Downey · Land use · Single-family home
Where is a single-family home allowed in Downey?
In Downey, a single-family home is allowed in 4 base zones (R-1, R-2, R-3 and R-3-O, all with a condition) (Downey use tables, read October 2026).
Key points
- Allowed: R-1, R-2, R-3 and R-3-O
Find your lot's zone on the city zoning map, then read its row. Every status below was read from the Downey 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 single-family home can go
Downey's code calls this use “Single-family dwellings (detached)”. 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 |
|---|---|---|
| R-1 R-1 (all lot sizes) | Allowed — see note Note Notes and Exceptions: Detached single-family dwellings only | § 9312.06 |
| R-2 | Allowed — see note Note Notes and Exceptions: Detached single-family dwellings only Note a: Shall be developed to the R-1 5,000 development standards. | § 9312.06 |
| R-3 | Allowed — see note Note Notes and Exceptions: Detached single-family dwellings only Note a: Shall be developed to the R-1 5,000 development standards. | § 9312.06 |
| R-3-O | Allowed — see note Note Notes and Exceptions: Detached single-family dwellings only Note a: Shall be developed to the R-1 5,000 development standards. | § 9312.06 |
What else applies
- State law: State law lets most single-family lots add an ADU and a JADU (California ADU law) and a second home or a lot split under SB 9 (Gov. Code § 65852.21).
- Not covered here: Specific Plan areas (referred to in the body-art note); Section 9418, 9422, 9430.04, 9430.06, 9814 text not in packet. Overlay zones and specific plans can also change the answer.
Other uses in Downey
Who this affects
Frequently asked questions
Can I have a single-family home in the R-1 zone in Downey?
Yes, with a condition. Downey's use table lists it as allowed in R-1 (R-1 (all lot sizes)) (§ 9312.06). The code adds a condition: “Detached single-family dwellings only”
General information, not legal advice.
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