R-3 Zone in San Jose, CA
R-3 zoning district rules in San Jose, CA. Permitted uses, setbacks, height limits, and lot coverage requirements.
The R-3 zone in San Jose, 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 15 ft rear setback. Maximum building height is 45 feet (4 stories). Maximum lot coverage is 55%.
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 | 15 feet |
San Jose Municipal Code Title 20. R-3 = Multiple Family Residential. Allows apartments and condos.
Height Limits
- Max Height
- 45 feet
- Max Stories
- 4
San Jose Municipal Code Title 20. Multifamily residential — 45 ft maximum.
Lot Coverage
- Max Coverage
- 55%
San Jose Municipal Code Title 20. Multifamily residential zone allows higher building coverage.
Parking Requirements
Single-family: 2 covered spaces per single-family dwelling (garage required) in R-1 zones. Per San Jose Municipal Code Title 20. Multi-family: 1.5–2 spaces per unit in most R-3 and R-M zones. Reduced requirements near BART and VTA stations in Urban Village areas. Transit Proximity Overlay may eliminate minimums in some areas.
Source: San Jose Municipal Code Title 20; California Government Code Chapter 13 §§66314–66333 (Stats. 2024 Ch. 7 §20). Last verified April 5, 2026. View source