San Diego Municipal Code § 131.0448 Accessory Buildings in Residential Zones

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

The purpose of the residential zones is to provide for areas of residential development at various specified densities throughout the City. The residential zones are intended to accommodate a variety of housing types and to encourage the provision of housing for all citizens of San Diego. It is also intended that the residential zones reflect desired development patterns in existing neighborhoods while accommodating the need for future growth. (Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.)

(a) The purpose of the RS zones is to provide appropriate regulations for the development of single dwelling units that accommodate a variety of lot sizes and residential dwelling types and which promote neighborhood quality, character, and livability. It is intended that these zones provide for flexibility in development regulations that allow reasonable use of property while minimizing adverse impacts to adjacent properties.

(b) The RS zones are differentiated based on the minimum lot size and whether the
premises is located in an Urbanized Community or a Planned Urbanized
Community or Proposition A Lands, as follows:

(1) Urbanized Communities

• RS-1-1 requires minimum 40,000-square-foot lots

• RS-1-2 requires minimum 20,000-square-foot lots

• RS-1-3 requires minimum 15,000-square-foot lots

• RS-1-4 requires minimum 10,000-square-foot lots

• RS-1-5 requires minimum 8,000-square-foot lots

• RS-1-6 requires minimum 6,000-square-foot lots

• RS-1-7 requires minimum 5,000-square-foot lots

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

(2) Planned Urbanized Communities or Proposition A Lands

• RS-1-8 requires minimum 40,000-square-foot lots

• RS-1-9 requires minimum 20,000-square-foot lots

• RS-1-10 requires minimum 15,000-square-foot lots

• RS-1-11 requires minimum 10,000-square-foot lots

• RS-1-12 requires minimum 8,000-square-foot lots

• RS-1-13 requires minimum 6,000-square-foot lots

• RS-1-14 requires minimum 5,000-square-foot lots
(Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; amended 10-18-1999 by O-18691 N.S.; effective
1-1-2000.)
(Amended 4-8-2008 by O-19734 N.S; effective 5-8-2008.)

(a) The purpose of the RX zones is to provide for both attached and detached single dwelling units on smaller lots than are required in the RS zones. It is intended that these zones provide an alternative to multiple dwelling unit developments where single dwelling unit developments could be developed at similar densities. The RX zone provides for a wide variety of residential development patterns.

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

• RX-1-1 requires minimum 4,000-square-foot lots
• RX-1-2 requires minimum 3,000-square-foot lots
(Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.)

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 4 2

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

(a) The purpose of the RT zones is to provide for attached, single-dwelling unit residential development on small lots with alley access. It is intended that these zones provide for more urbanized, single-unit living at densities that are historically more typical of multiple-unit zones. The RT zones provide transition opportunities between single-unit neighborhoods and higher density multiple-unit neighborhoods and in some instances may replace multiple-unit zones at similar densities. The RT zones are intended to be applied on subdivided blocks with alleys that are within or close to highly urbanized areas, transit areas, and redevelopment areas.

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

• RT-1-1 requires minimum 3,500-square-foot lots
• RT-1-2 requires minimum 3,000-square-foot lots
• RT-1-3 requires minimum 2,500-square-foot lots
• RT-1-4 requires minimum 2,200-square-foot lots
• RT-1-5 requires minimum 1,600-square-foot lots
(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.)

(a) The purpose of the RM zones is to provide for multiple dwelling unit development at varying densities. The RM zones individually accommodate developments with similar densities and characteristics. Each of the RM zones is intended to establish development criteria that consolidates common development regulations, accommodates specific dwelling types, and responds to locational issues regarding adjacent land uses.

(b) The RM zones are differentiated based on the uses allowed and the permitted
density as follows:

(1) The following zones permit lower density multiple dwelling units with
some characteristics of single dwelling units:

• RM-1-1 permits a maximum density of 1 dwelling unit for each
3,000 square feet of lot area

• RM-1-2 permits a maximum density of 1 dwelling unit for each
2,500 square feet of lot area

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

• RM-1-3 permits a maximum density of 1 dwelling unit for each
2,000 square feet of lot area

(2) The following zones permit medium density multiple dwelling units:

• RM-2-4 permits a maximum density of 1 dwelling unit for each
1,750 square feet of lot area

• RM-2-5 permits a maximum density of 1 dwelling unit for each
1,500 square feet of lot area

• RM-2-6 permits a maximum density of 1 dwelling unit for each
1,250 square feet of lot area

(3) The following zones permit medium density multiple dwelling units
with limited commercial uses:

• RM-3-7 permits a maximum density of 1 dwelling unit for each
1,000 square feet of lot area

• RM-3-8 permits a maximum density of 1 dwelling unit for each
800 square feet of lot area

• RM-3-9 permits a maximum density of 1 dwelling unit for each
600 square feet of lot area

(4) The following zones permit urbanized, high density multiple dwelling
units with limited commercial uses:

• RM-4-10 permits a maximum density of 1 dwelling unit for each 400 square feet of lot area

• RM-4-11 permits a maximum density of 1 dwelling unit for
each 200 square feet of lot area

(5) RM-5-12 permits visitor accommodations or medium density multiple
dwelling units at 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.)

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 4 4

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

On the effective date of Ordinance O-18691, all residential 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 131.0422 apply in the residential zones where indicated in Table 131-04B.

(a) The uses permitted in any residential zone may be further limited or expanded
by the following:

(1) Section 131.0423 (Commercial Use Regulations of Residential Zones);

(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);

(4) Chapter 14, Article 3, Division 13 (Multi-Dwelling Unit and Urban Lot
Split Regulations for Single Family Zones); or

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

(b) Within the residential 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
131-04B. It is unlawful to establish, maintain, or use any premises for any
purpose or activity not listed in this section or Section 131.0422.

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

(d) Accessory uses in the residential zones may be permitted in accordance with

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 4 5

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

(e) Temporary uses may be permitted in the residential 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)
(Amended 10-18-1999 by O-18691 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.)
(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 ]

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 4 6

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

The uses allowed in the residential zones are shown in Table 131-04B.

Legend for Table 131-04B

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 4 7

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

Table 131-04B

Use Regulations Table for Residential Zones

Use Categories/ Zone Zones Subcategories Designator [See Section 131.0112 for 1st & 2nd>> RS- RX- RT- an explanation and descriptions of the Use 3rd >> 1- 1- 1- Categories, Subcategories, 4th >> 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 1 2 1 2 3 4 5 and Separately Regulated Uses] Open Space

Active Recreation P P P

Passive Recreation P P P

Natural Resources Preservation P P P

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 - - -

Commercial Stables - - -

Community Gardens L L L

Equestrian Show & Exhibition - - -
Facilities

Open Air Markets for the Sale of - - - Agriculture-Related Products & Flowers

Residential

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 4 8

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

Use Categories/ Zone Zones Subcategories Designator [See Section 131.0112 for 1st & 2nd>> RS- RX- RT- an explanation and descriptions of the Use 3rd >> 1- 1- 1- Categories, Subcategories, 4th >> 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 1 2 1 2 3 4 5 and Separately Regulated Uses] Mobilehome Parks P(1) P(1) -

Multiple Dwelling Units - - -

Rooming House [See Section - - - 131.0112(a)(3)(A)]

Shopkeeper Units - - -

Single Dwelling Units P(6) P(6) P(6)

Separately Regulated Residential Uses

Accessory Dwelling Units L L L

Continuing Care Retirement Communities C C C
Employee Housing:

6 or Fewer Employees L L L

12 or Fewer Employees - - -

Greater than 12 Employees - - -

Fraternities and Sororities - - -

Garage, Yard, & Estate Sales L L L

Guest Quarters L L -

Home Occupations L L L

Interim Ground Floor Residential - - -

Junior Accessory Dwelling Units L L L

Live/Work Quarters - - -

Low Barrier Navigation Center - - -

Movable Tiny Houses L L L

Permanent Supportive Housing - - -

Residential Care Facilities:

6 or Fewer Persons P P P

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 4 9

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

Use Categories/ Zone Zones Subcategories Designator [See Section 131.0112 for 1st & 2nd>> RS- RX- RT- an explanation and descriptions of the Use 3rd >> 1- 1- 1- Categories, Subcategories, 4th >> 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 1 2 1 2 3 4 5 and Separately Regulated Uses] 7 or More Persons C C C

Student Housing - - -

Transitional Housing:

6 or Fewer Persons P P P

7 or More Persons C C C

Watchkeeper Quarters - - -

Institutional

Separately Regulated Institutional Uses

Airports - - -

Battery Energy Storage Facilities

Small Scale (≤ 0.25 acre) L L L

Medium Scale (0.25 acre < 1 acre) C C C

Large Scale (>1 acre) C C C

Botanical Gardens & Arboretums C C C

Cemeteries, Mausoleums, Crematories - - -

Correctional Placement Centers - - -

Educational Facilities:

Kindergarten through Grade 12 C C C

Colleges / Universities C C C

Vocational / Trade School - - -

Electric Vehicle Charging Stations L L L

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 4 10

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

Use Categories/ Zone Zones Subcategories Designator [See Section 131.0112 for 1st & 2nd>> RS- RX- RT- an explanation and descriptions of the Use 3rd >> 1- 1- 1- Categories, Subcategories, 4th >> 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 1 2 1 2 3 4 5 and Separately Regulated Uses] Energy Generation & Distribution - - - Facilities Exhibit Halls & Convention Facilities - - -

Flood Control Facilities L L L

Historical Buildings Used for Purposes C C C
Not Otherwise Allowed
Homeless Facilities:

Congregate Meal Facilities - - -

Emergency Shelters - - -

Homeless Day Centers - - -

Hospitals - - -

Intermediate Care Facilities & Nursing C C C
Facilities
Interpretive Centers - - -

Museums C C C

Major Transmission, Relay, or - - -
Communications Switching Stations
Placemaking on Private Property L L L

Outdoor Dining on Private Property - - -

Satellite Antennas L L L

Social Service Institutions - - -

Solar Energy Systems L L L

Wireless Communication Facilities See Section 141.0420

Retail Sales

Building Supplies & Equipment - - -

Ch. Art. Div.
13 1 4 11

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

Use Categories/ Zone Zones Subcategories Designator [See Section 131.0112 for 1st & 2nd>> RS- RX- RT- an explanation and descriptions of the Use 3rd >> 1- 1- 1- Categories, Subcategories, 4th >> 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 1 2 1 2 3 4 5 and Separately Regulated Uses] Food, Beverages and Groceries - - -

Consumer Goods, Furniture, - - -
Appliances, Equipment
Pets & Pet Supplies - - -

Sundries, Pharmaceuticals, & - - -
Convenience Sales
Wearing Apparel & Accessories - - -

Separately Regulated Retail Sales Uses

Agriculture Related Supplies & Equipment - - -

Alcoholic Beverage Outlets - - -

Cannabis Outlets - - -

Farmers’ Markets

Weekly Farmers’ Markets - - -

Daily Farmers’ Market Stands - - -

Plant Nurseries - - -

Retail Farms - - -

Retail Tasting Stores - - -

Swap Meets & Other Large Outdoor Retail - - -
Facilities

Commercial Services

Building Services - - -

Business Support - - -

Eating & Drinking Establishments - - -

Financial Institutions - - -

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 4 12

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

Use Categories/ Zone Zones Subcategories Designator [See Section 131.0112 for 1st & 2nd>> RS- RX- RT- an explanation and descriptions of the Use 3rd >> 1- 1- 1- Categories, Subcategories, 4th >> 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 1 2 1 2 3 4 5 and Separately Regulated Uses] Funeral & Mortuary Services - - -

Instructional Studios - - -

Maintenance & Repair - - -

Off-Site Services - - -

Personal Services - - -

Radio & Television Studios - - -

Tasting Rooms - - -

Visitor Accommodations - - -

Separately Regulated Commercial Services Uses

Adult Day Care Facility L L L

Adult Entertainment Establishments:

