Skip to content
ChatProjectCodes

Earlier editions: 2026-07

Title 20 — Zoning›Division 2 — Zoning Districts and Allowable Land Uses

Santa Rosa Municipal Code § 20-22.010 Purpose

Santa Rosa Municipal Code · 2026-10 edition · updated 2026-10-04 · Santa Rosa

Cite as: Santa Rosa Municipal Code § 20-22.010 · Text as of 2026-10-04

§ 20-22.010. Purpose.

This chapter lists the land uses that may be allowed within the residential zoning districts established by Section 20-20.020 (Zoning Map and Zoning Districts), determines the type of land use permit/approval required for each use, and provides basic standards for site layout and building size.

(Ord. 3677 § 1, 2004; Ord. 3968 § 1, 2011)

Exceptions & meaning →

§ 20-22.020. Purposes of the residential zoning districts.

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

A. RR (Rural Residential) district. The RR zoning district is applied to areas of the City intended to accommodate residential neighborhoods with compatible agricultural uses, but where the primary uses are residential, and compatible accessory uses. The maximum allowable density ranges from 0.2 to two dwellings per acre, with the specific allowable density for each parcel shown on the zoning map by a numerical suffix to the RR map symbol (see Section 20-22.040). The RR zoning district implements and is consistent with the Residential—Very Low Density land use classification of the General Plan.

B. R-1 (Single-Family Residential) district. The R-1 zoning district is applied to areas of the City intended to be maintained as residential neighborhoods comprised of detached and attached single-family houses, clustered Residential hillside projects, and small multi-family projects, together with compatible accessory uses. The maximum allowable density ranges from two to 13 dwellings per acre, with the specific allowable density for each parcel shown on the zoning map by a numerical suffix to the R-1 map symbol (see Section 20-22.040). The R-1 zoning district implements and is consistent with the Residential—Very Low Density (where residential clustered on hillsides is desirable), Low Density/Open Space, Low Density, and Medium Low Density land use classifications of the General Plan.

C. R-2 (Medium Density Multi-Family Residential) and R-3 (Multi-Family Residential) districts. The R-2 and R-3 zoning districts are applied to areas of the City appropriate for residential neighborhoods with medium and higher residential densities, to provide home rental and ownership opportunities, and to provide a full range of choices in housing types to improve access to affordable housing. The maximum allowable density ranges from eight to 30 dwellings per acre, with the specific allowable density for each parcel shown on the zoning map by a numerical suffix to the R-3 map symbol (see Section 20-22.040). Densities of more than 30 dwellings per acre may be allowed within the Mixed Use land use designation of the General Plan. The R-2 and R-3 zoning districts implement and are consistent with the Residential—Medium Density and Medium High Density land use classifications of the General Plan.

D. TV-R (Transit Village-Residential) district. The TV-R zoning district is applied to areas within approximately one-half mile of a transit facility that is appropriate for mixed use development. Development should transition from less intense uses at the outlying edges to higher intensity uses near the transit facility. Residential uses are required, and ground floor neighborhood serving retail and live-work uses are encouraged. The maximum allowable density ranges from 25 to 40 dwellings per acre. The TV-R zoning district is consistent with and implements the Transit Village Medium land use classification of the General Plan.

E. MH (Mobile Home Park) district. The MH zoning district is applied to areas of the City occupied by and intended to be maintained as mobile home parks. The maximum allowable density ranges from four to 18 dwellings per acre. The MH zoning district implements and is consistent with the Residential—Mobile Home Park land use classification of the General Plan.

(Ord. 3677; Ord. 3711; Ord. 3950; Ord. 2020-014; and Ord. 2021-012; Ord. 2025-014, 11/18/2025)

Exceptions & meaning →

§ 20-22.030. Residential district land uses and permit requirements.

Table 2-2 identifies the uses of land allowed by this Zoning Code in each residential zoning district, and the land use permit required to establish each use, in compliance with Section 20-21.030 (Allowable Land Uses and Permit Requirements).

Note: where the last column in the table ("Specific Use Regulations") includes a section number, the regulations in the referenced section apply to the use. Provisions in other sections of this Zoning Code may also apply.

