Morro Bay · Land use · Duplex
Where is a duplex allowed in Morro Bay?
In Morro Bay, a duplex is allowed in 4 base zones (RL, RS, RM and RH), needs a permit in 3 (NC, CC and DC, all with a condition) and not allowed in 2 (Morro Bay use tables, read October 2026).
Key points
- Allowed: RL, RS, RM and RH
- Needs a permit: NC, CC and DC
- Not allowed: VSC and TMU
Find your lot's zone on the city zoning map, then read its row. Every status below was read from the Morro Bay 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 duplex can go
Morro Bay's code calls this use “Two-Unit Dwelling”. 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 |
|---|---|---|
| RL | Allowed | § 17.07.020 |
| RS | Allowed | § 17.07.020 |
| RM | Allowed | § 17.07.020 |
| RH | Allowed | § 17.07.020 |
| NC | Needs a minor use permit — see note Note 1: Must be located above and behind commercial uses except within the Mixed-Use Residential Overlay. Within the Mixed-Use Residential Overlay, residential uses in any configuration, including as stand-alone residential development, is allowed subject to Minor Use Permit approval. | § 17.08.020 |
| CC | Needs a conditional use permit — see note Note 2: Must be located above or behind non-residential uses. | § 17.08.020 |
| DC | Needs a conditional use permit — see note Note 2: Must be located above or behind non-residential uses. | § 17.08.020 |
Zones where it is not allowed
What else applies
- State law: SB 9 (Gov. Code § 65852.21) allows two homes on most single-family lots with a ministerial permit, also where this table says no.
- Not covered here: CF, H, WF (waterfront/harbor districts, S6) list water-related uses only; none of the 16 uses appears there. Overlay zones and specific plans can also change the answer.
Other uses in Morro Bay
Who this affects
Frequently asked questions
Can I have a duplex in the NC zone in Morro Bay?
Only with a minor use permit. Morro Bay's use table lists it that way in NC (§ 17.08.020). The code adds a condition: “Must be located above and behind commercial uses except within the Mixed-Use Residential Overlay. Within the Mixed-Use Residential Overlay, residential uses in any configuration, including as stand-alone residential…”
Can I have a duplex in the VSC zone in Morro Bay?
No. Morro Bay's use table does not allow it in VSC (§ 17.08.020).
Can I have a duplex in the RL zone in Morro Bay?
Yes. Morro Bay's use table lists it as allowed in RL (§ 17.07.020).
General information, not legal advice.
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