El Cajon RM-HR zoning: height, setbacks and lot size

RM-HR is a zoning district in El Cajon. Every value below was read from the El Cajon 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.

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.

Uses the code's use tables allow in RM-HR, or allow with a permit. Each links to its page with the code section.

• Single-family home — Allowed — see note
• Apartment building — Allowed — see note
• Senior or assisted living — Allowed
• Residential care home (7 or more) — Needs a conditional use permit — see note
• Child care center — Needs a conditional use permit — see note
• Church or place of worship — Needs a conditional use permit

The code sets other values for particular lots, buildings or locations in RM-HR:

• Minimum side setback: 20 ft — Exterior side yard. Except as modified by Specific Plan No. 182 § 17.140.090

We did not find a general height, stories, lot size, FAR, density limit for RM-HR in the zoning tables we read. The code may still set one elsewhere — check the El Cajon Municipal Code.

• O-S
• P
• RM-1450
• RM-2200
• RM-2500
• RM-4300
• RM-6000
• RS-40
• RS-6
• RS-9