Adult Book Store - - -

Adult Cabaret - - -

Adult Drive-In Theater - - -

Adult Mini-Motion Picture Theater - - -

Adult Model Studio - - -

Adult Motel - - -

Adult Motion Picture Theater - - -

Adult Peep Show Theater - - -

Adult Theater - - -

Body Painting Studio - - -

Massage Establishment - - -

Ch. Art. Div.
13 1 4 13

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

Use Categories/ Zone Zones Subcategories Designator [See Section 131.0112 for 1st & 2nd>> RS- RX- RT- an explanation and descriptions of the Use 3rd >> 1- 1- 1- Categories, Subcategories, 4th >> 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 1 2 1 2 3 4 5 and Separately Regulated Uses] Sexual Encounter Establishment - - -

Assembly and Entertainment Uses, - - -
Including Places of Religious Assembly
Boarding Kennels / Pet Day Care - - -

Camping Parks - - -

Child Care Facilities:

Child Care Centers C C C

Large Family Child Care Homes L L L

Small Family Child Care Homes L L L

Eating and Drinking Establishments with a - - -
Drive-in or Drive-through Component
Fairgrounds - - -

Golf Courses, Driving Ranges, and Pitch & C C C
Putt Courses
Helicopter Landing Facilities - - -

Massage Establishments, Specialized - - -
Practice

Mobile Food Trucks - - -

Nightclubs & Bars over 5,000 square feet - - -
in size
Parking Facilities as a Primary Use:

Permanent Parking Facilities - - -

Temporary Parking Facilities - - -

Private Clubs, Lodges and Fraternal - - -
Organizations

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 4 14

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

Use Categories/ Zone Zones Subcategories Designator [See Section 131.0112 for 1st & 2nd>> RS- RX- RT- an explanation and descriptions of the Use 3rd >> 1- 1- 1- Categories, Subcategories, 4th >> 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 1 2 1 2 3 4 5 and Separately Regulated Uses] Privately Operated, Outdoor Recreation - - - Facilities Over 40,000 Square Feet in Size(43)

Pushcarts on Private Property - - -

Recycling Facilities:

Large Collection Facility - - -

Small Collection Facility - - -

Large Construction & Demolition - - -
Debris Recycling Facility
Small Construction & Demolition - - -
Debris Recycling Facility
Drop-off Facility - - -

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 - - -

Tire Processing Facility - - -

Sidewalk Cafes, Streetaries, and Active - - -
Sidewalks

Ch. Art. Div.
13 1 4 15

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

Use Categories/ Zone Zones Subcategories Designator [See Section 131.0112 for 1st & 2nd>> RS- RX- RT- an explanation and descriptions of the Use 3rd >> 1- 1- 1- Categories, Subcategories, 4th >> 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 1 2 1 2 3 4 5 and Separately Regulated Uses] Sports Arenas & Stadiums - - -

Theaters that are Outdoor or Over 5,000 - - -
Square Feet in Size
Urgent Care Facilities - - -

Veterinary Clinics & Animal Hospitals - - -

Zoological Parks - - -

Offices

Business & Professional - - -

Government - - -

Medical, Dental, & Health Practitioner - - -

Regional & Corporate Headquarters - - -

Separately Regulated Office Uses

Real Estate Sales Offices & Model Homes L L L

Sex Offender Treatment & Counseling - - -

Vehicle & Vehicular Equipment Sales & Service

Commercial Vehicle Repair & - - -
Maintenance
Commercial Vehicle Sales & Rentals - - -

Personal Vehicle Repair & Maintenance - - -

Personal Vehicle Sales & Rentals - - -

Vehicle Equipment & Supplies Sales & - - -
Rentals

Separately Regulated Vehicle & Vehicular Equipment Sales & Service Uses

Automobile Service Stations - - -

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 4 16

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

Use Categories/ Zone Zones Subcategories Designator [See Section 131.0112 for 1st & 2nd>> RS- RX- RT- an explanation and descriptions of the Use 3rd >> 1- 1- 1- Categories, Subcategories, 4th >> 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 1 2 1 2 3 4 5 and Separately Regulated Uses] Outdoor Storage & Display of New, - - - Unregistered Motor Vehicles as a Primary Use Vehicle Storage Facilities as a Primary - - - Use Distribution and Storage

Equipment & Materials Storage Yards - - -

Moving & Storage Facilities - - -

Distribution Facilities - - -

Separately Regulated Distribution and Storage Uses

Junk Yards - - -

Temporary Construction Storage Yards N N N
Located Off-site

Industrial

Heavy Manufacturing - - -

Light Manufacturing - - -

Marine Industry - - -

Research & Development - - -

Testing Labs - - -

Trucking & Transportation Terminals - - -

Separately Regulated Industrial Uses

Artisan Food and Beverage Producer - - -

Cannabis Production Facilities - - -

Hazardous Waste Research Facility - - -

Ch. Art. Div.
13 1 4 17

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

Use Categories/ Zone Zones Subcategories Designator [See Section 131.0112 for 1st & 2nd>> RS- RX- RT- an explanation and descriptions of the Use 3rd >> 1- 1- 1- Categories, Subcategories, 4th >> 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 1 2 1 2 3 4 5 and Separately Regulated Uses] Hazardous Waste Treatment Facility - - -

Marine Related Uses Within the Coastal - - -
Overlay Zone
Mining and Extractive Industries - - --

Newspaper Publishing Plants - - -

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

Separately Regulated Signs Uses

Community Entry Signs L L L

Neighborhood Identification Signs N N N

Comprehensive Sign Program - - -

Revolving Projecting Signs - - -

Signs with Automatic Changing Copy - - -

Theater Marquees - - -

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 4 18

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

Use Categories/ Zone Zones Subcategories Designator [See Section 131.0112 for 1st & 2nd >> RM- an explanation and descriptions of the Use 3rd >> 1- 2- 3- 4- 5- Categories, Subcategories, 4th >> and Separately Regulated 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 Uses] Open Space

Active Recreation P P P P P

Passive Recreation P P P P P

Natural Resources Preservation P P P P P

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

Commercial Stables - - - - -

Community Gardens L L L L L

Equestrian Show & Exhibition - - - - -
Facilities

Open Air Markets for the Sale of - - - - -
Agriculture- Related Products &
Flowers

Ch. Art. Div.
13 1 4 19

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

Use Categories/ Zone Zones Subcategories Designator [See Section 131.0112 for 1st & 2nd >> RM- an explanation and descriptions of the Use 3rd >> 1- 2- 3- 4- 5- Categories, Subcategories, 4th >> and Separately Regulated 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 Uses] Residential Mobilehome Parks P(2) P(2) P(2) P(2) -

Multiple Dwelling Units P P P P P

Rooming House [See Section P P P P P 131.0112(a)(3)(A)]

ShopkeeperUnits - - P P P Single Dwelling Units (8) (8) (8) (8) (8) P P P P P

Separately Regulated Residential Uses

Accessory Dwelling Units L L L L L

Continuing Care Retirement L L L L L

Communities

Employee Housing:

6 or Fewer Employees L L L L L

12 or Fewer Employees - - - - -

Greater than 12 Employees - - - - -

Fraternities and Sororities C(9) C(9) C(9) C(9) C(9)

Garage, Yard, & Estate Sales L L L L -

Guest Quarters L(6) - - - -

Home Occupations L L L L -

Interim Ground Floor Residential - - - - -

Junior Accessory Dwelling Units - - - - -

Live/Work Quarters - - - - -

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 4 20

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

Use Categories/ Zone Zones Subcategories Designator [See Section 131.0112 for 1st & 2nd >> RM- an explanation and descriptions of the Use 3rd >> 1- 2- 3- 4- 5- Categories, Subcategories, 4th >> and Separately Regulated 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 Uses] Low Barrier Navigation Center - - - - -

Movable Tiny Houses L L L L L

Permanent Supportive Housing L L L L L

Residential Care Facilities:

6 or Fewer Persons P P P P P

7 or More Persons L L L L L

Student Housing L(11) L(11) L(11) L(11) L(11)

Transitional Housing:

6 or Fewer Persons P P P P P

7 or More Persons L L L L L

Watchkeeper Quarters - - - - -

Institutional

Separately Regulated Institutional Uses

Airports - - - - -

Battery Energy Storage Facilities

Small Scale (≤ 0.25 acre) L L L L L

Medium Scale (0.25 acre < 1 acre) C C C C C

Large Scale (>1 acre) C C C C C

Botanical Gardens & Arboretums C C C C -

Cemeteries, Mausoleums, Crematories - - - - -

Correctional Placement Centers - - - - -

Educational Facilities:

Kindergarten through Grade 12 L L L L -

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 4 21

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

Use Categories/ Zone Zones Subcategories Designator [See Section 131.0112 for 1st & 2nd >> RM- an explanation and descriptions of the Use 3rd >> 1- 2- 3- 4- 5- Categories, Subcategories, 4th >> and Separately Regulated 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 Uses] Colleges / Universities C C C C

Vocational / Trade School - - - - -

Electric Vehicle Charging Stations L L L L L

Energy Generation & Distribution - - - C C Facilities

Exhibit Halls & Convention Facilities - - - - -

Flood Control Facilities L L L L -

Historical Buildings Used for Purposes C C C C C Not Otherwise Allowed

Homeless Facilities:

Congregate Meal Facilities - - C C -

Emergency Shelters - - C C -

Homeless Day Centers - - C C -

Hospitals C C C C -

Intermediate Care Facilities & Nursing L L L L L Facilities

Interpretive Centers - - - - -

Museums - - - - -

Major Transmission, Relay, or - - - - - Communications Switching Stations

Placemaking on Private Property L L L L L

Outdoor Dining on Private Property - - - - -

Satellite Antennas L L L L L

Social Service Institutions - - - - -

Solar Energy Systems L L L L L

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 4 22

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

Use Categories/ Zone Zones Subcategories Designator [See Section 131.0112 for 1st & 2nd >> RM- an explanation and descriptions of the Use 3rd >> 1- 2- 3- 4- 5- Categories, Subcategories, 4th >> and Separately Regulated 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 Uses] Wireless Communication Facilities See Section 141.0420

Retail Sales

Building Supplies & Equipment - - - - -

Food, Beverages and Groceries - - P(5) P(5) P(5)

Consumer Goods, Furniture, - - - - - Appliances, Equipment

Pets & Pet Supplies - - - - -

Sundries, Pharmaceuticals, & - - P(5) P(5) P(5) Convenience Sales Wearing Apparel & Accessories - - P(5) P(5) P(5)

Separately Regulated Retail Sales Uses

Agriculture Related Supplies & - - - - - Equipment

Alcoholic Beverage Outlets - - - - -

Cannabis Outlets - - - - -

Farmers’ Markets Weekly Farmers’Markets - - - - - Daily Farmers’ Market Stands - - - - - Plant Nurseries - - - - - Retail Farms - - - - - Retail Tasting Stores - - - - - Swap Meets & Other Large Outdoor - - - - - Retail Facilities

Commercial Services

Building Services - - - - -

Ch. Art. Div.
13 1 4 23

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

Use Categories/ Zone Zones Subcategories Designator [See Section 131.0112 for 1st & 2nd >> RM- an explanation and descriptions of the Use 3rd >> 1- 2- 3- 4- 5- Categories, Subcategories, 4th >> and Separately Regulated 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 Uses] Business Support - - P(5) P(5) P(5) Eating & Drinking Establishments - - P(5) P(5) P(5)

Financial Institutions - - - - -

Funeral & Mortuary Services - - - - - Instructional Studios P(5) P(5) P(5) P(5) P(5)

Maintenance & Repair - - - - -

Off-Site Services - - - - - Personal Services - - P(5) P(5) P(5)

Radio & Television Studios - - - - -

Tasting Rooms - - - - - Visitor Accommodations - - - P(4,10) P(4,10)

Separately Regulated Commercial Services Uses

Adult Day Care Facility L L L L L

Adult Entertainment Establishments:

