R-3 Zone in Sacramento, CA
R-3 zoning district rules in Sacramento, CA. Permitted uses, setbacks, height limits, and lot coverage requirements.
The R-3 zone in Sacramento, CA is a residential district (Multi-Family Low Density). Permits multi-family housing at low density, typically up to 4 units. Allows triplexes and fourplexes in addition to single-family and duplex uses. This zone requires a 15 ft front setback, 5 ft side setback, and 10 ft rear setback. Maximum building height is 50 feet (4 stories). Maximum lot coverage is 60%.
Common Permitted Uses
- Single-family homes
- Duplexes
- Triplexes
- Fourplexes
Permits multi-family housing at low density, typically up to 4 units. Allows triplexes and fourplexes in addition to single-family and duplex uses.
Setback Requirements
| Setback Type | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Front Setback | 15 feet |
| Side Setback | 5 feet |
| Rear Setback | 10 feet |
Sacramento City Code Title 17. R-3 = Medium Density Multifamily. Allows mid-rise apartment buildings in transit corridors.
Height Limits
- Max Height
- 50 feet
- Max Stories
- 4
Sacramento City Code Title 17. Medium-density multifamily — 50 ft maximum height.
Lot Coverage
- Max Coverage
- 60%
Sacramento City Code Title 17. Medium-density multifamily allows 60% coverage.
Parking Requirements
Single-family: 2 spaces per single-family dwelling (at least 1 covered) in R-1 zones. Driveway may count as uncovered space. Sacramento City Code Title 17. Multi-family: 1–2 spaces per unit depending on zone and unit size. Reduced requirements near light rail stations and in TOD (Transit-Oriented Development) overlay zones. R-5 and TOD zones may have 0 minimum parking near Downtown.
Source: Sacramento City Code Title 17; California Government Code §§66314–66333 (Stats. 2024 Ch. 7 §20). Last verified April 5, 2026. View source