San Diego Municipal Code Div. 5 Commercial Base Zones

(“Commercial Base Zones” added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.)

The purpose of the commercial zones is to provide for the employment, shopping, services, recreation, and lodging needs of the residents of and visitors to the City. The intent of the commercial zones is to provide distinct regulations for size, intensity, and design to reflect the variety of the desired development patterns within San Diego’s communities. (Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.)

(a) The purpose of the CN zones is to provide residential areas with access to a limited number of convenient retail and personal service uses. The CN zones are intended to provide areas for small scale, low intensity developments that are consistent with the character of the surrounding residential areas. The zones in this category may include residential development. Property within the CN zones will be primarily located along local and selected collector streets.

(b) The CN zones are differentiated based on the permitted lot size and pedestrian
orientation as follows:

• CN-1-1 allows development of a limited size with a pedestrian
orientation and permits a maximum density of 1 dwelling unit for each
3,000 square feet of lot area

• CN-1-2 allows development with an auto orientation and permits a
maximum density of 1 dwelling unit for each 1,500 square feet of lot
area

• CN-1-3 allows development with a pedestrian orientation and permits
a maximum density of 1 dwelling unit for each 1,500 square feet of lot
area

• CN-1-4 allows development with a pedestrian orientation and permits
a maximum density of 1 dwelling unit for each 1,000 square feet of lot
area

Ch. Art. Div.
13 1 5 1

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (3-2026)

• CN-1-5 allows development with a pedestrian orientation and permits
a maximum density of 1 dwelling unit for each 600 square feet of lot
area

• CN-1-6 allows development with a pedestrian orientation and permits
a maximum density of 1 dwelling unit for each 800 square feet of lot
area

(Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.)
(Amended 7-10-2015 by O-20512 N.S.; effective 8-9-2015.)
(Amended 12-1-2016 by O-20752 N.S.; effective 12-31-2016.)
(Amended 10-10-2018 by O-20991 N.S.; effective 11-9-2018.)

[Editors Note: Amendments as adopted by O-20991 N.S. will not apply within the Coastal Overlay Zone until the California Coastal Commission certifies O-20991 N.S. 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-20991-SO.pdf]

(a) The purpose of the CR zones is to provide areas for a broad mix of business/professional office, commercial service, retail, wholesale, and limited manufacturing uses. The CR zones are intended to accommodate large-scale, high intensity developments. Property within these zones will be primarily located along major streets, primary arterials, and major public transportation lines.

(b) The CR zones are designed for auto-oriented development and are
differentiated based on the uses allowed as follows:

• CR-1-1 allows a mix of regional serving commercial uses and
residential uses with an auto orientation and permits a maximum
density of 1 dwelling unit for each 1,500 square feet of lot area

• CR-2-1 allows regional serving commercial and limited industrial uses
with an auto orientation but no residential use
(Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.)
(Amended 7-10-2015 by O-20512 N.S.; effective 8-9-2015.)

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 5 2

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (3-2026)

(a) The purpose of the CO zones is to provide areas for employment uses with limited, complementary retail uses and residential use as specified. The CO zones are intended to apply in large-scale activity centers or in specialized areas where a full range of commercial activities is not desirable.

(b) The CO zones are differentiated based on the uses and development scale
allowed as follows:

(1) The following zones allow residential development:

• CO-1-1 is intended to accommodate a mix of office and
residential uses with a neighborhood scale and orientation and
permits a maximum density of 1 dwelling unit for each 1,000
square feet of lot area

• CO-1-2 is intended to accommodate a mix of office and
residential uses that serve as an employment center and permits
a maximum density of 1 dwelling unit for each 1,500 square
feet of lot area

(2) The following zones allow limited residential development:

• CO-2-1 is intended to accommodate office uses with a
neighborhood scale and orientation

• CO-2-2 is intended to accommodate office uses that serve as an
employment center

(3) The following zones allow residential development in high- intensity,
pedestrian-oriented business park development:

• CO-3-1 is intended to accommodate a mix of office uses that
serve as a high-intensity employment center with residential
uses and limited, complementary retail uses and permits a
maximum density of 1 dwelling unit for each 1,000 square feet
of lot area

• CO-3-2 is intended to accommodate a mix of office and
residential uses and permits a maximum density of 1 dwelling
unit for each 800 square feet of lot area

Ch. Art. Div.
13 1 5 3

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (3-2026)

• CO-3-3 is intended to accommodate a mix of office and residential uses and permits a maximum density of 1 dwelling unit for each 600 square feet of lot area (Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.) (Amended 7-10-2015 by O-20512 N.S.; effective 8-9-2015.) (Amended 10-10-2018 by O-20991 N.S.; effective 11-9-2018.)

[Editors Note: Amendments as adopted by O-20991 N.S. will not apply within the Coastal Overlay Zone until the California Coastal Commission certifies O-20991 N.S. 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-20991-SO.pdf]

(Amended 8-9-2019 by O-21114 N.S.; effective 9-8-2019.)

(a) The purpose of the CV zones is to provide areas for establishments catering to the lodging, dining, and recreational needs of both tourists and the local population. The CV zones are intended for areas located near employment centers and areas with recreational resources or other visitor attractions.

(b) The CV zones are differentiated based on development size and orientation as
follows:

• CV-1-1 is intended to accommodate a mix of large-scale, visitor-
serving uses and residential uses and permits a maximum density of 1
dwelling unit for each 1,500 square feet of lot area

• CV-1-2 is intended to accommodate a mix of visitor-serving uses and
residential uses with a pedestrian orientation and permits a maximum
density of 1 dwelling unit for each 1,500 square feet of lot area
(Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.)
(Amended 7-10-2015 by O-20512 N.S.; effective 8-9-2015.)

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 5 4

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (3-2026)

The purpose of the CP zone is to provide off-street parking areas for passenger automobiles. The CP zone is intended to be applied in conjunction with established commercial areas to provide needed or required off-street parking. (Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.)

(a) The purpose of the CC zones is to accommodate community-serving commercial services, retail uses, and limited industrial uses of moderate intensity and small to medium scale. The CC zones are intended to provide for a range of development patterns from pedestrian-friendly commercial streets to shopping centers and auto-oriented strip commercial streets. Some of the CC zones may include residential development. Property within the CC zones will be primarily located along collector streets, major streets, and public transportation lines.

(b) The CC zones are differentiated based on the uses allowed and regulations as
follows:

(1) The following zones allow a mix of community-serving commercial
uses and residential uses:

• CC-1-1 is intended to accommodate development with strip
commercial characteristics and permits a maximum density of
1 dwelling unit for each 1,500 square feet of lot area

• CC-1-2 is intended to accommodate development with high
intensity, strip commercial characteristics and permits a
maximum density of 1 dwelling unit for each 1,500 square feet
of lot area

• CC-1-3 is intended to accommodate development with an auto
orientation and permits a maximum density of 1 dwelling unit
for each 1,500 square feet of lot area

(2) The following zones allow community-serving uses with limited
residential uses:

• CC-2-1 is intended to accommodate development with strip
commercial characteristics

Ch. Art. Div.
13 1 5 5

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (3-2026)

• CC-2-2 is intended to accommodate development with high
intensity, strip commercial characteristics

• CC-2-3 is intended to accommodate development with an auto
orientation

• CC-2-4 is intended to accommodate development with a
pedestrian orientation

• CC-2-5 is intended to accommodate development with a high intensity, pedestrian orientation

(3) The following zones allow a mix of pedestrian-oriented, community-
serving commercial uses and residential uses:

• CC-3-4 is intended to accommodate development with a
pedestrian orientation and permits a maximum density of 1
dwelling unit for each 1,500 square feet of lot area

• CC-3-5 is intended to accommodate development with a high
intensity, pedestrian orientation and permits a maximum
density of 1 dwelling unit for each 1,500 square feet of lot area

• CC-3-6 is intended to accommodate development with a high
intensity, pedestrian orientation and permits a maximum
density of 1 dwelling unit for each 1,000 square feet of lot area

• CC-3-7 is intended to accommodate development with a high
intensity, pedestrian orientation and permits a maximum
density of 1 dwelling unit for each 800 square feet of lot area

• CC-3-8 is intended to accommodate development with a high
intensity, pedestrian orientation and permits a maximum
density of 1 dwelling unit for each 600 square feet of lot area

• CC-3-9 is intended to accommodate development with a high
intensity, pedestrian orientation and permits a maximum
density of 1 dwelling unit for each 400 square feet of lot area