TABLE 2-2 Allowed Land Uses and Permit Requirements for Residential Districts P - Permitted Use, Zoning Clearance Required DUP - Director Conditional Use Permit Required MUP - Minor Conditional Use Permit Required CUP - Major Conditional Use Permit Required S - See Specific Use Regulations for Permit — Use Not Allowed P - Permitted Use, Zoning Clearance Required DUP - Director Conditional Use Permit Required MUP - Minor Conditional Use Permit Required CUP - Major Conditional Use Permit Required S - See Specific Use Regulations for Permit — Use Not Allowed P - Permitted Use, Zoning Clearance Required DUP - Director Conditional Use Permit Required MUP - Minor Conditional Use Permit Required CUP - Major Conditional Use Permit Required S - See Specific Use Regulations for Permit — Use Not Allowed P - Permitted Use, Zoning Clearance Required DUP - Director Conditional Use Permit Required MUP - Minor Conditional Use Permit Required CUP - Major Conditional Use Permit Required S - See Specific Use Regulations for Permit — Use Not Allowed P - Permitted Use, Zoning Clearance Required DUP - Director Conditional Use Permit Required MUP - Minor Conditional Use Permit Required CUP - Major Conditional Use Permit Required S - See Specific Use Regulations for Permit — Use Not Allowed P - Permitted Use, Zoning Clearance Required DUP - Director Conditional Use Permit Required MUP - Minor Conditional Use Permit Required CUP - Major Conditional Use Permit Required S - See Specific Use Regulations for Permit — Use Not Allowed P - Permitted Use, Zoning Clearance Required DUP - Director Conditional Use Permit Required MUP - Minor Conditional Use Permit Required CUP - Major Conditional Use Permit Required S - See Specific Use Regulations for Permit — Use Not Allowed
LAND USE (1) PERMIT REQUIRED BY ZONE PERMIT REQUIRED BY ZONE PERMIT REQUIRED BY ZONE PERMIT REQUIRED BY ZONE PERMIT REQUIRED BY ZONE PERMIT REQUIRED BY ZONE PERMIT REQUIRED BY ZONE
LAND USE (1) RR R-1 R-2 R-3 MH TV-R Specific Use Regulations
AGRICULTURAL & OPEN SPACE USES AGRICULTURAL & OPEN SPACE USES AGRICULTURAL & OPEN SPACE USES AGRICULTURAL & OPEN SPACE USES AGRICULTURAL & OPEN SPACE USES AGRICULTURAL & OPEN SPACE USES AGRICULTURAL & OPEN SPACE USES AGRICULTURAL & OPEN SPACE USES
Agricultural accessory structure P — — — — —
Animal keeping—Livestock, including aviaries S — — — — — § 20-42.040
Crop production, horticulture, orchard, vineyard P MUP — — — —
Initial crop processing MUP MUP — — — —
Plant nursery MUP — — — — —
RECREATION, EDUCATION & PUBLIC ASSEMBLY USES
Community garden (4) P P P P P P Ch. 20-40
Equestrian facility CUP — — — — —
Golf course/country club, public or quasi-public CUP CUP — — — —
Health/fitness facility—Commercial — — — — — —
Health/fitness facility—Quasi-public MUP MUP DUP DUP DUP DUP
Library, museum MUP MUP MUP MUP MUP P
Meeting facility, public or private DUP DUP DUP DUP DUP DUP
Park, playground DUP DUP DUP DUP DUP P
Private residential recreation facility DUP DUP DUP DUP DUP DUP
School, public or private DUP DUP DUP DUP DUP DUP
Studio—Art, dance, martial arts, music, etc. — — — — — DUP
RESIDENTIAL USES (See Section 20-28.080 , Senior Housing (-SH) combining district, for specific requirements regarding proposed senior housing developments)
Accessory dwelling unit S S S S — S § 20-42.130
Animal keeping—Domestic and exotic S S S S S S § 20-42.040
Cannabis—Personal cultivation P P P P P P Ch. 20-46
Duplex (3) P P P P — P
Emergency shelter CUP CUP CUP CUP CUP CUP § 20-42.190
Farmworker Dwelling Unit (3) P P P P P P
Farmworker Housing Complex (3) P (10) P (10) MUP MUP MUP MUP
Half-Plex (3) P P P P P P
Home occupation S S S S S S § 20-42.070
Junior accessory dwelling unit S S S S S S § 20-42.130
Live/work — — — — — P (3) § 20-42.080
Low-Barrier Navigation Center — — — — — P
Missing Middle Housing — — — P — P § 20-28.100
Mobile home park CUP CUP CUP CUP P — § 20-42.100
Mobile home/manufactured housing unit (3) P P P P P P § 20-42.094
Multi-family DUP DUP P P — P
Organizational house (dormitory, sorority, monastery, etc.) MUP MUP MUP MUP — MUP
Residential accessory structures and uses P P P P P P § 20-42.030
Residential Care Facility (Licensed - Large) (8) MUP MUP MUP MUP MUP MUP § 20-42.230
Residential Care Facility (Licensed - Small) (3) P P P P P P
Residential Care Facility (Unlicensed) (3) P P P P P P
Residential component of a mixed use project P P P P P P § 20-42.090
Rooming or boarding house P P P P — P
Rooming or boarding, accessory P P P P — P
Single-family attached P P P P — P
Single-family detached P P — — — —
Single Room Occupancy Facility (8) — MUP MUP MUP — MUP
Small lot residential project—single family attached MUP MUP MUP MUP — MUP § 20-42.140
Small lot residential project—single family detached MUP MUP — — — — § 20-42.140
Supportive housing (3) P (9) P (9) P P P P
Tiny Home on Wheels (6) DUP DUP — — — — § 20-42.220
Transitional housing (3) P (9) P (9) P P P P
Work/live — — — — — DUP § 20-42.080
RETAIL TRADE RETAIL TRADE RETAIL TRADE RETAIL TRADE RETAIL TRADE RETAIL TRADE RETAIL TRADE RETAIL TRADE
Accessory retail — — — — — P § 20-42.024
Alcoholic beverage sales—off-site consumption (less than 10,000 sq. ft.) — — — — — CUP § 20-42.034
Alcoholic beverage sales—off-site consumption (10,000 sq. ft. or more) — — — — — P § 20-42.034
Artisan shop — — — — — DUP
General retail—up to 20,000 sf of floor area — — — — — P
Specialty food store—10,000 sf or less — — — — — P
Neighborhood center MUP MUP MUP MUP MUP P
Outdoor display and sales — — — — — DUP § 20-42.110
Pharmacy — — — — — P
Produce stand DUP — — — — DUP
Restaurant, café, coffee shop—Counter ordering — — — — — P
Restaurant, café, coffee shop—Outdoor dining — — — — — P § 20-42.110 , § 20-42.160
Restaurant, café, coffee shop—Serving alcohol — — — — — P
Restaurant, café, coffee shop—Table service — — — — — P
Second hand store — — — — — —
SERVICES—BUSINESS, FINANCIAL, PROFESSIONAL
ATM — — — — — P § 20-42.044
Medical service—Health care facility (Small) (3) P P P P P P
Medical service—Health care facility (Large) (8) MUP MUP MUP MUP MUP MUP § 20-42.060
Medical service—Integrated medical health center — — MUP MUP — MUP
SERVICES—GENERAL SERVICES—GENERAL SERVICES—GENERAL SERVICES—GENERAL SERVICES—GENERAL SERVICES—GENERAL SERVICES—GENERAL SERVICES—GENERAL
Accessory service — — — — MUP MUP § 20-42.024
Adult Day Program (6) DUP DUP DUP DUP DUP DUP
Child day care—Large family day care home (3) P P P P P P § 20-42.050
Child day care—Small family day care home (3) P P P P P P § 20-42.050
Child day care center (2) MUP MUP MUP MUP — DUP § 20-42.050
Extended hours of operation (11:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.) — — — — — MUP
Lodging—Bed & breakfast inn (B&B) MUP MUP — — — —
Personal services — — — — — DUP
Public safety facility MUP MUP MUP MUP MUP MUP
TRANSPORTATION, COMMUNICATIONS & INFRASTRUCTURE
Electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE)—Accessory P P P P P P
Telecommunications antenna S S S S S S Ch. 20-44
Utility facility CUP CUP CUP CUP CUP CUP
Utility infrastructure P P P P P P