Adult Book Store - - - - -

Adult Cabaret - - - - -

Adult Drive-In Theater - - - - -

Adult Mini-Motion Picture Theater - - - - -

Adult Model Studio - - - - -

Adult Motel - - - - -

Adult Motion Picture Theater - - - - -

Adult Peep Show Theater - - - - -

Adult Theater - - - - -

Body Painting Studio - - - - -

Massage Establishment - - - - -

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 4 24

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

Use Categories/ Zone Zones Subcategories Designator [See Section 131.0112 for 1st & 2nd >> RM- an explanation and descriptions of the Use 3rd >> 1- 2- 3- 4- 5- Categories, Subcategories, 4th >> and Separately Regulated 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 Uses] Sexual Encounter Establishment - - - - -

Assembly and Entertainment Uses, L L L L L Including Places of Religious Assembly Boarding Kennels/ Pet Day Care - - - - -

Camping Parks - - - - -

Child Care Facilities:

Child Care Centers L L L L L

Large Family Child Care Homes L L L L L

Small Family Child Care Homes L L L L L

Eating and Drinking Establishments - - - - - with a Drive-in or Drive-through Component

Fairgrounds - - - - -

Golf Courses, Driving Ranges, and C C C C - Pitch & Putt Courses

Helicopter Landing Facilities - - - - -

Massage Establishments, Specialized - - - - - Practice Mobile Food Trucks - L(7) L(7) L(7) L(7)

Nightclubs & Bars over 5,000 square - - - - - feet in size

Parking Facilities as a Primary Use:

Permanent Parking Facilities - - - - -

Temporary Parking Facilities - - - - -

Private Clubs, Lodges and Fraternal - - - - P Organizations

Ch. Art. Div.
13 1 4 25

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

Use Categories/ Zone Zones Subcategories Designator [See Section 131.0112 for 1st & 2nd >> RM- an explanation and descriptions of the Use 3rd >> 1- 2- 3- 4- 5- Categories, Subcategories, 4th >> and Separately Regulated 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 Uses] Privately Operated, Outdoor Recreation - - - - - Facilities over 40,000 square feet in size(4)

Pushcarts on Private Property - - - - -

Recycling Facilities:

Large Collection Facility - - - - -

Small Collection Facility - - - - -

Large Construction & Demolition - - - - -
Debris Recycling Facility

Small Construction & Demolition - - - - -
Debris Recycling Facility

Drop-off Facility - - - - -

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 - - - - -

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 4 26

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

Use Categories/ Zone Zones Subcategories Designator [See Section 131.0112 for 1st & 2nd >> RM- an explanation and descriptions of the Use 3rd >> 1- 2- 3- 4- 5- Categories, Subcategories, 4th >> and Separately Regulated 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 Uses] Tire Processing Facility - - - - -

Sidewalk Cafes, Streetaries, and Active - - - - - Sidewalks

Sports Arenas & Stadiums - - - - -

Theaters That Are Outdoor or over - - - - - 5,000 Square Feet in Size

Urgent Care Facility - - - - -

Veterinary Clinics & Animal Hospitals - - - - -

Zoological Parks - - - - -

Offices Business & Professional - - P(5) P(5) P(5)

Government - - - - - Medical, Dental, & Health Practitioner - - P(5) P(5) P(5)

Regional & Corporate Headquarters - - - - -

Separately Regulated Office Uses

Real Estate Sales Offices & Model L L L L - Homes

Sex Offender Treatment & Counseling - - L L -

Vehicle & Vehicular Equipment Sales & Service

Commercial Vehicle Repair & - - - - - Maintenance

Commercial Vehicle Sales & Rentals - - - - -

Personal Vehicle Repair & - - - - - Maintenance Personal Vehicle Sales & Rentals - - - - -

Vehicle Equipment & Supplies Sales & - - - - - Rentals

Ch. Art. Div.
13 1 4 27

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

Use Categories/ Zone Zones Subcategories Designator [See Section 131.0112 for 1st & 2nd >> RM- an explanation and descriptions of the Use 3rd >> 1- 2- 3- 4- 5- Categories, Subcategories, 4th >> and Separately Regulated 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 Uses] Separately Regulated Vehicle & Vehicular Equipment Sales & Service Uses

Automobile Service Stations - - - - -

Outdoor Storage & Display of New, - - - - - Unregistered Motor Vehicles as a Primary Use

Vehicle Storage Facilities as a Primary - - - - - Use Distribution and Storage

Equipment & Materials Storage Yards - - - - -

Moving & Storage Facilities - - - - -

Distribution Facilities - - - - -

Separately Regulated Distribution and Storage Uses

Junk Yards - - - - -

Temporary Construction Storage Yards N N N N - Located Off-site

Industrial

Heavy Manufacturing - - - - -

Light Manufacturing - - - - -

Marine Industry - - - - -

Research & Development - - - - -

Testing Labs - - - - -

Trucking & Transportation Terminals - - - - -

Separately Regulated Industrial Uses

Artisan Food and Beverage Producer - - - - -

Cannabis Production Facilities - - - - -

Hazardous Waste Research Facility - - - - -

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 4 28

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

Use Categories/ Zone Zones Subcategories Designator [See Section 131.0112 for 1st & 2nd >> RM- an explanation and descriptions of the Use 3rd >> 1- 2- 3- 4- 5- Categories, Subcategories, 4th >> and Separately Regulated 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 Uses] Hazardous Waste Treatment Facility - - - - -

Marine Related Uses Within the Coastal - - - - - Overlay Zone

Mining and Extractive Industries - - - - -

Newspaper Publishing Plants - - - - -

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

Separately Regulated Signs Uses

Community Entry Signs L L L L L

Neighborhood Identification Signs N N N N N

Comprehensive Sign Program - - - - -

Revolving Projecting Signs - - - - -

Signs with Automatic Changing Copy - - - - -

Theater Marquees -

Footnotes for Table 131-04B

1 Development of a mobilehome park in any RS or RX zone is subject to Section 143.0302.

2 Development of a mobilehome park in the RM zones is subject to Section 143.0302.

Ch. Art. Div.
13 1 4 29

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

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 Two guest rooms are permitted for visitor accommodations per the specified square footage of lot area required per dwelling unit (maximum permitted density), as indicated on Table 131-04G.

5 See Section 131.0423.

6 A guest quarters or habitable accessory building is permitted in accordance with Section 141.0307 only as an accessory use to a single dwelling unit.

7 Mobile food trucks are permitted by right on the property of a school, university, hospital, religious facility, previously conforming commercial premises in a residential zone, or construction site. Mobile food trucks on any other premises are subject to the limited use regulations set forth in Section 141.0612.

8 Development of a small lot subdivision is permitted in accordance with Section 143.0365.

9 Development of multiple dwelling units permitted in accordance with Sections 141.0305 and 141.0319.

10 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. (Amended 8-10-2004 by O-19308 N.S.; effective 4-11-2007.) (Amended 1-29-2008 by O-19704 N.S.; effective 2-28-2008.) (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.) (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 and O-20483 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 10-15-2015 by O-20567 N.S.; effective 11-14-2015.) (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.)

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 4 30

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

(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 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 ]

The commercial use regulations identified in this Section are applicable to retail sales, commercial services, and office uses where indicated in Table 131-04B.

(a) Medical, dental, and health practitioner offices that do not allow overnight
patients are permitted.

(b) Use is permitted only in a mixed-use development where the density complies
with the applicable land use plan.

(c) Use shall be located only on the ground floor of a mixed-use development.

(d) A maximum of 10 percent of the total gross floor area of all buildings on the
premises may be used for commercial uses subject to the following:

Ch. Art. Div.
13 1 4 31

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

(1) Eating and drinking establishments shall not exceed 2,000 square feet.

(2) All uses or activities shall be conducted entirely within an enclosed
building and front onto the primary street. No uses or activities shall be
conducted outdoors in the rear yard.

(e) Operation shall be limited to hours between 6:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m., except
eating and drinking establishments are limited to hours between 6:00 a.m. and
12:00 a.m.
(Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.)
(Amended 4-23-2008 by O-19739 N.S.; effective 5-23-2008.)
(Amended 6-18-2013 by O-20261 N.S.; effective 7-19-2013.)
(Amended 7-10-2015 by O-20512 N.S.; effective 8-9-2015.)

(Retitled from “Additional Use Regulations for Residential Zones” to “Commercial
Use Regulations for Residential Zones” and 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 ]

(a) Within the residential 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 residential 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 4 32

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

The following development regulations apply in the residential zones as shown in Tables 131-04D, 131-04E, 131-04F, and 131-04G.

(a) RS Zones

Table 131-04D
Development Regulations for RS Zones

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 4 33

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

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 4 34

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

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 4 35

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

Footnotes for Table 131-04D

1 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 6 feet.

2 See Section 131.0443(a)(4).

3 See Section 131.0443(a)(2).
4 See Section 131.0444(b).
5 See Section 131.0446(a).
6 See Section 131.0443(a)(3).

(b) RX Zones

Table 131-04E
Development Regulations for RX Zones

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 4 36

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

Footnote for Table 131-04E

1 If a lot abuts an alley, see Section 131.0442(c).

Ch. Art. Div.
13 1 4 37

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

(c) RT Zones

Table 131-04F
Development Regulations for RT Zones

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 4 38

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

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 4 39

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

(d) RM Zones

Table 131-04G Development Regulations for RM Zones

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 4 40

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

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 4 41

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

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 4 42

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

Footnotes for Table 131-04G 1 One dwelling unit per specified square foot of lot area as determined in accordance with

2 An exception to the maximum permitted density may be permitted in accordance with Chapter 14, Article 3, Division 7 (Affordable Housing Regulations). 3 See Section 131.0443(d)(1). 4 See Section 131.0443(d)(2). 5 See Section 131.0443(d)(3). 6 See Section 131.0443(d)(4). 7 See Section 131.0443(e)(1). 8 See Section 131.0443(e)(2). 9 See Section 131.0443(e)(3). 10 See Section 131.0443(e)(4).

Ch. Art. Div.
13 1 4 43

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

11 See Section 131.0443(f)(1).
12 See Section 131.0443(f)(2).
13 See Section 131.0443(f)(3).
14 See Section 131.0443(g).
15 See Section 131.0461(a).
16 See Section 131.0461(c).
17 See Section 131.0444(e)
18 See Section 131.0444(f).
22 See Section 131.0455(a).
23 See Section 131.0455(b).
24 See Section 131.0455(c).
25 See Section 131.0455(d).
26 See Section 131.0464(d).
27 See Section 131.0464(e).
28 See Section 131.0464(f).
29 With the Peninsula and Ocean Beach community plan areas, the maximum floor area ratio is
0.70.
30 See Section 131.0443(h)(1).
31 See Section 131.0443(h)(2).
32 See Section 131.0443(h)(3).
33 See Section 131.0443(h)(4).
34 See Section 131.0445(c).
35 See Section 131.0446(f).
36 Within the La Jolla, Pacific Beach, and Torrey Pines community plan areas, the maximum
permitted density is one dwelling unit or two guest rooms for each 1,500 square feet of lot
area.
37 Within the Coastal Height Limit Overlay Zone in the Peninsula Community Plan area, the
base zone maximum structure height shall be 30 feet, which shall be determined in accordance
with Section 113.0270(a)(4)(D).
38 With the Peninsula and Ocean Beach community plan areas, the maximum floor area ratio is
1.0.
39 For development within a historic district or property included on the State Historic Resources
Inventory, as defined in Section 5020.1 of the Public Resources Code, or within a site that is
designated as a historical resource consistent with Chapter 12, Article 3, Division 2 of the San
Diego Municipal Code, the maximum floor area ratio shall not increase.

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 4 44

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

(Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000) (Amended 6-19-2000 by O-18814 N.S.) (Amended 8-1-2007 by O-19650 N.S.; effective 8-31-2007.) (Amended 11-13-08 by O-19805 N.S; effective 12-13-2008.) (Amended 11-13-08 by O-19799 N.S; effective 12-13-2008.) (Amended 11-13-2008 by O-19801 N.S.; effective 12-13-2008.) (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 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 8-4-2016 by O-20704 N.S.; effective 8-27-2016.)

[Editors Note: Amendments as adopted by O-20704 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-20704-SO.pdf ]

(Amended 12-1-2016 by O-20755 N.S.; effective 12-18-2016.)
(Amended 2-3-2017 by O-20789 N.S.; effective 3-5-2017.)