• CC-3-10 is intended to accommodate development with a high
intensity, pedestrian orientation and permits a maximum
density of 1 dwelling unit for each 200 square feet of lot area

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 5 6

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (3-2026)

• CC-3-11 is intended to accommodate development with a high
intensity, pedestrian orientation and permits a maximum
density of 1 dwelling unit for each 150 square feet of lot area

(4) The following zones allow heavy commercial uses and residential
uses:

• CC-4-1 is intended to accommodate development with strip commercial characteristics and permits a maximum density of 1 dwelling unit for each 1,500 square feet of lot area

• CC-4-2 is intended to accommodate development with high
intensity, strip commercial characteristics and permits a
maximum density of 1 dwelling unit for each 1,500 square feet
of lot area

• CC-4-3 is intended to accommodate development with an auto
orientation and permits a maximum density of 1 dwelling unit
for each 1,500 square feet of lot area

• CC-4-4 is intended to accommodate development with a
pedestrian orientation and permits a maximum density of 1
dwelling unit for each 1,500 square feet of lot area

• CC-4-5 is intended to accommodate development with a high
intensity, pedestrian orientation and permits a maximum
density of 1 dwelling unit for each 1,500 square feet of lot area

• CC-4-6 is intended to accommodate development with a high
intensity, pedestrian orientation and permits a maximum
density of 1 dwelling unit for each 1,000 square feet of lot area

(5) The following zones allow a mix of heavy commercial and limited
industrial uses and residential uses:

• CC-5-1 is intended to accommodate development with strip
commercial characteristics and permits a maximum density of
1 dwelling unit for each 1,500 square feet of lot area

• CC-5-2 is intended to accommodate development with high
intensity, strip commercial characteristics and permits a
maximum density of 1 dwelling unit for each 1,500 square feet
of lot area

Ch. Art. Div.
13 1 5 7

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (3-2026)

• CC-5-3 is intended to accommodate development with an auto
orientation and permits a maximum density of 1 dwelling unit
for each 1,500 square feet of lot area

• CC-5-4 is intended to accommodate development with a pedestrian orientation and permits a maximum density of 1 dwelling unit for each 1,500 square feet of lot area

• CC-5-5 is intended to accommodate development with a high
intensity, pedestrian orientation and permits a maximum
density of 1 dwelling unit for each 1,500 square feet of lot area

• CC-5-6 is intended to accommodate development with a high
intensity, pedestrian orientation and permits a maximum
density of 1 dwelling unit for each 1,000 square feet of lot area
(Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.)
(Amended 7-10-2015 by O-20512 N.S.; effective 8-9-2015.)
(Amended 1-8-2020 by O-21164 N.S.; effective 2-9-2020.)
(Amended 9-17-2024 by O-21866 N.S.; effective 12-1-2024.)

On the effective date of Ordinance O-18692, all commercial 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 131.0522 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);

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 5 8

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (3-2026)

(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

(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)

The uses allowed in the commercial zones are shown in Table 131-05B.

Legend for Table 131-05B

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 5 10

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (3-2026)

Table 131-05B

Use Regulations Table for Commercial Zones

Use Categories/Subcategories Zone Zones Designator [See Section 131.0112 for an 1st & 2nd explanation and descriptions of >> CN- CR- CO- CV- CP- the Use Categories, 3rd >> 1- 1- 2- 1- 2- 3- 1- 1- Subcategories, and Separately 2 3 4 5 6 1 1 1 2 1 2 1 2 3 1 2 1 4th >>1 Regulated Uses] Open Space Active Recreation - - - - - - - - Passive Recreation - - - - - - - - Natural Resources Preservation - - - - - - - - Park Maintenance Facilities - - - - - - - - Agriculture Agricultural Processing - - - - - - - - Aquaculture Facilities - - - - - - - - Dairies - - - - - - - - Horticulture Nurseries & Greenhouses - - - - - - - - Raising & Harvesting of Crops - - - - - - - - Raising, Maintaining & Keeping of - - - - - - - - Animals Separately Regulated Agriculture Uses Agricultural Equipment Repair Shops - P P - - - - - Commercial Stables - - - - - - L - Community Gardens L L L L L L L L Equestrian Show & Exhibition Facilities - - - - - - C - Open Air Markets for the Sale of - - - - - - - - Agriculture-related Products & Flowers Residential Mobilehome Parks - - - - - - - - Multiple Dwelling Units P(2) P(2) - P(2) - P(2) P(2) - Rooming House [See Section P(2) P - P - P P(2) - 131.0112(a)(3)(A)] Shopkeeper Units P(2) P(2) - P(2) - P(2) P(2) - Single Dwelling Units - - - - - - - - Separately Regulated Residential Uses Accessory Dwelling Units L L - L - L L - Continuing Care Retirement Communities L L - L L L L - Employee Housing: 6 or Fewer Employees - - - - - - - -

Ch. Art. Div.
13 1 5 11

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (3-2026)

Use Categories/Subcategories Zone Zones Designator [See Section 131.0112 for an 1st & 2nd explanation and descriptions of >> CN- CR- CO- CV- CP- the Use Categories, 3rd >> 1- 1- 2- 1- 2- 3- 1- 1- Subcategories, and Separately 2 3 4 5 6 1 1 1 2 1 2 1 2 3 1 2 1 4th >>1 Regulated Uses] 12 or Fewer Employees - - - - - - - -

Greater than 12 Employees - - - - - - - -

Fraternities and Sororities L(2) L - L - - L(2) - Garage, Yard, & Estate Sales - - - - - - - - Guest Quarters - - - - - - - - Home Occupations L L - L - L L - Interim Ground Floor Residential N(18) N(18) - N(18) - N(18) N(18) - Junior Accessory Dwelling Units - - - - - - - - Live/Work Quarters L L L L - L L18 - Low Barrier Navigation Center L L - L - L L - Movable Tiny Houses - - - - - - - - Permanent Supportive Housing L L L L L L L L Residential Care Facilities: 6 or Fewer Persons P(2) P - P - P P(2) - 7 or More Persons L(2) L(2) L L L L L(2) - Student Housing L(2) L - L - - L(2) - Transitional Housing: 6 or Fewer Persons P(2) P - P - P P P(2) - 7 or More Persons L(2) L - L L L L (2) - Watchkeeper Quarters - - L - - - - - Institutional Separately Regulated Institutional Uses Airports - C C C C - C(10) - Battery Energy Storage Facilities Small Scale (≤ 0.25 acre) - L L L L L L(22) L Medium Scale (0.25 acre < 1 acre) - C C C C C C(22) - Large Scale (>1 acre) - C C C C C C(22) - Botanical Gardens & Arboretums - P P C C - P - Cemeteries, Mausoleums, Crematories - C C C C - C(10) - Correctional Placement Centers - C C C C - C(10) - Educational Facilities: Kindergarten through Grade 12 C(10) L L C C C C(10) - Colleges / Universities - C C C C C C(10) - Vocational / Trade School - P P P P C - - Electric Vehicle Charging Stations L L L L L L L L Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 5 12

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (3-2026)

Use Categories/Subcategories Zone Zones Designator [See Section 131.0112 for an 1st & 2nd explanation and descriptions of >> CN- CR- CO- CV- CP- the Use Categories, 3rd >> 1- 1- 2- 1- 2- 3- 1- 1- Subcategories, and Separately 2 3 4 5 6 1 1 1 2 1 2 1 2 3 1 2 1 4th >>1 Regulated Uses] Energy Generation & Distribution Facilities C(10) P C P P C P(10) - Exhibit Halls & Convention Facilities - P P C C - P - Flood Control Facilities L L L L L L L - Historical Buildings Used for Purposes Not C(10) C C C C C C(10) - Otherwise Allowed Homeless Facilities: Congregate Meal Facilities C C - C C C C - Emergency Shelters C C - C C C C - Homeless Day Centers C C - C C C C - Hospitals - P P C C C P(10) - Intermediate Care Facilities & Nursing - P P C C C P(10) - Facilities Interpretive Centers - - - - - - - - Museums - P P C C C P - Major Transmission, Relay, or - C C C C C C(10) - Communications Switching Stations Placemaking on Private Property L L L L L L L L Outdoor Dining on Private Property L(1) L L L L L L - Satellite Antennas L L L L L L L L Social Service Institutions - C C C C C C(10) - Solar Energy Systems L L L L L L L L Wireless Communications Facilities See Section 141.0420 Retail Sales Building Supplies & Equipment P(1,11) P(11) P(11) - - - - - Food, Beverages and Groceries P(1,11) P(11) P(11) P(11) P(11) P(11,19) P(11) - Consumer Goods, Furniture, Appliances, P(1,11) P(11) P(11) P(3,11) P(3,11) P(3,11, P(13) - Equipment 19) Pets & Pet Supplies P(1,11) P(11) P(11) - - - - - Sundries, Pharmaceutical, & Convenience P(1,11) P(11) P(11) P(11) P(11) P(11,19) P(11) - Sales Wearing Apparel & Accessories P(1,11) P(11) P(11) - - P(11,19) P(11) - Separately Regulated Retail Sales Uses