Key to Zoning District Symbols

RR Rural Residential R-3 Multi-Family Residential
R-1 Single-Family Residential MH Mobile Home Park
R-2 Medium Density Multi-Family Residential TV-R Transit Village-Residential

Notes:

(1) See Division 7 for land use definitions.
(2) Permitted by right within any of the City's Priority Development Areas and shall therefore not require a use permit.
(3) Permitted by right within any residential Planned Development.
(4) A community garden is allowed on the same property as an existing permitted meeting facility provided that the establishment of the garden does not trigger a grading permit or affect the operation and design of the meeting facility.
(5) Permitted by right within any Planned Development.
(6) Permitted with a Director Conditional Use Permit within any residential Planned Development.
(7) Permitted with a Minor Conditional Use Permit within any of the City's Priority Development Areas.
(8) Permitted with a Minor Conditional Use Permit within any single-family Planned Development and/or any rural residential Planned Development.
(9) Supportive Housing and Transitional Housing projects which require the construction of a new multi-family structure and do not meet the requirements of Government Code § 65651 shall require a Minor Conditional Use Permit and may be subject to Design Review.
(10) Farmworker Housing Complex projects that do not meet the requirements of Cal. Health & Safety Code § 17000 et seq., shall require a Minor Use Permit and may be subject to Design Review.

(Ord. 3677 § 1, 2004; Ord. 3711 § 1 Exh. A, 2005; Ord. 3889 § 2, 2008; Ord. 3950 § 4, 2010; Ord. 3968 § 2, 2011; Ord. 3978 § 3, 2012; Ord. 3997 § 4, 2012; Ord. 4001 § 2, 2012; Ord. 4002 § 2, 2012; Ord. 4042 § 2, 2015; Ord. 2017-024 § 2; Ord. 2017-025 § 2; Ord. 2018-012 § 3; Ord. 2020-001 § 3; Ord. 2020-014 § 6; Ord. 2021-012 § 9; Ord. 2024-012, 11/19/2024; Ord. 2025-014, 11/18/2025; Ord. 2026-003, 3/24/2026; Ord. 2026-006, 4/21/2026)

Exceptions & meaning →

§ 20-22.040. Residential district subdivision and density standards.

The minimum parcel size requirements for new subdivisions in the residential zoning districts and maximum allowable residential densities are established by Table 2-3.

A. Application of requirements to property. The application of minimum parcel size requirements to property within the City is shown on the Zoning Map (Chapter 20-20) by means of a numerical or alphabetical suffix appended to the residential Zoning Map symbols (e.g., R-1-9, R-3-HD). Each applicable suffix is shown in the "Zoning District and Suffix" column of Table 2-3.

B. Attached housing projects. A condominium, townhome, or planned development project may be subdivided for ownership purposes into smaller parcels than allowed by Table 2-3, with the minimum lot area requirement, maximum lot coverage, and dimensions determined through the subdivision review process, provided that the overall development site complies with the lot area and width requirements of this Chapter, and the total number of dwellings does not exceed the maximum density established by the applicable zoning district.

C. Small lot residential projects. Small lot residential projects are allowed in compliance with Section 20-42.140 (Residential Small Lot Projects), instead of the requirements in Table 2-3.

TABLE 2-3—RESIDENTIAL ZONING DISTRICT PARCEL SIZE AND DENSITY

Zoning District and Suffix Minimum Lot Size Minimum Lot Size Maximum Number of Dwelling Units (units) per Parcel
Zoning District and Suffix Gross Area Width (1) Maximum Number of Dwelling Units (units) per Parcel
RR-40 1 acre Determined through subdivision process 1 dwelling unit, plus 1 second unit where allowed by Section 20-42.140 , Or a multi-family project where authorized by Minor Use Permit approval, and consistent with the allowable density established by the General Plan, only on a parcel that complies with the minimum lot size requirements.
RR-20 20,000 sf Determined through subdivision process 1 dwelling unit, plus 1 second unit where allowed by Section 20-42.140 , Or a multi-family project where authorized by Minor Use Permit approval, and consistent with the allowable density established by the General Plan, only on a parcel that complies with the minimum lot size requirements.
R-1-6 6,000 sf—Interior lot 7,000 sf—Corner lot 60 ft—Interior lot 70 ft—Corner lot 1 dwelling unit, plus 1 second unit where allowed by Section 20-42.140 , Or a multi-family project where authorized by Minor Use Permit approval, and consistent with the allowable density established by the General Plan, only on a parcel that complies with the minimum lot size requirements.
R-1-7.5 7,500 sf—Interior lot 8,000 sf—Corner lot 75 ft 1 dwelling unit, plus 1 second unit where allowed by Section 20-42.140 , Or a multi-family project where authorized by Minor Use Permit approval, and consistent with the allowable density established by the General Plan, only on a parcel that complies with the minimum lot size requirements.
R-1-9 9,000 sf—Interior lot 9,500 sf—Corner lot 80 ft 1 dwelling unit, plus 1 second unit where allowed by Section 20-42.140 , Or a multi-family project where authorized by Minor Use Permit approval, and consistent with the allowable density established by the General Plan, only on a parcel that complies with the minimum lot size requirements.
R-1-15 15,000 sf—Interior lot 15,000 sf—Corner lot 80 ft 1 dwelling unit, plus 1 second unit where allowed by Section 20-42.140 , Or a multi-family project where authorized by Minor Use Permit approval, and consistent with the allowable density established by the General Plan, only on a parcel that complies with the minimum lot size requirements.
R-2 6,000 sf—Interior lot 7,000 sf—Corner lot 60 ft—Interior lot 70 ft—Corner lot 1 unit per 3,000 sf (2) (3)
R-3-10 6,000 sf—Interior lot 7,000 sf—Corner lot 60 ft—Interior lot 70 ft—Corner lot 1 unit per 4,300 sf (2) (3)
R-3-15 6,000 sf—Interior lot 7,000 sf—Corner lot 60 ft—Interior lot 70 ft—Corner lot 1 unit per 2,900 sf (2) (3)
R-3-18 6,000 sf—Interior lot 7,000 sf—Corner lot 80 ft—Interior lot 90 ft—Corner lot 1 unit per 2,400 sf (2) (3)
R-3-30 6,000 sf—Interior lot 7,000 sf—Corner lot 80 ft—Interior lot 90 ft—Corner lot 1 unit per 1,450 sf (2) (3)
R-3-HD 6,000 sf—Interior lot 7,000 sf—Corner lot 80 ft—Interior lot 90 ft—Corner lot Determined by CUP (3)
MH 5 acres for mobile home park; as determined by mobile home park Conditional Use Permit for individual mobile home sites within a mobile home park. 5 acres for mobile home park; as determined by mobile home park Conditional Use Permit for individual mobile home sites within a mobile home park. 4 to 18 units per acre
TV-R None required. None required. 25 to 40 units per acre (3)

