Downey · Zoning · R-3-O
Downey R-3-O zoning: height, setbacks and lot size
In Downey's R-3-O zone, buildings can be up to 3 stories, the front setback is 15 ft and the minimum lot size is 10,000 sq ft (Downey code, read October 2026).
Key points
- Maximum number of stories: 3 stories
- Minimum front setback: 15 ft
- Minimum side setback: 5 ft
- Minimum lot size: 10,000 sq ft
- Maximum lot coverage: 50%
R-3-O is a zoning district in Downey. Every value below was read from the Downey Municipal Code and links to its section (read October 2026). State laws such as the ADU and SB 9 rules can allow more on a residential lot. General information, not legal advice — read the code text and check with the city before you build.
Development standards in R-3-O
The general rule for a typical lot in this zone. Zoning tables often attach notes, such as rules for corner lots, lots next to a residential zone, or new subdivisions only. Open “code text” under a value to see the table cell or sentence it was read from.
| Maximum number of stories | 3 stories § 9312.08 · code textTable row “Building height — maximum (feet) main building”, column “R-3-O”: 35 feet or three stories, whichever is less a |
|---|---|
| Minimum front setback | 15 ft § 9312.08 · code textTable row “front”, column “R-3-O”: 15 |
| Minimum side setback | 5 ft § 9312.08 · code textTable row “interior”, column “R-3-O”: 5 c |
| Minimum lot size | 10,000 sq ft § 9312.08 · code textTable row “Lot area — minimum (sq. ft.)”, column “R-3-O”: 10,000 |
| Maximum lot coverage | 50% § 9312.08 · code textTable row “Lot coverage — maximum (percent)”, column “R-3-O”: 50 |
Uses in R-3-O
Uses the code's use tables allow in R-3-O, or allow with a permit. Each links to its page with the code section.
- Single-family home — Allowed — see note
- Duplex — Needs a minor site plan review — see note
- Private school — Needs a conditional use permit — see note
When a different number applies
The code sets other values for particular lots, buildings or locations in R-3-O:
- Minimum side setback: 10 ft — When abutting the R-1 Zone § 9312.08
- Minimum rear setback: 20 ft — Rear yard area abuts an R-1 Zone and building is one story § 9312.08
- Minimum rear setback: 30 ft — Rear yard area abuts an R-1 Zone and building is two-story § 9312.08
- Minimum rear setback: 46 ft — Rear yard area abuts an R-1 Zone and building is three-story § 9312.08
- Minimum rear setback: None required — Rear yard abuts a fully dedicated public alley and the building is one story § 9312.08
Not on this page
We did not find a general height, rear setback, FAR, density limit for R-3-O in the zoning tables we read. The code may still set one elsewhere — check the Downey Municipal Code.
Other Downey zoning districts
Who this affects
Frequently asked questions
What is the maximum number of stories in Downey's R-3-O zone?
3 stories — Downey Municipal Code § 9312.08.
What is the minimum front setback in Downey's R-3-O zone?
15 ft — Downey Municipal Code § 9312.08.
What is the minimum side setback in Downey's R-3-O zone?
5 ft — Downey Municipal Code § 9312.08.
What is the minimum lot size in Downey's R-3-O zone?
10,000 sq ft — Downey Municipal Code § 9312.08.
What is the maximum lot coverage in Downey's R-3-O zone?
50% — Downey Municipal Code § 9312.08.
General information, not legal advice.
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