Ch. Art. Div.
13 1 5 13

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (3-2026)

Use Categories/Subcategories Zone Zones Designator [See Section 131.0112 for an 1st & 2nd explanation and descriptions of >> CN- CR- CO- CV- CP- the Use Categories, 3rd >> 1- 1- 2- 1- 2- 3- 1- 1- Subcategories, and Separately 2 3 4 5 6 1 1 1 2 1 2 1 2 3 1 2 1 4th >>1 Regulated Uses] Agriculture Related Supplies & Equipment - P P - - - - - Alcoholic Beverage Outlets L(1) L L L L L L - Cannabis Outlets - - C - C - - - Farmers’ Markets Weekly Farmers’ Markets L(1) L L L L L L L Daily Farmers’ Market Stands L(1) L L L L L L - Plant Nurseries P(1) P P - - - - - Retail Farms L(1) L L L L L - - Retail Tasting Stores L(1) L L L L L L - Swap Meets & Other Large Outdoor Retail - C C - - - C(10) - Facilities Commercial Services Building Services - P P P(6) P(6) P(6) - - Business Support P(1) P P P(5) P(7) P(7) - - Eating & Drinking Establishments P(1,4,16) P(16) P(16) P(5,16) P(5,16) P(5,16) P(16) - Financial Institutions P(1) P P P P P - - Funeral & Mortuary Services - P P - - - - - Instructional Studios P(1) P P P P P P(12) - Maintenance & Repair P(1) P P P(6) P(6) P(6) - - Off-site Services - P P - - - - - Personal Services P(1) P P - - P P - Radio & Television Studios - P P - - P - - Tasting Rooms - - - - - P - - Visitor Accommodations P(21) P P - P P P - Separately Regulated Commercial Services Uses Adult Day Care Facility L(1) L - L - L L - Adult Entertainment Establishments: Adult Book Store L(1) L L - - - - - Adult Cabaret - L L - - - L - Adult Drive-In Theater - L L - - - L - Adult Mini-Motion Picture Theater - L L - - - L - Adult Model Studio L(1) L L - - - L - Adult Motel - L L - - - L - Adult Motion Picture Theater - L L - - - L - Adult Peep Show Theater - L L - - - L - Adult Theater - L L - - - L -

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 5 14

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (3-2026)

Use Categories/Subcategories Zone Zones Designator [See Section 131.0112 for an 1st & 2nd explanation and descriptions of >> CN- CR- CO- CV- CP- the Use Categories, 3rd >> 1- 1- 2- 1- 2- 3- 1- 1- Subcategories, and Separately 2 3 4 5 6 1 1 1 2 1 2 1 2 3 1 2 1 4th >>1 Regulated Uses] Body Painting Studio L(1) L L - - - L - Massage Establishment L(1) L L - - - - - Sexual Encounter Establishment L(1) L L - - - L - Assembly and Entertainment Uses, Including L(10) L L L L L L(10) - Places of Religious Assembly Boarding Kennels/Pet Day Care L L L N N - N(10) - Camping Parks - C C C C - C - Child Care Facilities: Child Care Centers L(1) L - L L L L(10) - Large Family Child Care Homes L(1) L - L L L L(10) - Small Family Child Care Homes L(1) L - L L L L - Eating and Drinking Establishments with a - C(1) - - - - P P P - P - - Drive-in or Drive-through Component Fairgrounds - C C - - - C - Golf Courses, Driving Ranges, and Pitch & - C C C C - C - Putt Courses Helicopter Landing Facilities - C C C C C C(10) - Massage Establishments, Specialized Practice L(1) L L - - - L(14) - Mobile Food Trucks L(1)(15) L(15) L(15) L(15) L(15) L(15) L(15) L(15) Nightclubs & Bars Over 5,000 Square Feet - C C C C C C - in Size Parking Facilities as a Primary Use: Permanent Parking Facilities - P P C C - C P Temporary Parking Facilities - N N C C C C N Private Clubs, Lodges and Fraternal P(1)(10) P P P P P P(10) - Organizations Privately Operated, Outdoor Recreation - P P C C - C - Facilities over 40,000 Square Feet in Size(9) Pushcarts on Private Property L(1) L L L L L L - Recycling Facilities: Large Collection Facility N(1) N N N N - N(10) - Small Collection Facility L(1) L L L L - L(10) -

Ch. Art. Div.
13 1 5 15

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (3-2026)

Use Categories/Subcategories Zone Zones Designator [See Section 131.0112 for an 1st & 2nd explanation and descriptions of >> CN- CR- CO- CV- CP- the Use Categories, 3rd >> 1- 1- 2- 1- 2- 3- 1- 1- Subcategories, and Separately 2 3 4 5 6 1 1 1 2 1 2 1 2 3 1 2 1 4th >>1 Regulated Uses] Large Construction & Demolition Debris - - - - - - - - Recycling Facility Small Construction & Demolition Debris - - - - - - - - Recycling Facility Drop-off Facility L(1) L L L L - L - Green Materials Composting Facility - - - - - - - - Mixed Organic Composting Facility - - - - - - - - Large Processing Facility Accepting at - - - - - - - - Least 98% of Total Annual Weight of Recyclables from Commercial & Industrial Traffic Large Processing Facility Accepting All - - - - - - - - Types of Traffic Small Processing Facility Accepting at - - - - - - - - Least 98% of Total Annual Weight of Recyclables From Commercial & Industrial Traffic Small Processing Facility Accepting All - - - - - - - - Types of Traffic Reverse Vending Machines L(1) L L L L L L - Tire Processing Facility - - - - - - - - Sidewalk Cafes, Streetaries, and Active L(1) L L L L L L - Sidewalks Sports Arenas & Stadiums - C C C C - C - Theaters that are Outdoor or Over 5,000 - C C C C - C - Square Feet in Size Urgent Care Facilities L(20) N N N N N N(10) - Veterinary Clinics & Animal Hospitals L L L N N N - - Zoological Parks - - - - - - - - Offices Business & Professional P(1)(7) P P P P P19 - - Government P(1) P P P P P19 - - Medical, Dental & Health Practitioner P(1) P P P P P19 P(10) - Regional & Corporate Headquarters P(1) P P P P P19 - - Separately Regulated Office Uses Real Estate Sales Offices & Model Homes L(1) L - L L L L - Sex Offender Treatment & Counseling L(1) L L L L L L(10) - Vehicle & Vehicular Equipment Sales &

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 5 16

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (3-2026)

Use Categories/Subcategories Zone Zones Designator [See Section 131.0112 for an 1st & 2nd explanation and descriptions of >> CN- CR- CO- CV- CP- the Use Categories, 3rd >> 1- 1- 2- 1- 2- 3- 1- 1- Subcategories, and Separately 2 3 4 5 6 1 1 1 2 1 2 1 2 3 1 2 1 4th >>1 Regulated Uses] Service Commercial Vehicle Repair & - P P - - - - - Maintenance Commercial Vehicle Sales & Rentals - P P - - - - - Personal Vehicle Repair & Maintenance - P P - - - - - Personal Vehicle Sales & Rentals - P P - - - - - Vehicle Equipment & Supplies Sales & - P P - - - - - Rentals Separately Regulated Vehicle & Vehicular Equipment Sales & Service Uses Automobile Service Stations - N N C C C C - Outdoor Storage & Display of New, - C C - - - - - Unregistered Motor Vehicles as a Primary Use Vehicle Storage Facilities as a Primary Use - - - - - - - - Distribution and Storage Equipment & Materials Storage Yards - - P - - - - - Moving & Storage Facilities - - P - - - - - Distribution Facilities - - P(8) - - - - - Separately Regulated Distribution and Storage Uses Junk Yards - - - - - - - - Temporary Construction Storage Yards L(1) L L L L L L - Located Off-site Industrial Heavy Manufacturing - - - - - - - - Light Manufacturing - - P(8) - - - - - Marine Industry - - - - - - - - Research & Development - P P P P P - - Testing Labs - - P - P - - - Trucking & Transportation Terminals - P P - - - - - Separately Regulated Industrial Uses Artisan Food and Beverage Producer N(1) - - - - L - - Cannabis Production Facilities - - - - - - - - Hazardous Waste Research Facility - - - - - - - - Hazardous Waste Treatment Facility - - - - - - - - Marine Related Uses Within the Coastal - C C C L - C -