Notes:

(1) Minimum lot width shall be measured midway between the front and rear lot lines.
(2) The density requirement is expressed as the minimum number of square feet of gross site area required for each dwelling unit.
(3) A Missing Middle Housing development designed in accordance with Section 20-28.100 is not subject to the unit per square footage requirement.

D. Development in all R-3 and TV-R districts shall provide at least the midpoint of the allowed density, unless topography, parcel configuration, heritage trees, historic preservation, or utility constraints make the midpoint impossible to achieve.

(Ord. 3677 § 1, 2004; Ord. 3711 § 1 Exh. A, 2005; Ord. 3950 § 5, 2010; Ord. 2020-014 § 7; Ord. 2025-014, 11/18/2025)

Exceptions & meaning →

§ 20-22.050. Residential district general development standards.

New land uses, structures, and site development, and alterations to existing land uses, structures, and site development within the residential zoning districts shall be designed, constructed, and established in compliance with the following re-quirements, and all applicable standards in Divisions 3 (Site Planning and General Development Standards) and 4 (Standards for Specific Land Uses) of this Zoning Code.

A. RR and R-1 zoning districts. See the requirements in Tables 2-3 and 2-4.

B. R-2 and R-3 zoning districts. See the requirements in Tables 2-3 and 2-5.

C. MH zoning district. See the requirements in Section 20-42.100 (Mobile Home Parks).

D. TV-R zoning district. See the requirements in Tables 2-3 and 2-5. The standards of this district are intended to support a diverse mix of multi-family housing, live-work housing and mixed-use residential with neighborhood serving retail. See also the General Plan, Downtown Station Area Specific Plan and Section 2 (Core Area) of the City's Design Guidelines.

  1. Residential required. Each new development shall be a residential project, with a ground floor neighborhood serving retail or live-work component encouraged, in compliance with the residential density requirements of the TV zoning district in Table 2-3.

  2. Height limit. There is a four-story height limit for new buildings within this zoning district, with the exception of those projects located adjacent to existing residential zones or residential uses where the maximum height shall transition down to a maximum of three stories adjacent to the residential property.

  3. Development adjacent to residential zones and residential uses. Development located adjacent to a Residential zone or residential use shall be compatible in both scale and design with the adjacent neighborhood.

  4. Site design, hours of operation. Site design and hours of operation shall be as determined by the review authority to be compatible with surrounding neighborhood uses.

  5. Setbacks for noise and air quality impacts. To facilitate the planned transition to a more compact Development pattern within the TV-R zoning district, increased setback distances shall not be used as a measure to mitigate potential noise and air quality impacts when new development is proposed adjacent to nonconforming industrial or light industrial uses.

E. NMU zoning district. See the requirements in Tables 2-6 and 2-8. The standards of this district allow for new multi-family residential development and other neighborhood-scale supporting uses in all-residential or mixed-use buildings.

See also Sections 2 (Core Area), 3.1 (Single-Family Residential), 3.2 (Multiple-Family Residential), and 4.3 (Infill Development), of the City's Design Guidelines.

TABLE 2-4—RR AND R-1 DISTRICT DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS

Development Feature Requirement by Zoning District Requirement by Zoning District Requirement by Zoning District Requirement by Zoning District Requirement by Zoning District Requirement by Zoning District
Development Feature RR-40 RR-20 R-1-6 R-1-7.5 R-1-9 R-1-15
Setbacks, primary structures (1) Minimum setbacks required. See Section 20-30.110 for setback measurement instructions, and exceptions to these requirements. Minimum setbacks required. See Section 20-30.110 for setback measurement instructions, and exceptions to these requirements. Minimum setbacks required. See Section 20-30.110 for setback measurement instructions, and exceptions to these requirements. Minimum setbacks required. See Section 20-30.110 for setback measurement instructions, and exceptions to these requirements. Minimum setbacks required. See Section 20-30.110 for setback measurement instructions, and exceptions to these requirements. Minimum setbacks required. See Section 20-30.110 for setback measurement instructions, and exceptions to these requirements.
Front 20 ft 20 ft 15 ft 20 ft 20 ft 20 ft
Side—Interior 5 ft 5 ft 5 ft for 1-story parts of structures 10 ft for 2-story parts of structures 5 ft for 1-story parts of structures 10 ft for 2-story parts of structures 10 ft 10 ft
Side—Corner 20 ft 15 ft 15 ft 15 ft 15 ft 15 ft
Rear 20 ft 20 ft 15 ft 15 ft 20 ft 20 ft
Garage/carport front A garage/carport entrance facing a public or private street shall be set back 19 ft from the rear of the sidewalk, street property line, or street plan line, whichever is greater. A garage facing a public or private alley or driveway shall be set back 3 to 5 ft from the alley property line, back of curb, sidewalk, or pavement edge, whichever is greater. A garage/carport entrance facing a public or private street shall be set back 19 ft from the rear of the sidewalk, street property line, or street plan line, whichever is greater. A garage facing a public or private alley or driveway shall be set back 3 to 5 ft from the alley property line, back of curb, sidewalk, or pavement edge, whichever is greater. A garage/carport entrance facing a public or private street shall be set back 19 ft from the rear of the sidewalk, street property line, or street plan line, whichever is greater. A garage facing a public or private alley or driveway shall be set back 3 to 5 ft from the alley property line, back of curb, sidewalk, or pavement edge, whichever is greater. A garage/carport entrance facing a public or private street shall be set back 19 ft from the rear of the sidewalk, street property line, or street plan line, whichever is greater. A garage facing a public or private alley or driveway shall be set back 3 to 5 ft from the alley property line, back of curb, sidewalk, or pavement edge, whichever is greater. A garage/carport entrance facing a public or private street shall be set back 19 ft from the rear of the sidewalk, street property line, or street plan line, whichever is greater. A garage facing a public or private alley or driveway shall be set back 3 to 5 ft from the alley property line, back of curb, sidewalk, or pavement edge, whichever is greater. A garage/carport entrance facing a public or private street shall be set back 19 ft from the rear of the sidewalk, street property line, or street plan line, whichever is greater. A garage facing a public or private alley or driveway shall be set back 3 to 5 ft from the alley property line, back of curb, sidewalk, or pavement edge, whichever is greater.
Setbacks, accessory structures (1) Minimum setbacks accessory structures. See also Sections 20-30.110 for exceptions, and 20-42.030 (Accessory Uses and Structures). Minimum setbacks accessory structures. See also Sections 20-30.110 for exceptions, and 20-42.030 (Accessory Uses and Structures). Minimum setbacks accessory structures. See also Sections 20-30.110 for exceptions, and 20-42.030 (Accessory Uses and Structures). Minimum setbacks accessory structures. See also Sections 20-30.110 for exceptions, and 20-42.030 (Accessory Uses and Structures). Minimum setbacks accessory structures. See also Sections 20-30.110 for exceptions, and 20-42.030 (Accessory Uses and Structures). Minimum setbacks accessory structures. See also Sections 20-30.110 for exceptions, and 20-42.030 (Accessory Uses and Structures).
Front 20 ft 20 ft 20 ft 20 ft 20 ft 20 ft
Side—Interior 5 ft 5 ft 5 ft 0 ft for attached and zero lot line units 5 ft 0 ft for attached and zero lot line units 5 ft 0 ft for attached and zero lot line units 5 ft 0 ft for attached and zero lot line units
Side—Corner 20 ft 15 ft 15 ft 15 ft 15 ft 15 ft
Rear 5 ft 5 ft 5 ft 5 ft 5 ft 5 ft
Alley 3 to 5 ft, or 19 ft when used for parking with direct access to alley. 3 to 5 ft, or 19 ft when used for parking with direct access to alley. 3 to 5 ft, or 19 ft when used for parking with direct access to alley. 3 to 5 ft, or 19 ft when used for parking with direct access to alley. 3 to 5 ft, or 19 ft when used for parking with direct access to alley. 3 to 5 ft, or 19 ft when used for parking with direct access to alley.
Building separation See Sections 20-30.110 (Setback Requirements and Exceptions) and 20-42.030 (Accessory Structures and Uses). See Sections 20-30.110 (Setback Requirements and Exceptions) and 20-42.030 (Accessory Structures and Uses). See Sections 20-30.110 (Setback Requirements and Exceptions) and 20-42.030 (Accessory Structures and Uses). See Sections 20-30.110 (Setback Requirements and Exceptions) and 20-42.030 (Accessory Structures and Uses). See Sections 20-30.110 (Setback Requirements and Exceptions) and 20-42.030 (Accessory Structures and Uses). See Sections 20-30.110 (Setback Requirements and Exceptions) and 20-42.030 (Accessory Structures and Uses).
Lot coverage Maximum percentage of total lot area that may be covered by structures. See Section 20-22.040 (Residential District Subdivision and Density Standards). Maximum percentage of total lot area that may be covered by structures. See Section 20-22.040 (Residential District Subdivision and Density Standards). Maximum percentage of total lot area that may be covered by structures. See Section 20-22.040 (Residential District Subdivision and Density Standards). Maximum percentage of total lot area that may be covered by structures. See Section 20-22.040 (Residential District Subdivision and Density Standards). Maximum percentage of total lot area that may be covered by structures. See Section 20-22.040 (Residential District Subdivision and Density Standards). Maximum percentage of total lot area that may be covered by structures. See Section 20-22.040 (Residential District Subdivision and Density Standards).
Residential structures 40% 40% 40% 40% 40% 40%
Meeting facility Determined through Conditional Use Permit approval, to a maximum of 75% Determined through Conditional Use Permit approval, to a maximum of 75% Determined through Conditional Use Permit approval, to a maximum of 75% Determined through Conditional Use Permit approval, to a maximum of 75% Determined through Conditional Use Permit approval, to a maximum of 75% Determined through Conditional Use Permit approval, to a maximum of 75%
Height limit Maximum allowable height of structures. See Sections 20-30.070 (Height Limits and Exceptions) for height measurement requirement and height limit exception and 20-52.060 (Minor Adjustments, Minor Variances and Variances). Maximum allowable height of structures. See Sections 20-30.070 (Height Limits and Exceptions) for height measurement requirement and height limit exception and 20-52.060 (Minor Adjustments, Minor Variances and Variances). Maximum allowable height of structures. See Sections 20-30.070 (Height Limits and Exceptions) for height measurement requirement and height limit exception and 20-52.060 (Minor Adjustments, Minor Variances and Variances). Maximum allowable height of structures. See Sections 20-30.070 (Height Limits and Exceptions) for height measurement requirement and height limit exception and 20-52.060 (Minor Adjustments, Minor Variances and Variances). Maximum allowable height of structures. See Sections 20-30.070 (Height Limits and Exceptions) for height measurement requirement and height limit exception and 20-52.060 (Minor Adjustments, Minor Variances and Variances). Maximum allowable height of structures. See Sections 20-30.070 (Height Limits and Exceptions) for height measurement requirement and height limit exception and 20-52.060 (Minor Adjustments, Minor Variances and Variances).
Primary structures 35 ft 35 ft 35 ft 35 ft 35 ft 35 ft
Accessory structures 16 ft 16 ft 16 ft 16 ft 16 ft 16 ft
Fences, walls & hedges No fence, wall, or hedge shall exceed a height of 3 feet in any required front or corner side setback, or 6 feet in any other location on the lot. See Section 20-30.050 (Fences, Walls, and Hedges). No fence, wall, or hedge shall exceed a height of 3 feet in any required front or corner side setback, or 6 feet in any other location on the lot. See Section 20-30.050 (Fences, Walls, and Hedges). No fence, wall, or hedge shall exceed a height of 3 feet in any required front or corner side setback, or 6 feet in any other location on the lot. See Section 20-30.050 (Fences, Walls, and Hedges). No fence, wall, or hedge shall exceed a height of 3 feet in any required front or corner side setback, or 6 feet in any other location on the lot. See Section 20-30.050 (Fences, Walls, and Hedges). No fence, wall, or hedge shall exceed a height of 3 feet in any required front or corner side setback, or 6 feet in any other location on the lot. See Section 20-30.050 (Fences, Walls, and Hedges). No fence, wall, or hedge shall exceed a height of 3 feet in any required front or corner side setback, or 6 feet in any other location on the lot. See Section 20-30.050 (Fences, Walls, and Hedges).
Landscaping See Chapter 20-34 (Landscaping Standards). See Chapter 20-34 (Landscaping Standards). See Chapter 20-34 (Landscaping Standards). See Chapter 20-34 (Landscaping Standards). See Chapter 20-34 (Landscaping Standards). See Chapter 20-34 (Landscaping Standards).
Parking See Chapter 20-36 (Parking and Loading). See Chapter 20-36 (Parking and Loading). See Chapter 20-36 (Parking and Loading). See Chapter 20-36 (Parking and Loading). See Chapter 20-36 (Parking and Loading). See Chapter 20-36 (Parking and Loading).
Signs See Chapter 20-38 (Signs). See Chapter 20-38 (Signs). See Chapter 20-38 (Signs). See Chapter 20-38 (Signs). See Chapter 20-38 (Signs). See Chapter 20-38 (Signs).

