R-2 Zone in Berkeley, CA
R-2 zoning district rules in Berkeley, CA. Permitted uses, setbacks, height limits, and lot coverage requirements.
The R-2 zone in Berkeley, CA is a residential district (Two-Family Residential). Permits up to two dwelling units per lot (duplex). Allows slightly higher density than R-1 while maintaining low-density neighborhood character. This zone requires a 15 ft front setback, 5 ft side setback, and 15 ft rear setback. Maximum building height is 35 feet (2 stories). Maximum lot coverage is 55%.
Common Permitted Uses
- Single-family homes
- Duplexes
Permits up to two dwelling units per lot (duplex). Allows slightly higher density than R-1 while maintaining low-density neighborhood character.
Setback Requirements
| Setback Type | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Front Setback | 15 feet |
| Side Setback | 5 feet |
| Rear Setback | 15 feet |
Berkeley BMC. Two-family residential zone — common in central Berkeley between campus and BART.
Height Limits
- Max Height
- 35 feet
- Max Stories
- 2
Berkeley BMC. Two-family residential.
Lot Coverage
- Max Coverage
- 55%
Berkeley BMC. Two-family residential.
Parking Requirements
Single-family: 1–2 spaces per dwelling. Berkeley has one of the lowest parking requirements of any Bay Area city — many flatland R-1 properties require only 1 space. Near BART, 0 spaces required for R-2 and higher zones. Multi-family: 0–1.5 spaces per unit depending on zone and BART proximity. Berkeley significantly reduced parking minimums in 2016 near transit corridors. Downtown Berkeley and BART-adjacent areas have no parking minimums.
Source: Berkeley Municipal Code Title 23, Section 23C.24.110 — Accessory Dwelling Units; California Government Code §§66314–66333 (Stats. 2024 Ch. 7 §20). Last verified April 6, 2026. View source