Ch. Art. Div.
13 1 5 17

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (3-2026)

Use Categories/Subcategories Zone Zones Designator [See Section 131.0112 for an 1st & 2nd explanation and descriptions of >> CN- CR- CO- CV- CP- the Use Categories, 3rd >> 1- 1- 2- 1- 2- 3- 1- 1- Subcategories, and Separately 2 3 4 5 6 1 1 1 2 1 2 1 2 3 1 2 1 4th >>1 Regulated Uses] Overlay Zone Mining and Extractive Industries - - - - - - - - Newspaper Publishing Plants - C C C C - C(10) - Processing & Packaging of Plant Products - - - - - - - - & Animal By-products Grown Off- premises Very Heavy Industrial Uses - - - - - - - - Wrecking & Dismantling of Motor - - - - - - - - Vehicles Signs Allowable Signs P P P P P P P P Separately Regulated Signs Uses Community Entry Signs L L L L L L L L Neighborhood Identification Signs - - - - - - - - Comprehensive Sign Program N N N N N N N N Revolving Projecting Signs N N N N N N N N Signs with Automatic Changing Copy N N N N N N N N Theater Marquees - N N - - - N -

Use Categories/Subcategories Zone Zones [See Section 131.0112 for an Designator explanation and descriptions of 1st & 2nd >> CC- the Use Categories, 3rd >> 1- 2- 3- 4- 5- Subcategories, and Separately 1 2 3 1 2 3 4 5 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 4 5 6 4th >> Regulated Uses] Open Space Active Recreation - - - - - - - Passive Recreation - - - - - - - Natural Resources Preservation - - - - - - - Park Maintenance Facilities - - - - - - - Agriculture Agricultural Processing - - - - - - - Aquaculture Facilities - - - - - - - Dairies - - - - - - - Horticulture Nurseries & Greenhouses - - - - - - - Raising & Harvesting of Crops - - - - - - -

Ch. Art. Div.
13 1 5 18

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (3-2026)

Use Categories/Subcategories Zone Zones [See Section 131.0112 for an Designator explanation and descriptions of 1st & 2nd >> CC- the Use Categories, 3rd >> 1- 2- 3- 4- 5- Subcategories, and Separately 1 2 3 1 2 3 4 5 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 4 5 6 4th >> Regulated Uses] Raising, Maintaining & Keeping of - - - - - - - Animals Separately Regulated Agriculture Uses Agricultural Equipment Repair Shops P P - - - P P Commercial Stables - - - - - - - Community Gardens L L L L L L L Equestrian Show & Exhibition Facilities - - - - - - - Open Air Markets for the Sale of Agriculture- - - - - - - - Related Products & Flowers Residential Mobilehome Parks - - - - - - - Multiple Dwelling Units P(2) P(2) P P P(2) P(2) - (2) (2)

Rooming House[See Section P P P P P P - 131.0112(a)(3)(A)] Shopkeeper Units P - P P P P P Single Dwelling Units - - - - - - - Separately Regulated Residential Uses Accessory Dwelling Units L - L L L L L Continuing Care Retirement Communities L - L L L L L Employee Housing: 6 or Fewer Employees - - - - - - - 12 or Fewer Employees - - - - - - - Greater than 12 Employees - - - - - - - Fraternities and Sororities C - C C C C C Garage, Yard, & Estate Sales - - - - - - - Guest Quarters - - - - - - - Home Occupations L - L L L L L Interim Ground Floor Residential N(18) - N(18) N N N(18) N(18) (18) (18) Junior Accessory Dwelling Units - - - - - - - Live/Work Quarters L L L L L L L Low Barrier Navigation Center L - L L L L L Movable Tiny Houses - - - - - - - Permanent Supportive Housing L L L L L L L Residential Care Facilities: 6 or Fewer Persons P - P P P P P 7 or More Persons L - L C C L L

Ch. Art. Div.
13 1 5 19

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (3-2026)

Use Categories/Subcategories Zone Zones [See Section 131.0112 for an Designator explanation and descriptions of 1st & 2nd >> CC- the Use Categories, 3rd >> 1- 2- 3- 4- 5- Subcategories, and Separately 1 2 3 1 2 3 4 5 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 4 5 6 4th >> Regulated Uses] Student Housing L - L L L L L Transitional Housing: 6 or Fewer Persons P - P P P P P 7 or More Persons L - L L L L L Watchkeeper Quarters - L - - - - - Institutional Separately Regulated Institutional Uses Airports C C C C C C C Battery Energy Storage Facilities Small Scale (≤ 0.25 acre) L L L L L L L Medium Scale (0.25 acre < 1 acre) C C C C C C C Large Scale (>1 acre) C C C C C C C Botanical Gardens & Arboretums C C C C C C C Cemeteries, Mausoleums, Crematories C C C C C C C Correctional Placement Centers C C C C C C C Educational Facilities: Kindergarten through Grade 12 L L L L L L L Colleges / Universities C C - - - C C Vocational / Trade School P P - - - P P Electric Vehicle Charging Stations L L L L L L L Energy Generation & Distribution Facilities P C C C C C P Exhibit Halls & Convention Facilities C C C C C C C Flood Control Facilities L L L L L L L Historical Buildings Used for Purposes Not C C C C C C C Otherwise Allowed Homeless Facilities: Congregate Meal Facilities C - C C C C C Emergency Shelters L - L L L L L Homeless Day Centers C - C C C C C Hospitals C C C C C C C Intermediate Care Facilities & Nursing L C L L L L L Facilities Interpretive Centers - - - - - - - Museums C C P P P C C

Ch. Art. Div.
13 1 5 20

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (3-2026)

Use Categories/Subcategories Zone Zones [See Section 131.0112 for an Designator explanation and descriptions of 1st & 2nd >> CC- the Use Categories, 3rd >> 1- 2- 3- 4- 5- Subcategories, and Separately 1 2 3 1 2 3 4 5 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 4 5 6 4th >> Regulated Uses] Major Transmission, Relay, or C C C C C C C Communications Switching Stations Placemaking on Private Property L L L L L L L Outdoor Dining on Private Property L L L L L L L Satellite Antennas L L L L L L L Social Service Institutions C C C C C C C Solar Energy Systems L L L L L L L Wireless Communication Facilities See Section 141.0420 Retail Sales Building Supplies & Equipment P(11) P(11) - - - P(11) P(11) Food, Beverages and Groceries P(11) P(11) P(11) P P P(11) P(11) (11) (11) Consumer Goods, Furniture, Appliances, P(11) P(11) P(11) P P P(11) P(11) (11) (11) Equipment Pets & Pet Supplies P(11) P(11) P(11) P P P(11) P(11) (11) (11) Sundries, Pharmaceutical, & Convenience P(11) P(11) P(11) P P P(11) P(11) (11) (11) Sales Wearing Apparel & Accessories P(11) P(11) P(11) P P P(11) P(11) (11) (11) Separately Regulated Retail Sales Uses Agriculture Related Supplies & Equipment - - - - - P P Alcoholic Beverage Outlets L L L L L L L Cannabis Outlets - C - - - - - Farmers’ Markets Weekly Farmers’ Markets L L L L L L L Daily Farmers’ Market Stands L L L L L L L Plant Nurseries P P P P P P P Retail Farms L L L L L L L Retail Tasting Stores L L L L L L L Swap Meets & Other Large Outdoor Retail - - - - - - C Facilities Commercial Services Building Services - - - - - P P Business Support P P P P P P P Eating & Drinking Establishments P(16) P(16) P(16) P P P(16) P(16) (16) (16) Financial Institutions P P P P P P P Funeral & Mortuary Services P P P P P P P Instructional Studios P P P P P P P

Ch. Art. Div.
13 1 5 21

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (3-2026)