Notes:

(1) For a multi-family housing project the setbacks are measured from the exterior walls of the structure to the outermost project property lines.

TABLE 2-5—R-2 AND R-3 DISTRICT DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS

Development Feature Requirement by Zoning District Requirement by Zoning District Requirement by Zoning District Requirement by Zoning District Requirement by Zoning District Requirement by Zoning District Requirement by Zoning District
Development Feature R-2 R-3-10 R-3-15 R-3-18 R-3-30 R-3-HD TV-R
Setbacks, primary structures (1) (2) Minimum setbacks required. See Section 20-30.110 for setback measurement instructions, and exceptions to these requirements. Minimum setbacks required. See Section 20-30.110 for setback measurement instructions, and exceptions to these requirements. Minimum setbacks required. See Section 20-30.110 for setback measurement instructions, and exceptions to these requirements. Minimum setbacks required. See Section 20-30.110 for setback measurement instructions, and exceptions to these requirements. Minimum setbacks required. See Section 20-30.110 for setback measurement instructions, and exceptions to these requirements. Minimum setbacks required. See Section 20-30.110 for setback measurement instructions, and exceptions to these requirements. Minimum setbacks required. See Section 20-30.110 for setback measurement instructions, and exceptions to these requirements.
Front 10 ft (3) 10 ft (3) 10 ft (3) 10 ft (3) 10 ft (3) 10 ft (3) None, except as required by the review authority (2)
Side—Interior 1-story portions
Attached and detached except when: 5 ft 5 ft 5 ft 5 ft 5 ft 5 ft None, except as required by the review authority (2)
Abutting an R-3 0 ft 0 ft 0 ft 0 ft 0 ft 0 ft None, except as required by the review authority (2)
Side—Interior 2-story portions
Attached and detached except when: 10 ft 10 ft 10 ft 10 ft 10 ft 10 ft None, except as required by the review authority (2)
Abutting an R-3 7.5 ft 0 ft 0 ft 0 ft 0 ft 0 ft None, except as required by the review authority (2)
Abutting a nonresidential district 7.5 ft 7.5 ft 7.5 ft 7.5 ft 7.5 ft 7.5 ft None, except as required by the review authority (2)
Side—Interior 3-story portions (or more)
Attached and detached except when: 15 ft 15 ft 15 ft 15 ft 15 ft 15 ft None, except as required by the review authority (2)
Abutting an R-3 10 ft 0 ft 0 ft 0 ft 0 ft 0 ft None, except as required by the review authority (2)
Abutting a nonresidential district 10 ft 10 ft 10 ft 10 ft 10 ft 10 ft None, except as required by the review authority (2)
Side—Corner 10 ft (3) 10 ft (3) 10 ft (3) 10 ft (3) 10 ft (3) 10 ft (3) None, except as required by the review authority (2)
Rear
Attached and detached except when: 15 ft 15 ft 15 ft 15 ft 15 ft 15 ft None, except as required by the review authority (2)
Abutting an R-3 15 ft 0 ft 0 ft 0 ft 0 ft 0 ft None, except as required by the review authority (2)
Garage/carport front A garage/carport entrance facing a public or private street shall be set back 19 ft from the rear of the sidewalk, street property line, or street plan line, whichever is greater. A garage facing a public or private alley or driveway shall be set back 3 to 5 ft, or 19 ft from the alley property line, back of curb, sidewalk, or pavement edge, whichever is greater. A garage/carport entrance facing a public or private street shall be set back 19 ft from the rear of the sidewalk, street property line, or street plan line, whichever is greater. A garage facing a public or private alley or driveway shall be set back 3 to 5 ft, or 19 ft from the alley property line, back of curb, sidewalk, or pavement edge, whichever is greater. A garage/carport entrance facing a public or private street shall be set back 19 ft from the rear of the sidewalk, street property line, or street plan line, whichever is greater. A garage facing a public or private alley or driveway shall be set back 3 to 5 ft, or 19 ft from the alley property line, back of curb, sidewalk, or pavement edge, whichever is greater. A garage/carport entrance facing a public or private street shall be set back 19 ft from the rear of the sidewalk, street property line, or street plan line, whichever is greater. A garage facing a public or private alley or driveway shall be set back 3 to 5 ft, or 19 ft from the alley property line, back of curb, sidewalk, or pavement edge, whichever is greater. A garage/carport entrance facing a public or private street shall be set back 19 ft from the rear of the sidewalk, street property line, or street plan line, whichever is greater. A garage facing a public or private alley or driveway shall be set back 3 to 5 ft, or 19 ft from the alley property line, back of curb, sidewalk, or pavement edge, whichever is greater. A garage/carport entrance facing a public or private street shall be set back 19 ft from the rear of the sidewalk, street property line, or street plan line, whichever is greater. A garage facing a public or private alley or driveway shall be set back 3 to 5 ft, or 19 ft from the alley property line, back of curb, sidewalk, or pavement edge, whichever is greater. A garage/carport entrance facing a public or private street shall be set back 19 ft from the rear of the sidewalk, street property line, or street plan line, whichever is greater. A garage facing a public or private alley or driveway shall be set back 3 to 5 ft, or 19 ft from the alley property line, back of curb, sidewalk, or pavement edge, whichever is greater.
Setbacks, accessory structures (1) Minimum setbacks for accessory structures. See also Sections 20-30.110 for exceptions, and 20-42.030 (Accessory Uses and Structures). Minimum setbacks for accessory structures. See also Sections 20-30.110 for exceptions, and 20-42.030 (Accessory Uses and Structures). Minimum setbacks for accessory structures. See also Sections 20-30.110 for exceptions, and 20-42.030 (Accessory Uses and Structures). Minimum setbacks for accessory structures. See also Sections 20-30.110 for exceptions, and 20-42.030 (Accessory Uses and Structures). Minimum setbacks for accessory structures. See also Sections 20-30.110 for exceptions, and 20-42.030 (Accessory Uses and Structures). Minimum setbacks for accessory structures. See also Sections 20-30.110 for exceptions, and 20-42.030 (Accessory Uses and Structures). Minimum setbacks for accessory structures. See also Sections 20-30.110 for exceptions, and 20-42.030 (Accessory Uses and Structures).