[Editors Note: Amendments as adopted by O-20789 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-20789-SO.pdf ]

(Amended 3-22-2018 by O-20916 N.S.; effective 4-21-2018.)
(Amended 3-22-2018 by O-20917 N.S.; effective 4-21-2018.)
(Amended 1-8-2020 by O-21164 N.S.; effective 2-9-2020.)
(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 1-27-2022 by O-21416 N.S.; effective 2-26-2022.)
(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 3-25-2025 by O-21934 N.S.; effective 4-24-2025.)

Ch. Art. Div.
13 1 4 45

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

[Editors Note: Amendments as adopted by O-21934 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-21934-SO.pdf ]

In the RX and RT zones, lots served by alley access may use a portion of the alley to meet the minimum lot area requirement. Up to one-half the width of the abutting alley, not to exceed 10 feet, may be applied toward the total lot area provided the alley area does not exceed 10 percent of the minimum lot area requirement. (Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.)

(a) Exception to Street Frontage in the RS and RM Zones

The minimum street frontage for any lot in the RS and RM zones that fronts
principally on a turnaround or curving street with a centerline radius of less
than 100 feet, is 60 percent of the street frontage specified for the zone in
which the lot is located as shown in Diagram 131-04A.

Diagram 131-04A
Lot Frontage on Curving Street

Frontage
Radius less (60% of zone
than 100' requirement)

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 4 46

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

(b) Exception to Minimum Street Frontage in the RX Zones
The minimum street frontage is 28.5 feet for any lot in the RX zones that
fronts principally on a turnaround or curving street with a centerline radius of
less than 100 feet.

(c) Minimum Lot Dimensions in the RX-1-2 Zone
Where a lot in the RX-1-2 zone abuts an alley and access is taken from the
alley, the indicated minimum lot dimensions are as follows:
Lot Width 25 feet
Street Frontage 25 feet
Lot Width (corner) 25 feet
(Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.)
(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 ]

(a) Setbacks in RS Zones

(1) Front Setbacks in RS Zones

For that portion of a lot that fronts a cul-de-sac, the minimum front
setback may be reduced 5 feet below the requirement specified in
Table 131-04D; however, in no case shall the setback be less than
5 feet.

(2) Rear Setback in the RS-1-1, RS-1-2, RS-1-3, RS-1-4, RS-1-5, RS-1-6,
RS-1-7 Zones

(A) The required rear setback is at least the dimension shown in
Table 141-04D, except as follows:
(i) For lots 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

Ch. Art. Div.
13 1 4 47

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

(ii) For lots greater than 150 feet in depth, the rear setback is
at least 10 percent of the lot depth or the dimension
shown in Table 131-04D, whichever is greater.

(B) Where a rear yard abuts an alley, one-half of the alley width,
but not more than 10 feet, may be counted toward the required
rear setback. In no case shall a rear setback using this provision
be less than 5 feet on the premises. See Diagram 131-04B.

Diagram 131-04B
Rear Yard Abutting Alley

ALLEY
CL
Rear setback One-half of alley width (10' max)

Rear yard 5' min on the premises

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 4 48

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

(C) Where access for parking is taken from the alley and the parking spaces are not parallel to the alley, a minimum distance of 21 feet shall be provided between the edge of the alley public right- of-way opposite the lot and the outside edge of the parking garage or parking stall closest to the alley. See Diagram 131-04C. Diagram 131-04C Parking Adjacent to Alley

ALLEY
CL
21' m in

Rear y ard 5' m in

Garage

ALLEY
CL
21' m in

Rear y ard 5' m in

Park ing
s pac e

Ch. Art. Div.
13 1 4 49

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

(3) Rear Setback in the RS-1-8, RS-1-9, RS-1-10, RS-1-11, RS-1-12, RS-1-
13, and RS-1-14 Zones
For lots that are served by alley access, the rear setback may be reduced
to 4 feet.

(4) Side and Street Side Setbacks in RS Zones

(A) For lots where the lot width is less than the minimum required
lot width of the applicable zone as shown in Table 131-04D,
each side setback shall be 8 percent of the lot width.

(B) Side setback relocation for lots greater than 50 feet in width.

(i) The required side setbacks may be reallocated where the combined dimensions of each side setback would meet or exceed the combined total indicated in Table 131-04D. Once a side setback is reallocated and established at a dimension less than the total indicated in Table 131-04D, all additions to the primary structure shall maintain the established side setback.

(ii) A reallocated side setback shall not be reduced to less
than 4 feet.

(iii) A reallocated street side setback shall not be reduced to
less than 10 feet.

(b) Setbacks in RX Zones

(1) Front Setback in RX Zones

RX zone developments exceeding a total of four dwelling units are
required to provide variable from setbacks as follows:

(A) Front setbacks of 15 feet are required for at least 25 percent of
the total dwelling units, 10-foot front setbacks are required for at
least 25 percent of the total dwelling units, and 20-foot front
setbacks are required for at least 25 percent of the total dwelling
units;
(B) No more than 40 percent of the total number of dwelling units
are permitted to have front setbacks in any one category (i.e.,
10 feet, 15 feet, or 20 feet) described in 131.0443(b)(1)(A); and

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 4 50

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

(C) Variable front setbacks described in this section shall be
established by easement at the time of tentative map approval.
The easements shall be established at the time of zone
application if lots are existing and no map is proposed. If a
Planned Development Permit is processed, the variable setbacks
may be established with the permit in lieu of creating
easements.

(2) Side and Street Side Setbacks in RX Zones

(A) For detached dwellings, the following shall apply:

(i) Minimum side and street side setbacks are at least 3 feet or 10 percent of the lot width, whichever is greater, but is not required to be more than 5 feet;

(ii) No side setback is required for one side only provided
the side with no setback is adjacent to other property
within an RX zone; and

(iii) A separation of at least 10 feet between buildings must
be observed on at least one side of each building.

(B) For attached dwellings, the following shall apply:

(i) No side setback shall be observed on one side, excluding
street side yard;

(ii) The opposite side setback is 6 feet or 20 percent of the
lot width, whichever is greater, but is not required to be
more than 10 feet. This side setback may be 4 feet if a
vertical offset in the structure’s side wall is provided so
that a yard area within the building envelope is provided
that is equal to or exceeds the area projecting into the
required yard. See Diagram 131-04D.

Ch. Art. Div.
13 1 4 51

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

Diagram 131-04D
Side Yard Offset in the RX Zones

Limits of building envelope

Rear yards
8' Standard side setback
4'
Side setback
side setback 8' Building Building
Projection into standard yard

4' Side setback side setback 8' Building Building Projection into standard yard

Yard area provided
within building envelope Zero side
setback

Front yards

40' 40'

CL
STREET

(iii) Each separate dwelling unit shall have its own side yard
wall construction that may abut another dwelling unit at
the common property line. Common wall construction
between two dwelling units is not permitted.

(3) Rear Setback in RX Zones
Rear setbacks shall be at least 10 feet or, if alley access exists, at least
4 feet.

(c) Setbacks in RT Zones
(1) Front Setback in RT Zones
(A) The minimum front setback is 10 percent of the depth of the lot,
and in no case shall be less than 5 feet or more than 15 feet. At
least some portion of the building facade shall be located within
1 foot of the setback line.
(B) 50 percent of the front building facade may encroach into the
required front yard in accordance with Section 131.0461(b)
provided that all supplemental requirements are met as set forth
in Section 131.0464(c).

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 4 52

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

(2) Side Setbacks in RT Zones

(A) Side yards are not permitted except for lightwells and court
yards, as shown in Diagram 131-04E, which shall be a
minimum of 6 feet by 10 feet.

Diagram 131-04E
Lightwells and Courtyards in the RT Zones

Zero s ide s etbac k Building

6' min

Lightw ell /C ourty ard 10' min Zero s ide s etbac k

CL
STR EET

(B) Each separate dwelling unit shall have its own side yard wall
construction that may abut another dwelling unit at the common
property line. Common wall construction between two dwelling
units is not permitted.

(C) A minimum side setback of 3 feet is required adjacent to any lot
that is not within an RT zone.

(D) Windows or doors adjacent to side setbacks are only permitted
when the distance between the window or door and the property
line is a minimum of 5 feet or when the side setback is a street
side yard.

(d) Setbacks in RM-1-1, RM-1-2, RM-1-3 Zones

(1) Front Setback in RM-1-1, RM-1-2, RM-1-3 Zones

Ch. Art. Div.
13 1 4 53

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

(A) Up to 50 percent of the width of the building envelope may
observe the minimum 15-foot front setback, provided the
remaining percentage of the building envelope width observes
the standard 20-foot setback. This may occur on a
floor-by-floor basis. See Diagram 131-04F.

Diagram 131-04F
Standard/Minimum Front Setback

CL 20' Standard
front setback

STREET Front yard
Width of
Building envelope building
On a floor by floor basis, a max of envelope
50% of the width of the building envelope
may observe the min front setback

15" Min
front setback

Building

of Max envelopebuilding50% Building width min envelope setback standard width setback STREET

CL

(B) For any portion of a lot that fronts on a curving street with a
centerline radius of less than 100 feet, the standard setback is 10
feet, and the minimum setback is 5 feet.

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 4 54

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

(2) Side Setbacks in RM-1-1, RM-1-2, RM-1-3 Zones

(A) Up to 50 percent of the length of the building envelope on one
side of the premises may observe the minimum 5-foot side
setback, provided the remaining percentage of the building
envelope length observes at least the standard side setback of 8
feet or 10 percent of the lot width, whichever is greater.

One hundred percent of the length of the building envelope on
the opposite side may observe the minimum side setback of 5
feet. See Diagram 131-04G.

Diagram 131-04G
Standard/Minimum Side Setback

Rear setback

5' min side 8' or 10% of lot width
setback (standard side setback)

5' Min side setback

Length of
building envelope Building

Min side setback for no more than 50% of length of building envelope

Standard front setback
Front yard

CL
STREET

(B) Exception: The minimum and standard side setbacks are at least
4 feet for a premises that is less than 50 feet but more than 25
feet wide. The minimum and standard side setbacks are at least
3 feet for a premises that is 25 feet wide or less.

(C) Where there is an existing development on the premises with the
side setback less than the current requirement and the building
is to be maintained, new development may observe the existing
side setback for 50 percent of the length of the building
envelope on a floor-by-floor basis.

Ch. Art. Div.
13 1 4 55

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

(3) Street Side Setback in RM-1-1, RM-1-2, RM-1-3 Zones

The minimum street side setback is at least 10 feet or 10 percent of the
premises width, whichever is greater.

(4) Rear Setback in RM-1-1, RM-1-2, RM-1-3 Zones

Where a rear yard abuts an alley, one-half of the alley width, but not
more than 10 feet, may be counted toward the required rear yard. In no
case shall a rear setback using this provision be less than 5 feet.

(e) Setbacks in RM-2-4, RM-2-5, RM-2-6 Zones

(1) Front Setback in RM-2-4, RM-2-5, RM-2-6 Zones

(A) Up to 50 percent of the width of the building envelope may observe the minimum 15-foot front setback, provided the remaining percentage of the building envelope width observes the standard 20-foot setback. This may occur on a floor-by- floor basis.

(B) For any portion of a lot that fronts on a curving street with a
centerline radius of less than 100 feet, the standard front setback
is 10 feet and the minimum setback is 5 feet.

(2) Side Setbacks in RM-2-4, RM-2-5, RM-2-6 Zones

(A) The minimum side setback is 5 feet or 10 percent of the
premises width, whichever is greater.

(B) Exception: The minimum side setback is 4 feet for a premises
that is 40 to 50 feet in width.

(C) 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.

(3) Street Side Setback in RM-2-4, RM-2-5, RM-2-6 Zones

(A) The minimum street side setback is 10 feet or 10 percent of the
premises width, whichever is greater.

(B) Street Side Yard Encroachment Option. Up to 50 percent of the
building facade may encroach up to 5 feet into the required
street side yard. The encroachment may occur on a floor-by-
floor basis. See Diagram 131-04H.