Use Categories/Subcategories Zone Zones [See Section 131.0112 for an Designator explanation and descriptions of 1st & 2nd >> CC- the Use Categories, 3rd >> 1- 2- 3- 4- 5- Subcategories, and Separately 1 2 3 1 2 3 4 5 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 4 5 6 4th >> Regulated Uses] Maintenance & Repair P P P P P P P Off-site Services - - - - - P P Personal Services P P P P P P P Radio & Television Studios P P P P P P P

Tasting Rooms -(17) -(17) -(17) - - -(17) P(17) (17) (17) Visitor Accommodations P(21) P(21) P(21) P P P(21) P(21) (21) (21) Separately Regulated Commercial Services Uses Adult Day Care Facility L - L L L L L Adult Entertainment Establishments: Adult Book Store L L L L L L L Adult Cabaret L L L L L L L Adult Drive-In Theater L L L L L L L Adult Mini-Motion Picture Theater L L L L L L L Adult Model Studio L L L L L L L Adult Motel L L L L L L L Adult Motion Picture Theater L L L L L L L Adult Peep Show Theater L L L L L L L Adult Theater L L L L L L L Body Painting Studio L L L - - L L Massage Establishment L L - L L - L Sexual Encounter Establishment L L L L L L L Assembly and Entertainment Uses, Including L L L L L L L Places of Religious Assembly Boarding Kennels/Pet Day Care L L L C C L L Camping Parks C C C L L C C Child Care Facilities: Child Care Centers L - L L L L L Large Family Child Care Homes L - L L L L L Small Family Child Care Homes L - L L L L L Eating and Drinking Establishments with a P P C C C P P Drive-in or Drive-through Component Fairgrounds C C - - - C C Golf Courses, Driving Ranges, and Pitch & C C C C C C C Putt Courses Helicopter Landing Facilities C C C C C C C

Ch. Art. Div.
13 1 5 22

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (3-2026)

Use Categories/Subcategories Zone Zones [See Section 131.0112 for an Designator explanation and descriptions of 1st & 2nd >> CC- the Use Categories, 3rd >> 1- 2- 3- 4- 5- Subcategories, and Separately 1 2 3 1 2 3 4 5 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 4 5 6 4th >> Regulated Uses] Massage Establishments, Specialized Practice L L L L L L L Mobile Food Trucks L(15) L(15) L(15) L L L(15) L(15) (15) (15) Nightclubs & Bars Over 5,000 Square Feet in C C C C C C C Size Parking Facilities as a Primary Use: Permanent Parking Facilities P C P N N P P Temporary Parking Facilities N C N P P N N Private Clubs, Lodges and Fraternal P P P C C P P Organizations Privately Operated, Outdoor Recreation C C C L L C C Facilities Over 40,000 Square Feet in Size(9) Pushcarts on Private Property L L L N N L L Recycling Facilities: Large Collection Facility N N N L L N N Small Collection Facility L L L - - L L Large Construction & Demolition Debris - - - - - - - Recycling Facility Small Construction & Demolition Debris - - - L L - - Recycling Facility Drop-off Facility L L L - - L L Green Materials Composting Facility - - - - - - - Mixed Organic Composting Facility - - - - - - - Large Processing Facility Accepting at - - - - - - - Least 98% of Total Annual Weight of Recyclables from Commercial & Industrial Traffic Large Processing Facility Accepting All - - - - - - - Types of Traffic Small Processing Facility Accepting at - - - L L C C Least 98% of Total Annual Weight of Recyclables From Commercial & Industrial Traffic Small Processing Facility Accepting All - - - - - C C Types of Traffic Reverse Vending Machines L L L L L L L Tire Processing Facility - - - - - - - Sidewalk Cafes, Streetaries, and Active L L L L L L L Sidewalks

Ch. Art. Div.
13 1 5 23

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (3-2026)

Use Categories/Subcategories Zone Zones [See Section 131.0112 for an Designator explanation and descriptions of 1st & 2nd >> CC- the Use Categories, 3rd >> 1- 2- 3- 4- 5- Subcategories, and Separately 1 2 3 1 2 3 4 5 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 4 5 6 4th >> Regulated Uses] Sports Arenas & Stadiums C C C C C C C Theaters that are Outdoor or Over 5,000 C C C C C C C Square Feet in Size Urgent Care Facilities L(20) L(20) L(20) N N L(20) L(20) Veterinary Clinics & Animal Hospitals L L L L L L L Zoological Parks - - - - - - - Offices Business & Professional P P P P P P P Government P P P P P P P Medical, Dental & Health Practitioner P P P P P P P Regional & Corporate Headquarters P P P P P P P Separately Regulated Office Uses Real Estate Sales Offices & Model Homes L - L L L L L Sex Offender Treatment & Counseling L L L L L L L Vehicle & Vehicular Equipment Sales & Service Commercial Vehicle Repair & - - - - - P P Maintenance Commercial Vehicle Sales & Rentals - - - - - P P Personal Vehicle Repair & Maintenance P P - - - P P Personal Vehicle Sales & Rentals P P - - - P P Vehicle Equipment & Supplies Sales & P P - - - P P Rentals Separately Regulated Vehicle & Vehicular Equipment Sales & Service Uses Automobile Service Stations N N N N N N N Outdoor Storage & Display of New, C C - - - C C Unregistered Motor Vehicles as a Primary Use Vehicle Storage Facilities as a Primary Use - - - - - - - Distribution and Storage Equipment & Materials Storage Yards - - - - - - - Moving & Storage Facilities - - - - - P P Distribution Facilities - - - - - - P(8)

Ch. Art. Div.
13 1 5 24

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (3-2026)

Use Categories/Subcategories Zone Zones [See Section 131.0112 for an Designator explanation and descriptions of 1st & 2nd >> CC- the Use Categories, 3rd >> 1- 2- 3- 4- 5- Subcategories, and Separately 1 2 3 1 2 3 4 5 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 4 5 6 4th >> Regulated Uses] Separately Regulated Distribution and Storage Uses Junk Yards - - - - - - - Temporary Construction Storage Yards L L L L L L L Located Off-site Industrial Heavy Manufacturing - - - - - - - Light Manufacturing - - - - - - P(8) Marine Industry - - - - - - - Research & Development P P - - - P P Testing Labs - P - - - - - Trucking & Transportation Terminals - - - - - - - Separately Regulated Industrial Uses Artisan Food and Beverage Producer L L L L L L L Cannabis Production Facilities - - - - - - - Hazardous Waste Research Facility - - - - - - - Hazardous Waste Treatment Facility - - - - - - - Marine Related Uses Within the Coastal C C C C C C C Overlay Zone Newspaper Publishing Plants C C C C C C P Processing & Packaging of Plant Products - - - - - - - & Animal By-products Grown Off- premises Very Heavy Industrial Uses - - - - - - - Wrecking & Dismantling of Motor - - - - - - - Vehicles Signs Allowable Signs P P P P P P P Separately Regulated Signs Uses Community Entry Signs L L L L L L L Neighborhood Identification Signs - - - - - - - Comprehensive Sign Program N N N N N N N Revolving Projecting Signs N N N N N N N Signs with Automatic Changing Copy N N N N N N N Theater Marquees N N N N N N N

Ch. Art. Div.
13 1 5 25

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (3-2026)

Footnotes for Table 131-05B

1 Uses shall not begin operating before 6:00 a.m. or continue operating later than 12:00 midnight in
Commercial-Neighborhood (CN) zones.

2 See Section 131.0540.

3 Only office furniture, appliances, and equipment establishments are permitted. The gross floor area
occupied by these uses shall not exceed 2,500 square feet for each premises.

4 Live entertainment after 12:00 midnight is not permitted in the Commercial-Neighborhood (CN)
zones, unless approval of a deviation is granted with a Planned Development Permit in accordance
with Section 126.0602(b)(1). All uses or activities shall be conducted entirely within an enclosed
building and front onto the primary street with no uses or commercial activities conducted outdoors
in the rear yard adjacent to residentially-zoned properties.

5 The sale of alcoholic beverages is not permitted as a primary use.

6 The gross floor area occupied by these uses shall not exceed 2,500 square feet for each premises.

7 Hiring halls are not permitted.

8 These activities shall be located solely within an enclosed building that does not exceed 7,500 square
feet of gross floor area. Activities that would require a permit from the Hazardous Materials
Management Division of the County of San Diego or from the San Diego Air Pollution Control
District are not permitted.

9 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.

