21254 N.S.; effective 11-29-2020.) (Amended 2-1-2021 by O-21288 N.S.; effective 3-3-2021.) (Amended 4-14-2021 by O-21305 N.S.; effective 5-29-2021.) (Amended 11-23-2021 by O-21391 N.S.; effective 1-6-2022.) (Amended 5-23-2022 by O-21458 N.S.; effective 6-22-2022.) (Amended 3-7-2023 by O-21618 N.S.; effective 5-6-2023.) (Amended 7-22-2024 by O-21836 N.S.; effective 10-5-2024.)

[Editors Note: Amendments as adopted by O-21836 N.S. will not apply within the Coastal Overlay Zone until the California Coastal Commission certifies it as a Local Coastal Program Amendment.

Click the link to view the Strikeout Ordinance highlighting changes to prior language http://docs.sandiego.gov/municode_strikeout_ord/O-21836-SO.pdf ]

(Amended 12-18-2024 by O-21905 N.S.; effective 2-6-2025.)

(Amended 7-23-2025 by O-21989 N.S.; effective 8-22-2025.)

[Editors Note: Amendments as adopted by O-21989 N.S. will not apply within the Coastal Overlay Zone until the California Coastal Commission certifies it as a Local Coastal Program Amendment.

Click the link to view the Strikeout Ordinance highlighting changes to prior language http://docs.sandiego.gov/municode_strikeout_ord/O-21989-SO.pdf ]

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The additional use regulations identified in this section are applicable to uses where indicated in Table 131-03B.

• (a) Agricultural processing is permitted as an accessory use subject to the following:

  • (1) The processing must be accessory to a primary agricultural use located on the same premises ;

  • (2) At least 60 percent of the products to be processed must be produced on the same premises ; and

  • (3) Killing or dressing of animals other than poultry, fowl, or rabbits raised on the same premises is not permitted. Any building used for this purpose shall not be closer than 50 feet to any property line .

• (b) Horticulture nurseries are permitted subject to the following:

  • (1) Only plants are permitted to be sold on the premises . The sale of nonplant items requires a Conditional Use Permit for a plant nursery in accordance with Section 141.0505;

  • (2) At least 75 percent of the plants available for sale must be propagated or grown from saplings on the premises ; and

  • (3) The only buildings permitted on the premises are greenhouses, maintenance equipment storage buildings, and one building with a maximum area of 300 square feet for sales transactions.

(Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; amended 10-18-1999 by O-18691 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.)

(Amended 2-22-2012 by O-20141 N.S.; effective 3-23-2012.) (Amended 6-18-2013 by O-20261 N.S.; effective 7-19-2013.) (Amended 2-22-2017 by O-20793 N.S.; effective 4-12-2017.)

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• (a) Within the agricultural zones, no structure or improvement shall be constructed, established, or altered, nor shall any premises be used unless the premises complies with the regulations and standards in this division and with any applicable development regulations in Chapter 13, Article 2 (Overlay Zones) and Chapter 14 (General and Supplemental Regulations).

• (b) A Neighborhood Development Permit or Site Development Permit is required for the types of development identified in Table 143-03A.

• (c) The regulations in this division apply to all development in the agricultural base zones whether or not a permit or other approval is required except where specifically identified.

• (d) For development within the Del Mar Mesa Specific Plan area the development regulations identified in the Del Mar Mesa Specific Plan adopted on May 27, 1997 by Ordinance O-18337 shall apply.

(Amended 1-9-2001 by O-18910 N.S.; effective 8-8-2001.)

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Chapter 13: Zones

The following development regulations apply in the agricultural zones as shown in Table 131-03C.

Table 131-03C

Development Regulations for Agricultural Zones

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Footnotes for Table 131-03C

• 1 A single dwelling unit is permitted only as an accessory use to a permitted agricultural use on the same premises .

• 2

  • See Section 131.0340(a).

• 3 See Section 131.0340(b).

• 4 See Section 131.0342(a).

• 5 See Section 131.0342(b).

• 6 Each dwelling unit shall have a gross floor area of at least 650 square feet, not including the garage.

• 7 Structures that are used to provide shade areas for growing plants, such as green houses and agricultural shade structures , are not included for determining lot coverage .

(Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.) (Amended 10-18-1999 by O-18691 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000) (Amended 6-19-2000 by O-18814 N.S.) (Amended 11-13-2008 by O-19799 N.S; effective 12-13-2008.) (Amended 11-13-2008 by O-19801 N.S.; effective 12-13-2008.) (Amended 4-5-2016 by O-20634 N.S.; effective 5-5-2016.) (Amended 10-30-2020 by O-21254 N.S.; effective 11-29-2020.)

• (a) Within the AR-1-1 zone, an exception to the permitted residential density of one single dwelling unit per lot may be requested as a rural cluster development through a Planned Development Permit in accordance with Process Four subject to the following:

  • (1) The proposed development shall comply with Chapter 14, Article 3, Division 4 (Planned Development Permit Regulations).

  • (2) Dwelling units shall be clustered and need not be located on individual lots provided the overall density does not exceed one dwelling unit per 10 acres, except as described in Section 131.0340(a)(4).

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• (3) The remainder of the premises shall be left undeveloped until and if complete development at urban intensity is appropriate.

• (4) Within Proposition A Lands except within the Del Mar Mesa Specific Plan area, an increase in density of up to one dwelling unit pe 4 acres of lot area may be requested through a Planned Development Permit in accordance with Process Five subject to the regulations in Section 143.0402. The remainder of the premises shall be left undeveloped in perpetuity. For development within the Del Mar Mesa Specific Plan area, the rural cluster option is not available, and the maximum permitted density is that identified in the Del Mar Mesa Specific Plan adopted on May 27, 1997 by Ordinance O-18377.

• (b) Within the AR-1-2 zone, an exception to the permitted residential density of one single dwelling unit per lot may be requested as a rural cluster development through a Planned Development Permit in accordance with Process Four subject to the following:

  • (1) The proposed development shall comply with Chapter 14, Article 3, Division 4 (Planned Development Permit Regulations).

  • (2) Dwelling units shall be clustered and need not be located on individual lots provided the overall density does not exceed one dwelling unit per acre.

  • (3) The remainder of the premises shall be left undeveloped until and if complete development at urban intensity is appropriate.

(Amended 1-9-2001 by O-18910 N.S.; effective 8-8-2001.)

(Amended 4-8-2008 by O-19734 N.S; effective 5-8-2008.)

• (a) In the AR-1-2 zone, the front 25 percent of a lot may be tapered to coincide with the street frontage permitted in accordance with Section 131.0342(b) if that lot abuts the end of a public right-of-way where no provision is made for its future extension.

• (b) In the AR-1-2 zone, the required street frontage may be reduced to 60 feet for lots located at the end of a street where no provision is made for its future extension.

(Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.)

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• (a) The minimum side setback for a legal lot that existed on the effective date of this section and that has less than the minimum lot width specified in Table 131-03C, is 10 percent of the width of the lot or 5 feet, whichever is greater.

• (b) Architectural projections and encroachments may be permitted in accordance with the regulations in Section 131.0461 for lots in Agricultural-Residential (AR) zones that are one acre or less in lot area.

(Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.) (Amended 11-13-2008 by O-19801 N.S.; effective 12-13-2008.)

A structure may exceed the 30-foot structure height limit if the front, side, and rear setbacks are each increased by 10 feet for each 10 feet, or portion thereof, of structure height above 30 feet, except as limited by the regulations in Chapter 13, Article 2 (Overlay Zones).

(Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.)

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Chapter 13: Zones

(3-2026)

Article 1: Base Zones