South Pasadena · Land use · Single-family home
Where is a single-family home allowed in South Pasadena?
In South Pasadena, a single-family home is allowed in 2 base zones (RE and RS) and not allowed in 2 (South Pasadena use tables, read October 2026).
Key points
- Allowed: RE and RS
- Not allowed: RM and RH
Find your lot's zone on the city zoning map, then read its row. Every status below was read from the South Pasadena 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
South Pasadena's code calls this use “New single-family 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 |
|---|---|---|
| RE | Allowed | § 36.220.030 |
| RS | Allowed | § 36.220.030 |
Zones where it is not allowed
What else applies
- 'Existing single-family dwelling' is P in RE, RS, RM, RH (S2): legally existing homes stay allowed in the multifamily districts; new ones are not.
- 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: DTSP and HFSP (specific plans); AM overlay (36.250.030); Table 2-6 mixed-use overlay (36.230.050 table) not in packet; CF-50 multifamily detail. Overlay zones and specific plans can also change the answer.
Other uses in South Pasadena
Who this affects
Frequently asked questions
Can I have a single-family home in the RM zone in South Pasadena?
No. South Pasadena's use table does not allow it in RM (§ 36.220.030).
Can I have a single-family home in the RE zone in South Pasadena?
Yes. South Pasadena's use table lists it as allowed in RE (§ 36.220.030).
General information, not legal advice.
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