Front 20 ft 20 ft 20 ft 20 ft 20 ft 20 ft None, except as required by the review authority (2)
Side—Interior 5 ft 5 ft 5 ft 5 ft 5 ft 5 ft None, except as required by the review authority (2)
Side—Corner 15 ft 15 ft 15 ft 15 ft 15 ft 15 ft None, except as required by the review authority (2)
Rear 5 ft 5 ft 5 ft 5 ft 5 ft 5 ft None, except as required by the review authority (2)
Alley 3 to 5 ft, or 19 ft when used for parking with direct access to alley. 3 to 5 ft, or 19 ft when used for parking with direct access to alley. 3 to 5 ft, or 19 ft when used for parking with direct access to alley. 3 to 5 ft, or 19 ft when used for parking with direct access to alley. 3 to 5 ft, or 19 ft when used for parking with direct access to alley. 3 to 5 ft, or 19 ft when used for parking with direct access to alley. 3 to 5 ft, or 19 ft when used for parking with direct access to alley.
Building separation See Sections 20-30.110 (Setback Requirements and Exceptions) and 20-42.030 (Accessory Structures and Uses). See Sections 20-30.110 (Setback Requirements and Exceptions) and 20-42.030 (Accessory Structures and Uses). See Sections 20-30.110 (Setback Requirements and Exceptions) and 20-42.030 (Accessory Structures and Uses). See Sections 20-30.110 (Setback Requirements and Exceptions) and 20-42.030 (Accessory Structures and Uses). See Sections 20-30.110 (Setback Requirements and Exceptions) and 20-42.030 (Accessory Structures and Uses). See Sections 20-30.110 (Setback Requirements and Exceptions) and 20-42.030 (Accessory Structures and Uses). See Sections 20-30.110 (Setback Requirements and Exceptions) and 20-42.030 (Accessory Structures and Uses).
Lot coverage Maximum percentage of total lot area that may be covered by structures. See Section 20-22.040 (Residential District Subdivision and Density Standards). Maximum percentage of total lot area that may be covered by structures. See Section 20-22.040 (Residential District Subdivision and Density Standards). Maximum percentage of total lot area that may be covered by structures. See Section 20-22.040 (Residential District Subdivision and Density Standards). Maximum percentage of total lot area that may be covered by structures. See Section 20-22.040 (Residential District Subdivision and Density Standards). Maximum percentage of total lot area that may be covered by structures. See Section 20-22.040 (Residential District Subdivision and Density Standards). Maximum percentage of total lot area that may be covered by structures. See Section 20-22.040 (Residential District Subdivision and Density Standards). Maximum percentage of total lot area that may be covered by structures. See Section 20-22.040 (Residential District Subdivision and Density Standards).
Maximum coverage 50% 55% 60% 65% 75% 75% 100%
Height limit Maximum allowable height of structures. See Section 20-30.070 (Height Limits and Exceptions) for height measurement requirements, and height limit exceptions. Maximum allowable height of structures. See Section 20-30.070 (Height Limits and Exceptions) for height measurement requirements, and height limit exceptions. Maximum allowable height of structures. See Section 20-30.070 (Height Limits and Exceptions) for height measurement requirements, and height limit exceptions. Maximum allowable height of structures. See Section 20-30.070 (Height Limits and Exceptions) for height measurement requirements, and height limit exceptions. Maximum allowable height of structures. See Section 20-30.070 (Height Limits and Exceptions) for height measurement requirements, and height limit exceptions. Maximum allowable height of structures. See Section 20-30.070 (Height Limits and Exceptions) for height measurement requirements, and height limit exceptions. Maximum allowable height of structures. See Section 20-30.070 (Height Limits and Exceptions) for height measurement requirements, and height limit exceptions.
Primary structures 35 ft 35 ft 35 ft 45 ft 45 ft 45 ft 4 stories (4)
Accessory structures 16 ft 16 ft 16 ft 16 ft 16 ft 16 ft 16 ft
Fences, walls & hedges No fence, wall, or hedge shall exceed a height of 3 feet in any required front or corner side setback, or 6 feet in any other location on the lot. See Section 20-30.110 (Setback requirements and exceptions). No fence, wall, or hedge shall exceed a height of 3 feet in any required front or corner side setback, or 6 feet in any other location on the lot. See Section 20-30.110 (Setback requirements and exceptions). No fence, wall, or hedge shall exceed a height of 3 feet in any required front or corner side setback, or 6 feet in any other location on the lot. See Section 20-30.110 (Setback requirements and exceptions). No fence, wall, or hedge shall exceed a height of 3 feet in any required front or corner side setback, or 6 feet in any other location on the lot. See Section 20-30.110 (Setback requirements and exceptions). No fence, wall, or hedge shall exceed a height of 3 feet in any required front or corner side setback, or 6 feet in any other location on the lot. See Section 20-30.110 (Setback requirements and exceptions). No fence, wall, or hedge shall exceed a height of 3 feet in any required front or corner side setback, or 6 feet in any other location on the lot. See Section 20-30.110 (Setback requirements and exceptions). No fence, wall, or hedge shall exceed a height of 3 feet in any required front or corner side setback, or 6 feet in any other location on the lot. See Section 20-30.110 (Setback requirements and exceptions).
Landscaping See Chapter 20-34 (Landscaping Standards). See Chapter 20-34 (Landscaping Standards). See Chapter 20-34 (Landscaping Standards). See Chapter 20-34 (Landscaping Standards). See Chapter 20-34 (Landscaping Standards). See Chapter 20-34 (Landscaping Standards). See Chapter 20-34 (Landscaping Standards).
Parking See Chapter 20-36 (Parking and Loading). See Chapter 20-36 (Parking and Loading). See Chapter 20-36 (Parking and Loading). See Chapter 20-36 (Parking and Loading). See Chapter 20-36 (Parking and Loading). See Chapter 20-36 (Parking and Loading). See Chapter 20-36 (Parking and Loading).
Signs See Chapter 20-38 (Signs). See Chapter 20-38 (Signs). See Chapter 20-38 (Signs). See Chapter 20-38 (Signs). See Chapter 20-38 (Signs). See Chapter 20-38 (Signs). See Chapter 20-38 (Signs).