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 4 56

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

Diagram 131-04H
Street Side Yard Encroachment Option

CL

Setback lines

Front
yard Building
STREET

5' Maximum
Street side setback:
encrochment Street side yard 10' or 10% of lot width

Max 50% of length
of building facade

Length of building facade

CL
STREET

(4) Rear Setback in RM-2-4, RM-2-5, RM-2-6 Zones

Where a rear yard abuts an alley, one-half of the alley width, but not more than 10 feet, may be counted toward the required rear yard. In no case shall a rear setback using this provision be less than 5 feet.

(f) Setbacks in RM-3-7, RM-3-8, RM-3-9 Zones

(1) Front Setback in RM-3-7, RM-3-8, RM-3-9 Zones

(A) Up to 50 percent of the width of the building envelope may
observe the minimum 10-foot front setback, provided the
remaining percentage of the building envelope width observes
the standard 20-foot setback. This may occur on a
floor-by-floor basis.

(B) For any portion of a lot that fronts on a curving street with a
centerline radius of less than 100 feet, the standard front setback
is 10 feet and the minimum setback is 5 feet.

(2) Side Setbacks in RM-3-7, RM-3-8, RM-3-9 Zones

(A) The minimum side setback is 5 feet or 10 percent of the
premises width, whichever is greater.

Ch. Art. Div.
13 1 4 57

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

(B) Up to 50 percent of the length of the building adjacent to the side
yard may be placed anywhere between the side setback and the
property line, provided that no encroaching element shall exceed
30 feet in length, that encroaching elements are separated by at
least 6 feet, and that each dwelling unit has access to either the
front or rear of the lot. See Diagram 131-04I.

Diagram 131-04I
Zero Side Setback Option

CL

Front Rear
yard Building yard
STREET
Side yard 5' Side setback

'A' 6' 'B'
30' max min 30' max

Length of building at side yard

NOTE: The total length of 'A' plus 'B' shall not exceed 50% of the length of the building at side yard.

(3) Street Side Setback in RM-3-7, RM-3-8, RM-3-9 Zones

(A) The minimum street side setback is 10 feet or 10 percent of the
premises width, whichever is greater.

(B) Up to 50 percent of the building facade may encroach up to 5
feet into the required street side yard.

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 4 58

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

(g) Setbacks in RM-4-10, RM-4-11 Zones

(1) Two contiguous yards must observe setbacks of at least 15 feet on the
northerly and easterly elevations, as shown in Diagram 131-04J.

Diagram 131-04J
Contiguous Yard Requirement

N Northerly property line

15'
setback

15'
setback

Easterly
property line

No setbacks
required along
remaining
two property lines

(2) The side yard and rear yard shall equal the requirements of the adjacent
residential zone if that zone is more restrictive.

(h) Setback Requirements in the RM-5-12 Zone

(1) Front Setback in the RM-5-12 Zone

The minimum front setback is 10 feet for any portion of a lot that fronts
on a turnaround or on a curving street with a centerline radius of less
than 100 feet.

(2) Side Setback in the RM-5-12 Zone

The minimum side setback specified in Table 131-04G shall be
increased 3 feet for each 12 feet of structure height over 24 feet.

(3) Street Side Setback in the RM-5-12 Zone

The minimum street side setback is as indicated in Table 131-04G,
except as follows:

Ch. Art. Div.
13 1 4 59

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

(A) 9 feet for any lot that is at least 45 but less than 50 feet wide;

(B) 8 feet for any lot that is at least 40 but less than 45 feet wide;

(C) 7 feet for any lot that is at least 35 but less than 40 feet wide;

(D) 6 feet for any lot that is at least 30 but less than 35 feet wide;
and

(E) 5 feet for any lot that is less than 30 feet wide.

(4) Rear Setback in the RM-5-12 Zone

The rear setback specified in Table 131-04G shall be increased 3 feet
for each 12 feet of structure height over 24 feet.
(Amended 6-12-2001 by O-18948 N.S.; effective 12-12-2001.)
(Amended 11-28-2005 by O-19444 N.S.; effective 2-9-2006.)
(Amended 3-1-2006 by O-19468 N.S.; effective 4-1-2006.)
(Amended 11-13-2008 by O-19801 N.S.; effective 12-13-2008.)
(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 7-2-2013 by O-20268 N.S.; effective 8-2-2013.)
(Amended 7-10-2015 by O-20512 N.S.; effective 8-9-2015.)
(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 ]

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 4 60

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

Zones (a) Maximum structure height shall not exceed the height of the angled building envelope plane, which connects the maximum structure height adjacent to the setback and the overall maximum structure height as determined by the underlying base zone and the requirements below. Encroachments beyond the building envelope are subject to the requirements in Section 131.0461. (b) The angle of the building envelope plane is based on lot width as established in Table 131-04H.

Table 131-04H

Required Angle Building Envelope Plane

Footnote for Table 131-04H ¹ The angled planes are measured from the vertical axis inward.

(c) The maximum structure height requirements for the RS-1-1, RS-1-2, RS-1-3,
RS-1-4, RS-1-5, RS-1-6, RS-1-7, and RX zones are stated in Tables 131-04D
and 131-04E. The angled building envelope plane shall be required adjacent to
required side yards. Angled building envelope planes are also required adjacent
to front and street side yards in cases where the maximum structure height
exceeds 27 feet. The angled building envelope plane shall be measured in
accordance with Diagram 131-04L.

Ch. Art. Div.
13 1 4 61

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

Diagram 131-04L
Angled Building Envelope Planes in RS, RX, and RT Zones

Front, side, or street side property line

Outline of building envelope
cross section

Angle

Maximum Building Envelope
structure height
24' (RS & RX
zones)
27' (RT zone)

Required front, side, or street side setback

(d) The maximum structure height requirements for RT zones are stated in Table
131-04F. For buildings with a slab foundation, the maximum permitted
structure height is 21 feet for one- and two-story structures or 31 feet for three-
story structures. For buildings with a conventional raised floor, the maximum
permitted structure height is 25 feet for one- and two-story structures or 35 feet
for three-story structures. For buildings with sloped roofs with at least a 3:12
pitch (3 vertical feet to 12 horizontal feet), the maximum permitted structure
height is increased by 5 feet. In all cases, unless otherwise excepted, the height
of the building envelope above 27 feet adjacent to the front setback line is
established by a 30-degree angled building envelope plane slanting inward to
the maximum permitted structure height. The angled building envelope planes
shall be measured in accordance with Diagram 131-04L.

(e) The maximum structure height requirements for the RM-1-1, RM-1-2, and
RM-1-3 zones are stated in Table 131-04G. The angled building envelope
plane requirements apply as follows:

(1) At the front setback line, the height of the building envelope above 19
feet at the minimum setback and 24 feet at the standard setback, is
established by a 45-degree angled building envelope plan sloping
inward to the maximum permitted 30-foot structure height limit, as
shown in Diagram 131-04M.

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 4 62

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

Diagram 131-04M
Angled Building Envelope at Front Setback

Front property line Outline of building envelope
cross section

450
angle

30' Building Envelope

24'
19'

Min front setback Standard front setback

(2) At the side setback line, the height of the building envelope above 24
feet in height is established by a 45-degree building envelope plane
sloping inward to the maximum permitted 30-foot structure height.

(f) The maximum structure height requirements for the RM-2-4, RM-2-5, and
RM-2-6 zones are stated in Table 131-04G. At the side setback lines, the
maximum height of the building envelope above 30 feet in height is established
by a 60-degree angled building envelope plane sloping inward from the side
setback lines to the maximum permitted 40-foot structure height.
(Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.)
(Amended 11-28-2005 by O-19444 N.S.; effective 2-9-2006.)
(Amended 11-13-2008 by O-19801 N.S.; effective 12-13-2008.)

Ch. Art. Div.
13 1 4 63

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

(a) In the RS-1-1, RS-1-2, RS-1-3, RS-1-4, RS-1-5, RS-1-6, and RS-1-7 zones and in small lot subdivisions in accordance with Section 143.0365, the maximum permitted lot coverage is 50 percent on any premises where more than 50 percent of the premises contains steep hillsides.

(b) In the RT zones, garages of 525 square feet of floor area or less are not
included in the calculation of lot coverage. Bay windows and turrets, when
built at ground level, count as coverage. Roofed entryways (porches) and
balconies with at least two elevations that are a minimum of 40 percent open
do not count as coverage.

(c) In the RM-5-12 zone, maximum lot coverage is 50 percent for interior lots and
60 percent for corner lots, except that maximum lot coverage for any premises
that has a building exceeding 4 stories or 48 feet in height shall be reduced in
accordance with Table 131-04I.

Table 131-04I
Lot Coverage in RM-5-12 Zone

(Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.) (Amended 10-18-1999 by O-18691 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.) (Amended 5-5-2015 by O-20483 N.S.; effective 6-4-2015.) (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 ]

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 4 64

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

(a) Floor Area Ratio for the RS-1-2, RS-1-3, RS-1-4, RS-1-5, RS-1-6, RS-1-7 Zones

(1) The maximum permitted floor area ratio is based on the lot area in
accordance with Table 131-04J:

Table 131-04J
Maximum Floor Area Ratio in RS-1-2, RS-1-3, RS-1-4, RS-1-5, RS-1-6, RS-1-7 Zones

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 4 65

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

(2) For lots that exceed the minimum lot area required by the applicable
zone and where more than 50 percent of the lot area contains steep
hillsides, the maximum permitted floor area ratio shall be based on the
following:
(A) The area of the site not containing steep hillsides or the
minimum lot area required by the applicable zone, whichever is
greater; plus

(B) 25 percent of the remaining lot area not included in (A), above.

(b) In the RS-1-8, RS-1-9, RS-1-10, RS-1-11, RS-1-12, RS-1-13, and RS-1-14
zones, up to 400 square feet of garage area shall be excluded from the
calculation of gross floor area.

(c) In the RX zone, the calculation of floor area ratio shall be based on the
minimum lot area of the zone, or the area of the lot with a gradient less than
10 percent, whichever is greater.

(d) In the RT zones, up to 525 square feet of garage area may be excluded from the
calculation of gross floor area.

(e) In the RM zones, on lots over 10,000 square feet, 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 if a child care facility is 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).

(f) In the RM-5-12 zone, the maximum permitted floor area ratio for buildings
exceeding 4 stories or 48 feet of structure height shall be increased in
accordance with Table 131-04K.

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 4 66

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

Table 131-04K

Floor Area Ratio in the RM-5-12 Zone

(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 7-10-2015 by O-20512 N.S.; effective 8-9-2015.) (Amended 3-22-2018 by O-20916 N.S.; effective 4-21-2018.) (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 ]

Paving and hardscape on single dwelling unit lots located in the RS zones shall be minimized as follows:

(a) The required front yard shall be limited to a maximum of 60 percent paving
and hardscape.

(b) Within the required street yard, paving and hardscape shall be limited to:

(1) A driveway with direct vehicular access to required off-street parking
spaces located outside of the required setback in accordance with
Section 142.0521;

Ch. Art. Div.
13 1 4 67

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

(2) A walkway to facilitate pedestrian access to the dwelling unit; and

(3) Any decorative paving or hardscape that is not designed for vehicular
access.

(c) In order to maintain the character of the RS zone, paving and hardscape for
vehicular use on lots less than 10,000 square feet, shall be further limited to
off-street parking spaces for a maximum of 4 vehicles. Additional paving and
hardscape shall be permitted for non-vehicular use or where necessary to
provide vehicular access to garage parking.
(Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.)
(Amended 08-1-2007 by O-19650 N.S.; effective 08-31-2007.)
(Retitled from “Maximum Paving and Hardscape in Residential Zones” to “Maximum
Paving and Hardscape in RS Zones” and amended 2-3-2017 by O-20789 N.S.;
effective 3-5-2017.)

[Editors Note: Amendments as adopted by O-20789 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-20789-SO.pdf ]

(Amended 1-8-2020 by O-21164 N.S.; effective 2-9-2020.)

This section is intended to clarify the regulations applicable to non-habitable accessory buildings in residential zones.

(a) Multiple accessory buildings are permitted on a premises. However, the square
footage of all non-habitable accessory buildings excluding garages cannot
exceed 25 percent of the allowable gross floor area of the premises.