10 This use is not allowed within the Coastal Overlay Zone, except that assembly and entertainment uses
may be incorporated as an accessory use to visitor accommodations.

11 Development of a large retail establishment is subject to Section 143.0302.

12 Within the Coastal Overlay Zone, instructional studios are not permitted on the ground floor in the
CV-1-1 or CV-1-2 zone.

13 Permitted in CV zones where the gross floor area occupied by an individual retail sales establishment
would not exceed 2,500 square feet.

14 Specialized practice massage establishments are permitted only as an accessory use in the CV-1-1
and CV-1-2 zones.

15 This use is permitted as a limited use subject to a mobile food truck permit in accordance with Section 123.0603 and the limited use regulations in Section 141.0612.

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 5 26

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (3-2026)

16 Eating and drinking establishments abutting residential development located in a residential zone may
operate only between 6:00 a.m. and 12:00 midnight. All uses or activities shall be conducted entirely
within an enclosed building and front onto the primary street with no uses or commercial activities
conducted outdoors in the rear yard adjacent to residentially-zoned properties.

17 Tasting rooms are only permitted as an accessory use to a beverage manufacturing plant.

18 This use is not allowed within the Coastal Overlay Zone.

19 See Section 131.0541.

20 Within the beach impact area of the Parking Impact Overlay Zone, off-street parking spaces shall be provided at
a ratio of no less than one off-street parking space for every 250 square feet of gross floor area.

21 Visitor accommodation lodging for uses other than a SRO hotel or SRO hotel room shall not be used for a stay of
more than 30 consecutive days.

22 See Section 141.0422.

(Amended 6-12-2001 by O-18948 N.S.; effective 12-12-2001.) (Amended 3-1-2006 by O-19467 N.S.; effective 8-10-2006.) (Amended 8-10-2004 by O-19308 N.S.; effective 4-11-2007.) (Amended 6-15-2007 by O-19624 N.S.; effective 7-15-2007.) (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 7-6-2011 by O-20065 N.S.; effective 8-5-2011.) (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.) (Retitled to “Use Regulations Table for Commercial Zones” and 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.) (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 9-18-2018 by O-20985 N.S.; effective 10-18-18.) (Amended 10-10-2018 by O-20991 N.S.; effective 11-9-2018.)

Ch. Art. Div.
13 1 5 27

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (3-2026)

[Editors Note: Amendments as adopted by O-20991 N.S. will not apply within the Coastal Overlay Zone until the California Coastal Commission certifies O-20991 N.S. 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-20991-SO.pdf]

(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 1-16-2024 by O-21758 N.S.; effective 3-16-2024.) (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 9-17-2024 by O-21866 N.S.; effective 12-1-2024.) (Amended 12-18-2024 by O-21905 N.S.; effective 2-6-2025.)

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 5 28

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (3-2026)

(a) Within the commercial 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 proposed development in the
commercial 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.)

Ch. Art. Div.
13 1 5 29

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (3-2026)

The following development regulations apply in each of the commercial zones as shown in Tables 131-05C, 131-05D, and 131-05E.

(a) CN Zones

Table 131-05C
Development Regulations for CN Zones

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 5 30

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (3-2026)

Footnotes for Table 131-05C

1 One dwelling unit per specified minimum square footage of lot area as determined in
accordance with Section 113.0222.

2 See Section 131.0543(a)(2).

3 Within the Otay Mesa Community Plan area, the maximum floor area ratio is 0.30.

4 Placemaking on private property shall not be subject to setback regulations, in accordance
with Section 141.0421.

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 5 31

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (3-2026)

(b) CR, CO, CV, and CP Zones

Table 131-05D
Development Regulations for CR, CO, CV, CP Zones

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 5 32

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (3-2026)

Footnotes for Table 131-05D 1 One dwelling unit per specified minimum square footage of lot area as determined in accordance with

2 See section 131.0543(a)(2).

Ch. Art. Div.
13 1 5 33

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (3-2026)

3 See section 131.0543(b).

4 Within the Otay Mesa Community Plan area, the maximum floor area ratio is 0.30.

5 Placemaking on private property shall not be subject to setback or minimum lot coverage regulations,
in accordance with Section 141.0421.

(c) CC Zones

Table 131-05E
Development Regulations for CC Zones

Development Regulation Zone Designator Zones [See Section 131.0530 for 1st & 2nd >> CC- Development Regulations of 3rd >> 1- 2- 4- 5- 1- 2- 4- 5- 1- 2- 4- 5- 2- 3- 4- 5- Commercial Zones] 4th >> 1 2 3 4 Max Permitted Residential Density(1) 1,500 1,500 1,500 1,500

Supplemental Residential Regulations [See Section applies applies applies applies 131.0540] Lot Area Min Lot Area (sq. ft.) 5,000 5,000 5,000 2,500 Max Lot Area (ac) -- -- -- -- Lot Dimensions Min Lot Width (ft) 50 50 100 25 Min Street Frontage (ft) 50 50 100 25 Min Lot Depth (ft) 100 100 -- -- Max Lot Depth (ft) 150 150 -- -- Setback Requirements(5) Min Front Setback (ft) -- -- -- -- Max Front Setback (ft) 100(2,3) 100(2,3) -- 10(2) [See Section 131.0543(a)] Min Side Setback (ft) 10 10 10 10 Optional Side Setback (ft) 0 0 0 0 [See Section 131.0543(b)] Side Setback Abutting Residential [See Section applies applies applies applies 131.0543(c)] Min Street Side Setback (ft) -- -- -- -- Max Street Side Setback (ft) -- -- -- 10(2) [See Section 131.0543(a)] Min Rear Setback (ft) 10 10 10 10 Optional Rear Setback (ft) 0 0 0 0 [See Section 131.0543(b)] Rear Setback Abutting Residential [See Section applies applies applies applies

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 5 34

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (3-2026)

Development Regulation Zone Designator Zones [See Section 131.0530 for 1st & 2nd >> CC- Development Regulations of 3rd >> 1- 2- 4- 5- 1- 2- 4- 5- 1- 2- 4- 5- 2- 3- 4- 5- Commercial Zones] 4th >> 1 2 3 4 131.0543(c)]

Max Structure Height (ft) 30 60 45 30 Min Lot Coverage (%)(5) -- -- -- 35 Max Floor Area Ratio 0.75(4) 2.0(4) 0.75(4) 1.0(4) Floor Area Ratio Bonus for Residential Mixed Use 0.75 -- 0.75 0.5 [See Section 131.0546(a)] Minimum Floor Area Ratio for Residential Use 0.56 -- 0.56 0.25 Floor Area Ratio Bonus for Child Care [See Section applies - applies applies 131.0546(b)] Ground-floor Height [See Section 131.0548] -- applies applies -- Pedestrian Paths [See Section 131.0550] applies applies applies applies Transparency [See Section 131.0552] --- --- --- applies Building Articulation [See Section 131.0554] applies applies applies applies Parking Lot Orientation [See Section 131.0556] applies applies applies applies Refuse and Recyclable Material Storage [See Section applies applies applies applies 142.0805] Loading Dock and Overhead Door Screening applies applies applies applies Regulations [See Section 142.1030] Visibility Area [See Section 113.0273] applies applies applies applies Dwelling Unit Protection Regulations [See Chapter 14, applies applies applies applies Article 3, Division 12]

Development Zone Zones Regulation Designator [See Section 1st & 2nd >> CC 131.0530 for 3rd >> 2- 3- 4- 5- 3- 4- 5- 3- 3- 3- 3- 3- Development 4th >> 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 Regulations of Commercial Zones] Max permitted Residential 1,500 1,000 800 600 400 200 150 Density(1) Supplemental Residential applies applies applies applies applies applies applies Regulations [See Section 131.0540] LotArea Min Lot Area (sq. ft.) 2,500 2,500 2,500 2,500 2,500 2,500 2,500 Max Lot Area (ac) -- -- -- -- -- -- --

Ch. Art. Div.
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San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (3-2026)

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 5 36

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (3-2026)

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 5 37

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (3-2026)

Footnotes for Table 131-05E

1 One dwelling unit per specified minimum square footage of lot area as determined in accordance with

2 See Section 131.0543(a)(2).

3 See Section 131.0543(a)(3).

4 Within the Otay Mesa Community Plan area, the maximum floor area ratio is 0.30.

5 Placemaking on private property shall not be subject to setback or minimum lot coverage
regulations, in accordance with Section 141.0421.

