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Westminster · Land use · Duplex

Where is a duplex allowed in Westminster?

In Westminster, a duplex is allowed in 4 base zones (R2, R3, R4 and R5), needs a conditional use permit in 1 (MU) and not allowed in 1 (Westminster use tables, read October 2026).

Key points

  • Allowed: R2, R3, R4 and R5
  • Needs a permit: MU
  • Not allowed: R1

Find your lot's zone on the city zoning map, then read its row. Every status below was read from the Westminster 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

Westminster's code calls this use “Two-family dwellings”. 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.

ZoneStatusCode
R2
Allowed
§ 17.210.010
R3
Allowed
§ 17.210.010
R4
Allowed
§ 17.210.010
R5
Allowed
§ 17.210.010
MU Mixed-Use
Needs a conditional use permit
§ 17.260.010

Zones where it is not allowed

What else applies

  • Standards for this use: Section 17.400.125 Residential Uses - Multiple-Family Residential.
  • 'SB 9 two-unit housing development in the R1 District' is P in R1 only (S2, Section 17.400.122); it restates state-law two-unit development, so R1 stays 'not allowed' for the Two-family dwellings row.
  • 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: Section 17.200.020.B (determination of unlisted uses) is not in the packet. Overlay zones and specific plans can also change the answer.

Other uses in Westminster

Who this affects

HomeownersBuyersReal estate agentsSmall developers

Frequently asked questions

Can I have a duplex in the MU zone in Westminster?

Only with a conditional use permit. Westminster's use table lists it that way in MU (Mixed-Use) (§ 17.260.010).

Can I have a duplex in the R1 zone in Westminster?

No. Westminster's use table does not allow it in R1 (§ 17.210.010).

Can I have a duplex in the R2 zone in Westminster?

Yes. Westminster's use table lists it as allowed in R2 (§ 17.210.010).

General information, not legal advice.

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