(b) Non-habitable accessory buildings or garages may not be used for living or
sleeping purposes. A non-habitable accessory building or garage may have
electrical, gas, water, and sewer connections to provide the following activities:

(1) Lighting, washing machines, dryers, laundry tubs, and hot water heater;

(2) A one-half bathroom, limited to a water closet and a lavatory sink; and

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 4 68

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

(3) A shower, provided the property owner signs an agreement recorded
with the County Recorder and processed through the City Manager
stating that the building will not be used for living or sleeping purposes.

(c) Non-habitable accessory buildings or garages may encroach into required
yards subject to the requirements in Section 131.0461.

(d) Habitable accessory buildings may be permitted as follows:

(1) As an accessory building to a single dwelling unit in accordance with
Sections 141.0302 or 141.0307; or

(2) As an accessory building to a multiple dwelling unit development to
provide common area facilities for the property owners, tenants, and
their guests in accordance with the underlying base zone.

(Retitled from “Accessory Uses and Structures in Residential Zones” and amended
1-9-2001 by O-18910 N.S.; effective 8-8-2001.)
(Amended 3-01-2006 by O-19467 N.S.; effective 8-10-2006.)
(Amended 11-13-2008 by O-19801 N.S.; effective 12-13-2008.)
(Retitled from “Accessory Structures in Residential Zones” to “Accessory Buildings in
Residential Zone and 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 8-4-2016 by O-20704 N.S.; effective 8-27-2016.)

[Editors Note: Amendments as adopted by O-20704 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-20704-SO.pdf ]

(a) Garages within an existing embankment in the RS and RX Zones, and in small lot subdivisions in accordance with Section 143.0365.

Attached or detached garages, not exceeding 12 feet in height, including
parapets and handrails, may encroach into the front and street side yards, as
shown in Diagram 131-04N, subject to the following conditions:

(1) The building is used only for required parking and incidental storage
related to residential use;

Ch. Art. Div.
13 1 4 69

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

(2) The building is located entirely within a pre-existing embankment at
least 6 feet high, which shall be maintained. The embankment must
have an average height of at least 6 feet within the area where the
building is proposed.

(3) The building facade is set back a minimum of 6 feet from the property
line;

(4) The building elevation facing the street is no more than 24 feet wide;

(5) No garage door opens so that it projects into the public right-of-way at
any time;

(6) In the RS zones the building does not exceed 525 square feet in gross
floor area;

(7) In the RX zone the building does not exceed 400 square feet in gross
floor area; and

(8) If the building is constructed in conjunction with a retaining wall that
will be located within the required front yard, the retaining wall must
be flared outward from the corners of the building at a minimum
45-degree angle to provide a visibility area.

Diagram 131-04N
Garage Within Existing

CL
Front
Retaining wall property line

Slope

45 0 min angle Grade

24' max Garage Garage Slope 12' max

Slope Retaining Wall Retaining wall

6' 6'
min min

Plan View Section View

Embankment

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 4 70

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

(b) Garages in RT Zones

(1) Two off-street parking spaces are required, except for residential or
commercial development in a transit priority area where any portion of
the premises is located within a transit priority area. Off-street parking
spaces provided in a transit priority area are exempt from the
unbundled parking requirement in Section 142.0528(b)(1). An enclosed
and detached one-car garage is required except as otherwise provided in
this section. The second off-street parking may be provided in an
enclosed and detached garage or an unenclosed space located consistent
with the garage location requirements in Section 131.0449(b)(5).

(2) A two-car garage may provide parking in tandem spaces.

(3) Access to required parking shall be from an alley abutting the premises.
In lieu of public alleys in new subdivisions, private easements may be
used to provide access for abutting residents and authorized service
vehicles only.

(4) The garage shall provide at least one 9-foot by 20-foot off-street
parking space perpendicular to, and directly accessible from, the
abutting alley.

(5) The garage shall be located within the rear 30 feet of the lot, except to
the extent that it is necessary to accommodate a 21-foot distance
between the edge of the garage and the edge of the alley opposite the
lot.

(6) The detached garage shall not exceed 12 feet in height.

(7) The garage may have a roof deck with open or solid safety fencing not to exceed 42 inches in height.

(8) The garage shall abut one interior property line.

(9) The garage may be attached to the dwelling unit, subject to the
following conditions:

(A) A court yard with minimum dimensions of 10 feet by 10 feet
must be provided within the rear 50 percent of the lot, as shown
in Diagram 131-04O, or within the dwelling unit. The court yard
shall extend the full height of the structure and must be at least
75 percent open to sunlight;

Ch. Art. Div.
13 1 4 71

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

Diagram 131-04O
Courtyard Requirement with Attached Garage

3' rear
setback
CL

ALLEY Garage Building
Building Court min
yard
10'

10' min

(B) The vehicle entry facade of the garage may not be more than 24
feet from the rear property line; and

(C) The garage is subject to the same height limits as the dwelling
unit.

(10) Habitable space may be located above an attached garage.

(Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000; amended 6-19-2000 by O-18814 N.S.) (Amended 11-13-2008 by O-19801 N.S.; effective 12-13-2008.) (Amended 5-5-2015 by O-20483 N.S.; effective 6-4-2015) (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 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 ]

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 4 72

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

Detached dwellings shall maintain a minimum distance of 6 feet between dwellings and 3 feet between any dwelling and any detached, nonhabitable accessory building located on the same premises. (Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.)

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 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 3-22-2018 by O-20917 N.S.; effective 4-21-2018.)

Subdivisions within the RT zones shall include a landscaped parkway between the street and the parallel public sidewalk that is at least 4 feet, 6 inches wide. (Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.)

In the RM-1-1 and RM-1-2 zones within urbanized communities, lots that are consolidated or otherwise joined together to accommodate development are subject to the following:

(a) Any building on a consolidated premises may cross only one previous property
line, as shown in Diagram 131-04P;

(b) If the consolidation results in a total street frontage exceeding 60 feet, the
number of dwelling units permitted within any single structure shall not exceed
the number of dwelling units that would have been permitted on the largest
premises before the consolidation, as shown in Diagram 131-04P;

Ch. Art. Div.
13 1 4 73

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

Diagram 131-04P
Buildings on Consolidated Lots

12'-6" (Side setback is 10% of width of consolidated premises)

Building 2
(2 Units)
NOTE: Each building may cross
only one pre-existing
property line
Pre-existing
property lines NOTE: The max number of units in any one
100' building may not exceed the number of
units permitted on a single 50' X 100' lot
Building 1 (the largest pre-existing premises).
(2 Units)
Building 3
(1 Unit)

' 50 50' 25'
125' max
(width of consolidated premises)
CL
STREET

(c) If the depth of the lots to be consolidated is greater than 139 feet, only 139 feet shall be used in the calculation to determine the number of dwelling units permitted; and

(d) Within the front 50 percent of the consolidated premises, a minimum 3-foot
offset in the front facade shall be required for any structure where the
dimension most parallel to the street exceeds 1.5 times the width of the
permitted building envelope of the largest lot existing before consolidation. See
Diagram 131-04Q.

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 4 74

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

Diagram 131-04Q
Lot Consolidation Offset Requirement

CL of premises
'B' exceeds 1.5 X 'A'

Front 50%
Building of premises

3' Offset
required

'A'
Width of
building envelope
of largest
pre-existing premises
125' max
(width of consolidated premises)

NOTE: No offset required if 'B' is less than or equal to 1.5 X 'A'.

CL
STREET

(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.)
(Amended 3-22-2018 by O-20917 N.S.; effective 4-21-2018.)

(a) In the RM-1-1, RM-1-2, and RM-1-3 zones, at least 60 square feet of usable, private, exterior open space abutting each dwelling unit shall be provided with a minimum dimension of 6 feet in any direction. The open space may be located in required yard areas, but shall be no closer than 9 feet to the front or rear property lines, and no closer than 4 feet to the side property lines. See Diagram 131-04R.

Ch. Art. Div.
13 1 4 75

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

Diagram 131-04R
Private Exterior Open Space

Building wall

Required setback

60 sq ft min
exterior usable
open space
Building

Distance to
6' X 6' Square shall property line
fit within total area of 4' min (side yard)
exterior usable open space 9' min (front or
rear yard)

Max 50% of exterior
usable open space may
encroach into required
yard

(b) In the RM-2-4, RM-2-5, and RM-2-6 zones, at least 75 percent of the dwelling
units shall be provided with at least 60 square feet of usable, private, exterior
open space abutting the unit with a minimum dimension of 6 feet. The open
space may be located in required front and rear yards, but shall be no closer
than 9 feet to the front property line.

(c) In the RM-3-7, RM-3-8, and RM-3-9 zones, at least 75 percent of the dwelling
units shall be provided with at least 60 square feet of usable, private, exterior
open space abutting the unit with a minimum dimension of 6 feet. The open
space may be located in the required front yard, but shall be no closer than 9
feet to the front property line.

(d) In the RM-4-10, RM-4-11, and RM-5-12 zones, at least 50 square feet of
usable, private, exterior open space abutting each dwelling unit shall be
provided with a minimum dimension of 4 feet.

(e) In the RM-3-7, RM-3-8, RM-3-9, RM-4-10, RM-4-11, and RM-5-12 zones,
where private exterior open space is not provided at the quantity required in a
development pursuant to Section 131.0455(c)-(d), an equal amount of common
exterior open space in addition to the requirements of Section 131.0456, which
applies to premises with more than four dwelling units, shall be provided as
alternative compliance to Section 131.0455(c)-(d).
(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.)
(Amended 1-27-2022 by O-21416 N.S.; effective 2-26-2022.)

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 4 76

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

In all RM zones, premises with more than four dwelling units shall include common open space as follows:

(a) The common open space area shall be at least 300 square feet, or 25 square feet
per dwelling unit, whichever is greater.

(b) At least one area of common open space shall be provided with minimum
dimensions of 12 feet by 15 feet. This space shall be improved as a usable area
with lawn or recreational facilities.

(c) Roofed structures may occupy a maximum of 50 percent of the common open
space area. No enclosed buildings are permitted in the common open space
area.

(d) Common open space may be provided in the required side and rear yards.

(e) Common open space shall be landscaped or improved with outdoor
recreational facilities available only to the residents and guests of the
development.
(Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.)

In the RS-1-2, RS-1-3, RS-1-4, RS-1-5, RS-1-6, and RS-1-7 zones, the following shall apply:

(a) The width of the third story is limited to 70 percent of the width of the lot.
(b) The depth of the third story is limited to 50 percent of the depth of the lot or
100 percent of the maximum width dimension, whichever is greater.
(Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.)
(Retitled to “Maximum Third Story Dimensions in the RS Zones and in Small Lot
Subdivisions” and amended 5-5-2015 by O-20483 N.S.; effective 6-4-2015.)
(Retitled from “Maximum Third Story Dimensions in the RS Zones and in Small Lot
Subdivisions” to “Maximum Third Story Dimensions in the RS Zones” and amended
3-22-2018 by O-20917 N.S.; effective 4-21-2018.)

Ch. Art. Div.
13 1 4 77

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

(a) The following are permitted architectural projections and encroachments into required yards and the angled building envelope plane for RS and RX zones, the RM-1-1, RM-1-2, and RM-1-3 zones, and in small lot subdivisions in accordance with Section 143.0365. These projections and encroachments are not permitted in the required yards within view corridors that are designated by land use plans in the Coastal Overlay Zone and may not be located in a required visibility area or a required turning radius or vehicle back-up area except where development regulations may allow.

(1) Roof projections such as eave, cornice, and eyebrow projections may
extend into the required yard or into the space above the angled
building envelope subject to the following:

(A) The projection may extend a maximum of 6 feet into the
required yard or 50 percent of the width of the required yard,
whichever is less;

(B) The projection shall not be closer than 2 feet, 6 inches to the
property line; and

(C) There shall be a minimum 6-foot, 8-inch clearance between
proposed grade and the projection.