(Amended 6-12-2001 by O-18948 N.S.; effective 12-12-2001.)
(Amended 11-13-08 by O-19799 N.S; effective 12-13-2008.)
(Amended 8-4-2011 by O-20081 N.S.; effective 10-6-2011.)
(Amended 4-11-2014 by O-20361 N.S.; effective 5-18-2014.)
(Retitled from “Development Regulations Tables of Commercial Zones” to
“Development Regulations Tables for Commercial Zones” and amended 7-10-2015
by O-20512 N.S.; effective 8-9-2015.)
(Amended 4-5-2016 by O-20634 N.S.; effective 5-5-2016.)
(Amended 12-1-2016 by O-20752 N.S.; effective 12-31-2016.)
(Amended 5-22-2018 by O-20928 N.S.; effective 6-21-2018.)
(Amended 10-10-2018 by O-20991 N.S.; effective 11-9-2018.)

[Editors Note: Amendments as adopted by O-20991 N.S. will not apply within the
Coastal Overlay Zone until the California Coastal Commission certifies O-20991 N.S.
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-20991-SO.pdf]

(Amended 10-30-2020 by O-21254 N.S.; effective 11-29-2020.)
(Amended 12-9-2020 by O-21273 N.S.; effective 1-8-2021.)
(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 9-17-2024 by O-21866 N.S.; effective 12-1-2024.)

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 5 38

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (3-2026)

The following regulations apply to residential development within commercial zones where indicated in Table 131-05B:

(a) Residential Development as a Permitted Use. Residential development is
permitted in commercial zones only where it is identified in Table 131-05B.

(b) Mixed-Use or Multi-Use Requirement. Residential development is permitted
only when a commercial structure exists on the premises or is a part of the
proposed development.

(c) Ground Floor Restrictions.

(1) Residential use and residential parking are prohibited on the ground
floor in the front half of the lot, except in the CC-3-4, CC-3-5, CC-3-6,
CC-3-7, CC-3-8, CC-3-9, CC-3-10, CC-3-11, CC-4-4, CC-4-5,
CC-4-6, CC-5-4, CC-5-5, CC-5-6, CN-1-6, CO-3-1, and CV-1-2
zones, where these uses are prohibited on the ground floor in the front
30 feet of the lot as shown in Diagram 131-05A. In the CN-1-6 and
CO-3-1 zones, residential use and residential parking are limited to
70 percent of the street frontage along the front property line. Interim
ground floor residential uses may be permitted with a Neighborhood
Use Permit in accordance with Section 141.0309.

Ch. Art. Div.
13 1 5 39

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (3-2026)

Diagram 131-05A

Ground Floor Restriction

Optional
Residential

Optional Required
Residential Commercial

Front
PL 50% of lot PL

Optional
Residential

Optional Required
Residential Commercial

Front
PL 30' of lot PL

(2) Within the Coastal Overlay Zone

(A) Required parking cannot occupy more than 50 percent of the
ground floor in the CV-1-1 or CV-1-2 zones.

(B) Residential uses are not permitted on the ground floor.

(d) Residential Development. Where residential development is permitted, the
development regulations of the RM-1-1, RM-2-5, RM-3-7, RM-3-8, RM-3-9,
RM-4-10, and RM-4-11 zones apply as appropriate according to the
maximum permitted residential density, except that the lot area, lot
dimensions, setback, floor area ratio, and structure height requirements of the
applicable commercial zone apply.
(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 3-1-2006 by O-19467 N.S.; effective 8-10-2006.)
(Amended 6-18-2013 by O-20261 N.S.; effective 7-19-2013.)
(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 3-22-2018 by O-20917 N.S.; effective 4-21-2018.)
(Amended 10-10-2018 by O-20991 N.S.; effective 11-9-2018.)

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 5 40

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (3-2026)

[Editors Note: Amendments as adopted by O-20991 N.S. will not apply within the Coastal Overlay Zone until the California Coastal Commission certifies O-20991 N.S. 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-20991-SO.pdf]

(Amended 8-9-2019 by O-21114 N.S.; effective 9-8-2019.)

[Editors Note: Amendments as adopted by O-21114 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-21114-SO.pdf ]

(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 9-17-2024 by O-21866 N.S.; effective 12-1-2024.)

The following regulations apply to commercial development within commercial office zones where indicated in Table 131-05D:

(a) The gross floor area occupied by retail sales uses shall not exceed 10 percent
of the total gross floor area on each premises, and the gross floor area of each
individual retail establishment shall not exceed 15,000 square feet.

(b) A minimum of 25 percent of gross floor area on each premises shall be
occupied by uses in the office use category or the research and development
use subcategory.

(c) For phased development, all or a portion of the required office or research and
development use shall be constructed prior to or in the same phase as the
development of residential use.
(“Supplemental Commercial Regulations for CO Zones” added 10-10-2018 by
O-20991 N.S.; effective 11-9-2018.)

[Editors Note: Amendments as adopted by O-20991 N.S. will not apply within the
Coastal Overlay Zone until the California Coastal Commission certifies
O-20991 N.S. 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-20991-SO.pdf]

Ch. Art. Div.
13 1 5 41

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (3-2026)

Setback requirements are specified in Tables 131-05C, 131-05D, and 131-05E and are subject to the following exceptions and additional regulations:

(a) Front and Street Side Setback Requirements

(1) Off-street parking in all commercial zones, with the exception of
CC-3-10, and CC-3-11, may be located within the required front yard
and required street side yard adjoining the required landscaped strip
abutting public rights-of-way.

(2) In the CN, CO, CV, and CC zones with a maximum front or street side
setback as shown in Tables 131-05C, 131-05D, and 131-05E, the
maximum setback shall apply to only 70 percent of the street frontage.
The remaining 30 percent is not required to observe the maximum
setback and may be located farther from the property line. See
Diagram 131-05B.

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 5 42

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (3-2026)

Ch. Art. Div.
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San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (3-2026)

(3) In the CC-1-1, CC-1-2, CC-2-1, CC-2-2, CC-4-1, CC-4-2, CC-5-1,
and CC-5-2 zones, the 100-foot maximum front setback does not
apply to lots with more than 75 feet of street frontage if the proposed
development is within 10 feet of the front or street side property line
for at least 30 percent of the street frontage. See Diagram 131-05C.

Diagram 131-05C

Exception to Maximum Setback

Building 60'

Exempt from 200'
100' max setback

100'

48' min
(48' + 60' = 30% of 360')
160' STREE T

NOTE: Example of exemption from 100' m ax setback
• The lot has more than 75' of lineal street frontage
• Buildings are located within 0' -5' of the f ront and street side
property line for 30% of the total linear street f rontage

(b) Minimum Side and Rear Setback

(1) In zones that require a 10-foot minimum side or rear setback and provide the option for a zero-foot side or rear setback as shown in Tables 131-05C, 131-05D, and 131-05E, the structure shall be placed anywhere in between the property line and the minimum 10-foot setback.

(2) The optional side or rear setback is not applicable to commercial
development abutting residentially zoned properties with a permitted
density of less than 15 dwelling units per acre as further described in
Section 131.0543(c).

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 5 44

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (3-2026)

(c) Commercial Development Abutting Residentially Zoned Properties

(1) Commercial development abutting residentially zoned properties with
a permitted density of less than 15 dwelling units per acre shall provide
a 10-foot minimum setback for any side or rear yard that abuts low
density residential zoned property. The structure shall comply with
additional step back requirements in accordance with Section
131.0543(c)(3).

(2) Commercial development abutting residentially zoned properties with
a permitted density of 15 dwelling units or more per acre that provide
no side or rear setback and locate the structure at the property line as
provided for by Section 131.0543(b) shall comply with the following:

(A) Minimum step back for structures placed at the side property
line.

(i) Any portion of the structure exceeding 15 feet in height
shall be stepped back from the side property line 10
feet, or 10 percent of the lot width but not less than 5
feet, whichever is less.

(ii) Each 15 feet in height above 30 feet shall be stepped
back at least 3 feet from the minimum setback of that
portion of the structure immediately below.

(B) Minimum step back for structures placed at the rear property
line.

(i) Any portion of the structure exceeding 15 feet in height shall be stepped back from the rear property line 10 feet, or 10 percent of the lot depth but not less than 5 feet, whichever is less.

(ii) Each 15 feet in height above 30 feet shall be stepped
back at least 3 feet from the minimum setback of that
portion of the structure immediately below.