Notes:

(1) The Design Review or Conditional Use Permit process may require larger setbacks. The Design Review or Conditional Use Permit process may require larger setbacks. The Design Review or Conditional Use Permit process may require larger setbacks. The Design Review or Conditional Use Permit process may require larger setbacks. The Design Review or Conditional Use Permit process may require larger setbacks. The Design Review or Conditional Use Permit process may require larger setbacks. The Design Review or Conditional Use Permit process may require larger setbacks. The Design Review or Conditional Use Permit process may require larger setbacks. The Design Review or Conditional Use Permit process may require larger setbacks.
(2) The North Station Area (-SA) or Downtown Station Area (-DSA) Combining Districts may require special setbacks. The North Station Area (-SA) or Downtown Station Area (-DSA) Combining Districts may require special setbacks. The North Station Area (-SA) or Downtown Station Area (-DSA) Combining Districts may require special setbacks. The North Station Area (-SA) or Downtown Station Area (-DSA) Combining Districts may require special setbacks. The North Station Area (-SA) or Downtown Station Area (-DSA) Combining Districts may require special setbacks. The North Station Area (-SA) or Downtown Station Area (-DSA) Combining Districts may require special setbacks. The North Station Area (-SA) or Downtown Station Area (-DSA) Combining Districts may require special setbacks. The North Station Area (-SA) or Downtown Station Area (-DSA) Combining Districts may require special setbacks. The North Station Area (-SA) or Downtown Station Area (-DSA) Combining Districts may require special setbacks.
(3) A one- story portion may project up to 6 ft into the setback and required stairs and landings may project up to 10 ft into the setback. A one- story portion may project up to 6 ft into the setback and required stairs and landings may project up to 10 ft into the setback. A one- story portion may project up to 6 ft into the setback and required stairs and landings may project up to 10 ft into the setback. A one- story portion may project up to 6 ft into the setback and required stairs and landings may project up to 10 ft into the setback. A one- story portion may project up to 6 ft into the setback and required stairs and landings may project up to 10 ft into the setback. A one- story portion may project up to 6 ft into the setback and required stairs and landings may project up to 10 ft into the setback. A one- story portion may project up to 6 ft into the setback and required stairs and landings may project up to 10 ft into the setback. A one- story portion may project up to 6 ft into the setback and required stairs and landings may project up to 10 ft into the setback. A one- story portion may project up to 6 ft into the setback and required stairs and landings may project up to 10 ft into the setback.
(4) Properties that abut residential and historic residential uses and zoning districts, maximum height shall transition down to a max. of 3 stories adjacent to the residential property. Properties that abut residential and historic residential uses and zoning districts, maximum height shall transition down to a max. of 3 stories adjacent to the residential property. Properties that abut residential and historic residential uses and zoning districts, maximum height shall transition down to a max. of 3 stories adjacent to the residential property. Properties that abut residential and historic residential uses and zoning districts, maximum height shall transition down to a max. of 3 stories adjacent to the residential property. Properties that abut residential and historic residential uses and zoning districts, maximum height shall transition down to a max. of 3 stories adjacent to the residential property. Properties that abut residential and historic residential uses and zoning districts, maximum height shall transition down to a max. of 3 stories adjacent to the residential property. Properties that abut residential and historic residential uses and zoning districts, maximum height shall transition down to a max. of 3 stories adjacent to the residential property. Properties that abut residential and historic residential uses and zoning districts, maximum height shall transition down to a max. of 3 stories adjacent to the residential property. Properties that abut residential and historic residential uses and zoning districts, maximum height shall transition down to a max. of 3 stories adjacent to the residential property.

(Ord. 3677 § 1, 2004; Ord. 3711 § 1 Exh. A, 2005; Ord. 3950 §§ 6, 7, 2010; Ord. 2020-014 § 8; Ord. 2021-012 § 10; Ord. 2025-014, 11/18/2025)

Exceptions & meaning →

Explained in plain English

Santa Rosa guides that cite this page.

Get a plain-English answer with a citation back to this text.

Ask AI about this code
Export this section
▸Contents — Santa Rosa Municipal Code
Santa Rosa Municipal Code

GoCodebook provides public access, search, citation, multilingual explanation, and practical interpretation of legally adopted building regulations. It is not a substitute for the official ICC or California code publications.