(D) A roof design element may project into the space above the
required angled building envelope plane, as depicted in Diagram
131-04S, provided that the roof design element:

(i) Faces the front yard;

(ii) Does not encroach into any required yard;

(iii) Complies with all applicable structure height limits in
accordance with Section 113.0270; and

(iv) Is limited to a maximum of 33 percent of the width of
the building envelope facing the front yard, and a
maximum depth equal to or less than its width.

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 4 78

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

Diagram 131-04S

Exception for Angled Building Envelope Area

(2) Openly supported architectural projections, including trellises, may
encroach into required yards, as shown in Diagram 131-04T, subject to
the following:

(A) The height shall not exceed the height of the roof eave or the sill plate of the second floor, whichever is lower;

(B) The projection shall be at least 50 percent open in plan view;

(C) The projection may extend a maximum of 6 feet into the
required yard or 50 percent of the width of the required yard,
whichever is less;

(D) The projection shall not be closer than 2 feet, 6 inches to the
property line;

Ch. Art. Div.
13 1 4 79

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

(E) There shall be a minimum 6-foot, 8-inch clearance between
proposed grade and the lowest horizontal portion of the
projection, not including the supports, as described in Section
131.0461(a)(2)(F), below; and

(F) Diagonal supports from the building wall, such as knee braces,
extending within a 45-degree angle from the building wall to the
horizontal portion of the projection are permitted, provided that
the horizontal and vertical components of the supports do not
exceed 3 feet. There shall be a minimum spacing of 6 feet
between supports.

Diagram 131-04T
Openly Supported Architectural Projections

Envelope limit for architectural
projection (max 6' or 50% of
required setback )

Architectural projection
min 50% open, in plan view

3' max

6' or 50% of required setback 0 (whichever is less) 45 3' max Diagonal setback support 6'-8" min (6' o.c. min) Envelope limit for 2'-6" min architectural projection Required 3' max

Required setback

Section View Plan View

(3) Bay windows may project into required yards, as shown in
Diagram 131-04U, subject to the following requirements:

(A) There shall be a minimum 1-foot clearance between the lowest
point of the bay window structure and proposed grade directly
below;

(B) The bay window shall not project into the required yard more
than 4 feet or 50 percent of the width of the required yard,
whichever is less. The bay window shall not be closer than 3
feet to the property line;

(C) The bay window shall not be more than 8 feet in width;

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 4 80

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

(D) The bay window may extend to the maximum permitted height
of the building envelope; and

(E) There shall be a 16-foot or greater spacing between bay
windows, and no more than two bay windows per elevation
shall encroach into the required yard.

Diagram 131-04U
Bay Window Yard Projections

Building

4' max or
50% of the width 30'
of the required setback, Building 24'
whichever is less
Required
setback

8' 16' 8'
1' min max min max

Plan View Section View

(4) Fireplace enclosures may encroach into required yards and the angled
building envelope plane subject to the following requirements:

(A) The fireplace enclosure may not encroach into the required yard
more than 2 feet, 6 inches or 50 percent of the width of the
required yard, whichever is less. The fireplace shall not be
closer than 2 feet, 6 inches to the property line;

(B) The fireplace and chimney are not subject to the 45-degree
sloped building envelope requirement and may extend to the
maximum structure height at the required setback;

(C) The fireplace enclosure shall have a maximum width of 10 feet
measured from grade to the roof eave or the sill plate of the
second floor, whichever is lower, and a maximum width of 5
feet beyond that; and

(D) No more than two projecting fireplaces per building elevation
are permitted.

Ch. Art. Div.
13 1 4 81

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

(5) Mechanical equipment such as air conditioner units, gas meters,
electrical fuse boxes, or pool equipment and associated utility
enclosures may encroach into required side and rear yards subject to the
following requirements:

(A) At-grade equipment shall be located a minimum of 4 feet from the property line; and

(B) Equipment that is located completely below finished grade, with
a permanent, durable, protective cover shall be permitted to
encroach up to 2 feet, 6 inches from the property line;

(C) Except that no setback shall be required for air conditioner units
within a side or rear yard where sound attenuation features are
incorporated and demonstrated to comply with applicable sound
level limits in accordance with Section 59.5.0401.

(6) Entry roofs and porches may encroach into the required front and street
side yards subject to the following requirements:

(A) The encroachment shall not exceed 6 feet or 50 percent of the
width of the required yard, whichever is less;

(B) The height of the entry roof shall not exceed 15 feet above
grade;

(C) The width of the encroachment shall not exceed 10 feet or 50
percent of the width of the habitable portion of the building
elevation, whichever is greater; and

(D) Porches shall be maintained with at least two elevations that are
at least 40 percent open.

(7) Entry arbors may encroach into required front and street side yards, as
shown in Diagram 131-04V, subject to the following requirements

(A) The height of the arbor shall not exceed 10 feet for flat-topped
structures or 12 feet for sloping structures;

(B) The width of the arbor shall not exceed 6 feet, measured to the
centerlines of the supports. A maximum 2-foot overhang is
permitted on each side of the center of the supports, as long as
the overhang does not project into the public right-of-way;

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 4 82

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

(C) The horizontal surface of the arbor, including overhang, must
provide a minimum 6-foot, 8-inch clearance above proposed
grade;

(D) Supports shall not exceed a maximum dimension of 12 inches
by 12 inches;

(E) There shall be at least 6 feet between supports along the length
of the arbor;

(F) In plan view, the arbor shall be at least 40 percent open. Fencing between posts is subject to Chapter 14, Article 2, Division 3 (Fence Regulations);

(G) The arbor shall not be enclosed on any side other than the side
attached to the building, if attached; and

(H) Arbors may encroach the entire width of the required yard but
may not project beyond the property line.

Diagram 131-04V
Entry Arbor Yard Projections

Roof element above
(min 40% open) Sloping roof
6' min
Flat roof

2' max 12' Height
limit
10' Hight
12" X 12" max post limit 6' max
6'- 8" min

2' max
Grade

Plan View Section View

Ch. Art. Div.
13 1 4 83

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

(8) Patio structures may be located within a required side yard or rear yard,
subject to the following requirements:

(A) The patio structure shall not be located closer than 5 feet to any
property line;

(B) The patio shall be open on at least three sides except for support
columns with maximum dimensions of 18 inches by 18 inches
in plan view;

(C) The support columns shall have a minimum separation of 8 feet
measured on center; and

(D) The height of the roof of the patio shall not exceed the roof eave or the sill plate of the second floor, whichever is lower.

(9) Dormers are permitted to encroach into required yards and into the
angled building envelope plane subject to the following:

(A) The total length of all dormers on a building wall may not
exceed 30 percent of the total length of the building along that
wall;

(B) A dormer may not exceed 10 feet in width, measured at the
building wall;

(C) There shall be a minimum of 4 feet between each dormer,
including eaves;

(D) Projecting dormers may project through the 30/45-degree
sloped building envelope plane and may encroach 4 feet into the
required yard or 50 percent of the width of the adjacent required
yard, whichever is less; provided, however, that the dormer may
not be closer than 3 feet to the property line; and

(E) A dormer may be a vertical extension of a bay window.

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 4 84

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

Diagram 131-04W
Dormer Projection into Angled Building Envelope Plane

Outline of building envelope
Roof ridge line Area of allowable dormer projection
beyond angled building envelope plane Roof ridge line

6' Outline of building cross-section ‘’A’ Dormer 'A' (10’(8' max)max)plan roof Slope Slope 4' min Building of 24' Dormer B'‘B’ (10’(8' max)max)Length

NOTE: Total width of dormer projections ('A' + 'B') shall not exceed 30% of length of roof plan
in RM -1-1, RM -1-2, RM -1-3 zones or 50% of length of roof plan
in RM -2-4, RM -2-5, RM -2-6 zones.

Section Roof Plan

'A'
'B'

3-Dimension

Ch. Art. Div.
13 1 4 85

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

(10) Unroofed structures: An unroofed portion of a structure not in excess
of 3 feet above proposed grade, with an open safety railing not
exceeding 42 inches in height, is permitted within a required side or
rear yard.

(11) Swimming pools, spas, and hot tubs are permitted within a required yard subject to the following:

(A) Swimming pools that project 3 feet or less above grade may be
located a minimum of 3 feet from the property line.

(B) Swimming pools that project greater than 3 feet above grade are
not permitted to encroach within a required street yard or
interior side yard setback, but may encroach into the rear yard
setback if located a minimum of 4 feet from the rear property
line.

(12) Garages or non-habitable accessory buildings may encroach into a
required side or rear yard as follows:

(A) The lot size shall not exceed 10,000 square feet;

(B) The encroaching accessory building shall be limited to a
maximum structure height of 15 feet within the setback;

(C) The encroaching accessory building shall not share a common
wall with the primary dwelling unit, but may be attached via a
non-structural design element. Any development attached to the
accessory building above one story shall comply with the
setback;

(D) The accessory building shall not exceed a maximum length of
30 feet within any given setback; and

(E) An encroaching accessory building shall not exceed
525 square feet in gross floor area.

(b) The following are permitted architectural projections and encroachments into
the required front and street side yard for the RT zones. A maximum of 50
percent of the area of the required minimum front yard (the front 5 feet of the
lot) may be used for encroachments. See Section 131.0464(c) for required
building articulation features. No permitted projection or encroachment may
be located in a required visibility area or a required turning radius or vehicle
back-up area except where development regulations may allow.

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 4 86

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

(1) Projecting balconies may encroach into required minimum front and
street side yards subject to the following requirements:

(A) One unenclosed projecting balcony is permitted for each story
above the first story;

(B) A projecting balcony may encroach up to 4 feet into required minimum yards;

(C) Support posts to the ground below are not permitted unless the
area below the balcony serves as a projecting entry and provides
shelter for an access door to the dwelling unit; and

(D) The maximum permitted width of projecting balconies is 8 feet.

(2) Bay windows may encroach into required minimum front and street
side yards subject to the following requirements:

(A) Bay windows are limited to two per story;

(B) The maximum permitted width of bay windows is 8 feet;

(C) Bay windows may encroach a up to 4 feet into required
minimum yards; and

(D) Bay windows may extend to the height of the building or there
may be a horizontal separation between the bay windows.

(3) Turrets with or without cupola may encroach into the required
minimum front and street side yards and may extend into the sloped
building envelope area subject to the following requirements:

(A) Only one turret per lot may be used;

(B) A turret located at the corner of the building on a corner lot may
encroach into both the front and street side yards;

(C) A turret may encroach up to 4 feet into required yards; and

(D) A turret (and cupola) may also extend above the building height
limit and into the sloped building envelope area so that the
highest point is up to 5 feet above the maximum structure
height of the base zone. However, no structure or addition to a
structure shall be permitted to exceed the established height
limit of any overlay zone. (See Overlay Zones Chapter 13,
Article 2, Division 1.)

Ch. Art. Div.
13 1 4 87

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

(4) Projecting entries, either at grade or elevated with accompanying stairs
and cover, may encroach into required minimum front and street side
yards subject to the following requirements:

(A) Only one entry per elevation is permitted;

(B) The height of the floor of an elevated entry shall not exceed 42 inches above proposed grade;

(C) The entry may not be closer than 4 feet to the front property
line; and

(D) The width of a projecting entry shall not exceed 50 percent of
the width of the building facade.

(5) Trellis projections and eaves may project into required minimum front
and street side yards subject to the following requirements:

(A) Trellises may project into required minimum yards up to the
property line, but no portion of the trellis may extend beyond
the property line;

(B) Eaves may project 2 feet, 6 inches into the required minimum
yards; and

(C) There shall be at least 6 feet, 8 inches of clearance between
proposed grade and the bottom of the projections.

(6) Dormers may project into required minimum front and street side yards
subject to the following requirements:

(A) A maximum of two dormers are permitted per elevation;

(B) The maximum width of dormers shall be 10 feet; and

(C) Dormers may extend into the sloped building envelope area.

(7) A detached garage may encroach into the street side yard subject to the
following requirements:

(A) The garage may not exceed 12 feet in height; and

(B) The garage must be located within the rear 30 feet of the lot.

Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 4 88

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

(c) In the RM-2-4, RM-2-5, RM-2-6, RM-3-7, RM-3-8, RM-3-9, RM-4-10, RM-
4-11, and RM-5-12 zones, architectural projections and encroachments listed
in Section 131.0461(a) are permitted with the following limitations. No
permitted architectural projection or encroachment may be located in required
yards within view corridors that are designated by land use plans in the
Coastal Overlay Zone, in a required visibility area, a required turning radius, or
vehicle back-up area except where development regulations may allow.

(1) For front and rear yards, one encroachment is permitted per 50 feet of
building facade length, with a minimum of 10 feet between
encroachments.

(2) For side yards, two encroachments are permitted per 50 feet of building facade length, with a minimum of 10 feet between encroachments.

(3) A minimum of 3 feet must be provided between the encroachment and
the property line.

(4) Garages or non-habitable accessory buildings that meet the
requirements in Sections 131.0461(a)(12)(A) through
131.0461(a)(12)(E) may only encroach into a required side or rear yard
if they are detached.

(5) Dormers may project into the angled building envelope plane as
follows:

(A) The aggregate width of dormers may not exceed 50 percent of
the length of the roof plan to which the dormers will be
attached; and

(B) Dormers may not extend beyond a height of 40 feet.

(6) Projecting balconies may encroach up to 4 feet into the required
minimum front and street side yard subject to the following
requirements:

(A) One unenclosed projecting balcony per dwelling unit is
permitted for each story above the first story;

(B) Support posts to the ground below are not permitted unless the
area below the balcony serves as a projecting entry and
provides shelter for an access door to the dwelling unit; and

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(C) The maximum permitted width of projecting balconies shall not
exceed 10 feet or 50 percent of the width of the habitable
portion of the building elevation, whichever is greater.
(Amended 6-12-2001 by O-18948 N.S.; effective 12-12-2001.)
(Amended 11-28-2005 by O-19444 N.S.; effective 2-9-2006.)
(Amended 11-13-2008 by O-19801 N.S.; effective 12-13-2008.)
(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 5-5-2015 by O-20481 and O-20483 N.S.; effective 6-4-2015)
(Amended 1-27-2022 by O-21416 N.S.; effective 2-26-2022.)

The street wall of an attached dwelling unit shall be horizontally offset a minimum of 4 feet from the street wall of the dwelling unit to which it is attached. (Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.)

In the RX zones, for developments exceeding 8 dwelling units, at least 30 percent of the units shall have roof designs that vary from the remainder of the dwelling units. (Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.)

(a) Supplemental Requirements for RS Zones

(1) Manufactured homes are permitted as residential dwelling units subject
to all regulations of the applicable zone in addition to the following
supplemental regulations:

(A) Siding shall be of nonreflective material such as wood, vinyl,
stucco, decorative stone, or masonry;

(B) Roofing materials shall be of nonreflective material such as
concrete tiles, fiberglass shingles, or composition shingles,
shakes, or tiles;

(C) Eaves shall be between 12 and 16 inches measured from the
vertical side of the exterior wall; and

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(D) The foundation along the exterior perimeter shall conform to the
Building Regulations and shall consist of poured concrete,
masonry, or approved all-weather material. If the foundation
material is not masonry or concrete, it shall match the siding
material of the home.

(b) Supplemental Requirements for RX Zones:

(1) For lots without alley access, a minimum of 25 percent of the length of
the building facade on the ground floor must be utilized for habitable
space.

(2) Manufactured homes are permitted as residential dwelling units
provided they comply with the regulations in Section 131.0464(a)(1).

(c) Supplemental Requirements for RT Zones:

(1) When an RT development exceeds 12 units and the lots are greater than
90 feet in depth, the front façade of one-third of the dwelling units must
be offset 3 feet from the front façade of the remaining units.

(2) For all dwelling units, 20 percent of the area of the front façade shall be
used for door and window area.

(3) One building articulation feature from each category listed below shall
be incorporated into each dwelling unit:

Category A:
Elevated first floor
Projecting balcony
Bay windows (2)

Category B:
Turret (with or without cupola)
Inset balcony
Angled side planes (2)
Projecting (or inset) elevated entry

Category C Planter boxes Trellises Inset windows Projecting covered entry

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Dormers

Inset entry

Building articulation features shall be provided in accordance with the
following regulations. Those features that may project into the required
front and street side yards are indicated and are subject to the
requirements in Section 131.0461(c).

(A) Elevated First Floor. The elevation of the ground story (first
floor) shall be 42 inches above proposed grade.

(B) Projecting Balcony. A maximum of one projecting balcony is
permitted for each story above the first story. Each balcony
may be roofed or unroofed. Open or solid safety railings not to
exceed 42 inches in height are permitted. (See
Section 131.0461(b)(1) for yard encroachment regulations).

(C) Bay Windows. At least two bay windows per elevation are
required. A minimum of 40 percent of each bay window
elevation shall be glass. (See Section 131.0461(b)(2) for yard
encroachment regulations).

(D) Turret. The minimum size of a turret shall be 6 feet by 6 feet or
shall have a 6-foot diameter in plan dimensions. Turrets shall
extend from the ground (first story) level for the full height of
the building or shall extend from the second story to the full
height of the building. A turret may project into the space above
the angled building envelope plane to 5 feet above the
maximum permitted structure height.

For each story, at least 40 percent of the turret elevation shall be
glass. At the first story, an entry door may substitute for an
equal square footage amount of glass area. Only one bay
window per story may be used if a turret is provided. (See
Section 141.0461(b)(3) for yard encroachment regulations).

(E) Inset Balcony. A maximum of two inset balconies are permitted
per elevation. Each balcony may be roofed or unroofed. Open
or solid safety railings not to exceed 42 inches in height are
permitted.

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(F) Angled Side Planes. At both side setbacks, the structure shall
observe 60-degree planes sloping inward above 25 feet in height
to the maximum permitted building height. At minimum,
angled planes must be located on the front 50 percent of the
structure. Dormers may project from the angled side planes to
the side property lines but may not be closer than 3 feet to a
street side property line.

(G) Projecting Elevated Entry. One projecting entry is permitted
per elevation. The entry must be unenclosed on three sides and
may have a maximum 42-inch-high open safety railing. The
entry shall be a minimum of 6 feet and a maximum of 8 feet
wide. The entry may have an unenclosed balcony with the
same horizontal dimensions above it. Stairs providing access to
the entry for buildings with an elevated first floor shall not be
included in the determination of width. (See Section
131.0461(b)(4) for yard encroachment regulations).

(H) Planter Boxes. Planter boxes shall be of wood, brick, stone, or
finished/patterned concrete construction. The minimum total
area of the planter boxes shall be 40 square feet. The walls of
the planter boxes shall be at least 24 inches and no more than 36
inches high. The planter boxes shall be located adjacent to the
structure, entry, walkway, or property line. Wrought iron
fencing (and gate), at least 50 percent open, may be placed in
the required front yard either separately or in conjunction with
the planter boxes, in accordance with the fence height
regulations in Chapter 14, Article 2, Division 3 (Fence
Regulations).

(I) Trellises. Trellises shall be at least 50 percent open in plan
view. Diagonal supports from the building wall extending
within a 45-degree angle from the building wall to the
horizontal portion of the projection are permitted. (See
Section 131.0461(b)(5) for yard encroachment regulations).

(J) Inset Windows. A maximum of two inset windows are
permitted per story. The window surface must be set back at
least 6 inches from the front facade.

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(K) Projecting Covered Entry. One projecting covered entry is
permitted per elevation. The entry shall be at least 6 feet but no
more than 8 feet wide. The required cover shall be no more
than 50 percent open. The entry may have an unenclosed
balcony with the same horizontal dimensions, above it. (See
Section 131.0461(b)(4) for yard encroachment regulations).

(L) Dormers. Dormers may project into the space above the angled
building envelope plane. Dormers may have pitched or curved
roofs. The maximum width for dormers is 5 feet. At the side
and street side setbacks a minimum separation of 10 feet
between dormers is required. (See Section 131.0461(b)(6) for
yard encroachment regulations).

(M) Inset Entry. One inset entry is permitted per elevation. Inset
entries shall be either at grade or elevated. The entry must be
set back at least 24 inches from the facade and may have a
maximum 42-inch-high open safety railing.

(d) Supplemental Requirements for RM-1-1, RM-1-2, RM-1-3 Zones

(1) For lots with a width of 60 feet or less, not more than two 10-foot-wide
garage doors or garage entries or a single 16-foot-wide garage door or
entry on the building facade is permitted, except when that door
accesses underground parking. For each additional 25 feet of street
frontage, an additional 10 feet maximum width garage door or garage
entry is permitted.

(2) For lots with a width of 50 feet or less, at least 40 percent of the length
of the building facade on the ground floor must enclose habitable area
(not garage or parking entrance); for lots greater than 50 feet in width,
at least 50 percent of the length of the building facade on the ground
floor must enclose habitable area. See Diagram 131-04X.

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Diagram 131-04X
Ground Floor Habitable Space Requirement

Habitable area Parking area

Building facade Parking entry
enclosing habitable area driveway

Lot width of 50' Max 60% of length or less - min 40% of of building facade length of building facade

Lot width of more Max 50% of length
than 50' - min 50% of of building facade
length of building facade

Length of building facade

(3) Within the front façade on all floors above the first floor, a transparent
glass window or windows with an aggregate area of at least 20 square
feet shall be provided for each dwelling unit that faces the street.

(e) Supplemental Requirements for the RM-2-4, RM-2-5, RM-2-6 Zones

(1) For lots with a width of 60 feet or less, not more than two 10-foot-wide
garage doors or garage entries or a single 16-foot-wide garage door or
entry on the building facade is permitted, except when that door
accesses underground parking. For each additional 25 feet of street
frontage, an additional 10 feet maximum width garage door or garage
entry is permitted.

(2) Garages, carports, and other parking entries in the building facade shall
be set back at least an additional 5 feet from the facade wall enclosing
habitable space, as shown in Diagram 131-04Y.

(3) For lots with a width of 50 feet or less, at least 40 percent of the length
of the building facade on the ground floor must enclose habitable area
(not a garage or parking entrance); for lots greater than 50 feet in width,
at least 50 percent of the length of the building facade on the ground
floor must enclose habitable area. See Diagram 131-04Y.

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Diagram 131-04Y
Parking Area/ Habitable Space Offset

H abitable area Park ing area

5' min

Building fac ade enc los ing habitable area Park ing entry driv ew ay

Lot w idth of 50'
or les s - min 40% of
length of building fac ade

Lot w idth of 50'
or les s than 50' - min 50%
of length of building fac ade

Length of building fac ade

(4) Within the building façade on all floors above the first floor, a
transparent glass window or windows with an aggregate area of at least
20 square feet shall be provided for each dwelling unit that faces the
street.

(f) Supplemental Requirements for the RM-3-7, RM-3-8, RM-3-9 Zones
When the ground floor of a building is used for parking and the parking is
adjacent to a required yard, the parking area must be screened by a minimum
6-foot-high fence or 6-foot-high landscaping. A pedestrian entry to the
building from each street must be provided.
(Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.)
(Amended 11-28-2005 by O-19444 N.S.; effective 2-9-2006.)
(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 ]

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The Federal Fair Housing Act and the California Fair Employment and Housing Act require that jurisdictions make reasonable accommodations to afford disabled persons the equal opportunity to use and enjoy a dwelling. In consideration of the special need and the potential benefit that can be accomplished with a requested modification, deviations may be approved through Process One subject to the following:

(a) The development will be used by a disabled person;

(b) The deviation request is necessary to make specific housing available to a
disabled person and complies with all applicable development regulations to
the maximum extent feasible;

(c) The deviation request will not impose an undue financial or administrative
burden on the City;

(d) The deviation request will not create a fundamental alteration in the
implementation of the City’s zoning regulations.

(e) For coastal development in the coastal overlay zone, that is not exempt
pursuant to Section 126.0704, there is no feasible alternative that provides
greater consistency with the certified Local Coastal Program.
(Added 11-28-2005 by O-19444 N.S.; effective 2-9-2006.)
(Amended 11-13-08 by O-19803 N.S; effective 12-13-2008.)

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Article 1: Base Zones