Ch. Art. Div.
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San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (3-2026)

(3) For side and rear yards, if the structure is set back 10 feet or more
from the property line, each 15 feet in height above 30 feet shall be
stepped back at least 3 feet from the minimum setback of that portion
of the structure immediately below.
(Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.)
(Amended 8-4-2011 by O-20081 N.S.; effective 10-6-2011.)
(Amended 6-18-2013 by O-20261 N.S.; effective 7-19-2013.)
(Amended 2-1-2021 by O-21288 N.S.; effective 3-3-2021.)
(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 9-17-2024 by O-21866 N.S.; effective 12-1-2024.)

Maximum floor area ratio is specified in Tables 131-05C, 131-05D, 131-05E and is subject to the following additional regulations: (a) Floor Area Ratio Bonus for Mixed Use

(1) A floor area ratio bonus is provided in some commercial zones, as
indicated in Tables 131-05C, 131-05D, and 131-05E, for residential
uses that are developed as a part of a mixed-use development. A
minimum required residential floor area ratio is shown in the tables,
and must be applied toward the residential portion of the project. The
remainder of the bonus may be used for either commercial or
residential uses.

(2) If an underground parking structure is provided as part of a mixed- use
development, a floor area ratio bonus shall be provided equal to the
gross floor area ratio of the underground parking structure on the
premises, but not to exceed a floor area ratio of 1.0. The additional
floor area ratio must be applied toward the residential portion of the
development.

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 5 46

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (3-2026)

(b) Floor Area Ratio Bonus for Child Care Facilities

In the CN zones, CR-1-1, CR-2-1, CO-1-2, CO-2-2, CO-3-1, CO-3-2,
CC-1-1, CC-1-2, CC-1-3, CC-3-4, CC-3-5, CC-3-6, CC-3-7, CC-3-8, CC-3-9,
CC-4-1, CC-4-2, CC-4-3, CC-4-4, CC-4-5, CC-4-6, CC-5-1, CC-5-2, CC-5-3,
CC-5-4, CC-5-5, and CC-5-6 zones, a floor area ratio bonus over the
otherwise maximum allowable gross floor area is permitted at the rate of
10 square feet of additional gross floor area for each 1 square foot of gross
floor area devoted to the child care facility to be added to the total area of the
premises when determining the floor area ratio for a development. The area
designated for the child care facility must maintain an ‘E’ occupancy permit
for a minimum of 10 years from the time of construction permit issuance and
must comply with the requirements of Section 141.0606 (Child Care
Facilities).
(Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.)
(Amended 7-10-2015 by O-20512 N.S.; effective 8-9-2015.)
(Amended 1-27-2022 by O-21416 N.S.; effective 2-26-2022.)
(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 ]

Ground-floor height requirements apply to structures with commercial uses on the ground floor. The minimum ground-floor height for structures shall be 13 feet, measured from floor to floor. The ground-floor height requirement shall not apply to development in the Coastal Height Limit Overlay Zone or the Clairemont Mesa Height Limit Overlay Zone. (Added 7-10-2015 by O-20512 N.S.; effective 8-9-2015.) (Amended 3-22-2018 by O-20917 N.S.; effective 4-21-2018.)

Ch. Art. Div.
13 1 5 47

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (3-2026)

Where pedestrian paths are required in Tables 131-05C, 131-05D, or 131-05E, the number, location, and design of the paths shall be in accordance with the following.

(a) Each commercial tenant space shall be accessible from an abutting public
street by a pedestrian path that is at least 4 feet wide as shown on Diagram
131-05D. The path shall be continuous, clear of obstructions, easily
identifiable as a pedestrian path, and visually distinguishable from other
hardscaping. Pedestrian paths shall be separated from vehicular access areas
by wheelstops, curbs, landscaping, or other physical barriers, except when
crossing driveways or aisles.

(b) At least one pedestrian path shall be provided for each property frontage on
an improved public street when at some point along the frontage the
difference in elevation between the sidewalk in the public right-of-way and
the building or vehicle use area closest to the abutting street frontage is less
than 4 feet, as shown in Diagram 131-05D. For a premises with more than
three frontages, only three pedestrian paths are required.

Diagram 131-05D

Pedestrian Paths

Building Building
entrance entrance

Raised pedestrian path
4' min width

Sidewalk
STREE T

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 5 48

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (3-2026)

(c) Building entrances located at the front or street side property line, where the
building setback is zero, qualify as a required pedestrian path.
(Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.)

Where transparency is required by Tables 131-05C, 131-05D, or 131-05E, a minimum of 50 percent of street wall area between 3 and 10 feet above the sidewalk shall be transparent, with clear glass visible into a commercial or residential use. Windows or other transparent materials that provide visibility into a garage or similar area do not count toward the required transparency. See Diagram 131-05E.

Diagram 131-05E Transparency

10' 3'

50% of the area between 3' and 10'shall be transparent

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

Where building articulation is required by Tables 131-05C, 131-05D, or 131-05E, the following regulations apply.

(a) All building elevations fronting a public right-of-way shall be composed of
offsetting planes that provide relief in the building facade by insetting or
projecting surfaces (planes) of the building. The minimum number of
offsetting planes and the minimum horizontal separation between planes is
based on the length of the new building facade, as shown in Table 131-05F.

Ch. Art. Div.
13 1 5 49

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (3-2026)

Table 131-05F Offsetting Plane Requirements

(1) For purposes of this section, the area of a plane may include separate
surfaces that are non-contiguous but which all lie in the same plane.
Each numbered surface of the building shown in Diagram 131-05F
represents a different plane of the building facade. The sum of the
area of each plane labeled with the same number in Diagram 131-05F
is the total area of that plane.

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 5 50

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (3-2026)

Diagram 131-05F

Building Articulation

Roof line
6 min 3:12 slope

3 2 4

2

Cornice 1 4 1
5

22 3 4'
8' Structural cantilever

Pedestrian Entrance

(2) For purposes of this section, an offset is the distance between two
different planes of a building facade measured perpendicularly to the
plane surface (for example, the dimension between plane 1 and 2 in
Diagram 131-05F).

(b) Where a 3-inch or 8-inch offset between planes is required, the total area of
any single offsetting plane shall be more than 5 percent and less than 50
percent of the total building facade area on that frontage.

(c) Where a 3-foot or 5-foot offset between planes is required, the total area of
any single offsetting plane shall be more than 10 percent and less than 50
percent of the total building facade area on that frontage.

(d) The following elements of a building facade may be used to satisfy any one
required building plane:

(1) Roofs with a minimum pitch from eave to peak of 3:12 (3 vertical feet
to 12 horizontal feet) and a minimum area of 10 percent of the building
elevation fronting on a public right-of-way;

Ch. Art. Div.
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San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (3-2026)

(2) Pedestrian entrances with a minimum offset dimension of 4 feet from
the primary plane of the building facade and a minimum width of 8
feet;

(3) A cornice equal to at least 70 percent of the length of the building facade that has a minimum offset of 1 foot, located along the street wall; and (4) Structural cantilevers with combined lengths totaling at least 30 percent of the length of the building facade, with an average offset of at least 2 feet, located along the street wall. Roof eaves do not count as offsetting planes. (Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.)

In the CO-1-1, CO-3-1, CO-3-2, and CO-3-3 zones, parking is not permitted in the required front and street side yard. (Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.) (Amended 7-10-2015 by O-20512 N.S.; effective 8-9-2015.) (Amended 10-10-2018 by O-20991 N.S.; effective 11-9-2018.)

[Editors Note: Amendments as adopted by O-20991 N.S. will not apply within the Coastal Overlay Zone until the California Coastal Commission certifies O-20991 N.S. 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-20991-SO.pdf]

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 5 52

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (3-2026)

In all zones where the parking lot orientation regulation applies, as indicated in Table 131-05D or 131-05E, proposed development with greater than 100,000 square feet of gross floor area and more than one street frontage shall locate no more than 50 percent of the vehicular use area between the longest street frontage providing public access to the premises and a building or buildings.

Diagram 131-05G

Parking Lot Orientation Restriction

Parking Lot Orientation Restriction

Maximum 50% of
Project Parking

(Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.)
(Amended 12-1-2016 by O-20752 N.S.; effective 12-31-2016.)
(Amended 8-9-2019 by O-21114 N.S.; effective 9-8-2019.)

[Editors Note: Amendments as adopted by O-21114 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-21114-SO.pdf ]

Ch. Art. Div.
13 1 5 53

San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (2-2025)

Article 1: Base Zones