Albany · Land use · Live-work unit
Where is a live-work unit allowed in Albany?
In Albany, a live-work unit is allowed in 1 base zone (SC, it with a condition), needs a permit in 2 (SPC and CMX, 1 with a condition) and not allowed in 7 (Albany use tables, read October 2026).
Key points
- Allowed: SC
- Needs a permit: SPC and CMX
- Not allowed: R-1, R-2, R-3, R-4, RHD, PF and WF
Find your lot's zone on the city zoning map, then read its row. Every status below was read from the Albany Municipal Code use tables (read October 2026). Base zones only. General information, not legal advice — check with the city before you apply.
Zones where a live-work unit can go
Albany's code calls this use “Live/work space”. Each row links to the use table it comes from. A zone marked “see note” has a condition in the code, for example upper floors only or a larger lot.
| Zone | Status | Code |
|---|---|---|
| SC Solano Commercial | Allowed — see note Note 8: Use permit is required if located on the ground floor; on the 2nd floor or above, the use is permitted by right. Off-street parking in support of residential use is not permitted to occupy ground floor building frontage along Solano Avenue. | § 20.12 |
| SPC San Pablo Commercial | Needs an use permit (major) | § 20.12 |
| CMX Commercial Mixed Use | Needs a minor use permit — see note Note **: See Subsection 20.100.030 for description of distinctions between major and minor use permits. Authority to grant minor use permits is limited to maximum 2,500 square feet (nonresidential), or 6 dwelling units (residential), unless marked with asterisk(s): * = maximum 5,000 square feet; ** = maximum 10 dwelling units. A major use permit is required for any project that exceeds these thresholds. | § 20.12 |
Zones where it is not allowed
What else applies
- Overlay zones and specific plans can change the answer for a lot.
Other uses in Albany
Who this affects
Frequently asked questions
Can I have a live-work unit in the SPC zone in Albany?
Only with an use permit (major). Albany's use table lists it that way in SPC (San Pablo Commercial) (§ 20.12).
Can I have a live-work unit in the R-1 zone in Albany?
No. Albany's use table does not allow it in R-1 (Residential Single Family) (§ 20.12).
Can I have a live-work unit in the SC zone in Albany?
Yes, with a condition. Albany's use table lists it as allowed in SC (Solano Commercial) (§ 20.12). The code adds a condition: “Use permit is required if located on the ground floor; on the 2nd floor or above, the use is permitted by right. Off-street parking in support of residential use is not permitted to occupy ground floor building…”
General information, not legal advice.
Ask about a live-work unit at an address in Albany
Ask GoCodebook what the zoning at a specific address allows and get an answer that cites the section.
Ask your question