Santa Monica Zoning

C3 Zone in Santa Monica, CA

C3 zoning district rules in Santa Monica, CA. Permitted uses, setbacks, height limits, and lot coverage requirements.

Commercial DistrictRegional Commercial

The C3 zone in Santa Monica, CA is a commercial district (Regional Commercial). Permits large-scale retail and commercial uses serving a regional market area. Often applied to major shopping centers, auto malls, and regional service clusters.

Common Permitted Uses

  • Regional shopping centers
  • Auto dealerships
  • Big-box retail
  • Hotels

Permits large-scale retail and commercial uses serving a regional market area. Often applied to major shopping centers, auto malls, and regional service clusters.

Parking Requirements

Reduced requirements near downtown and transit. Downtown Santa Monica (Third Street Promenade area) has no parking minimums in the BCD zone. Shared parking and in-lieu parking fees available.

Source: Santa Monica Municipal Code Chapter 9.31.290 — Accessory Dwelling Units; California Government Code §§66314–66333 (Stats. 2024 Ch. 7 §20). Last verified April 6, 2026. View source

Last updated: April 6, 2026
C3 Zone in Santa Monica, CA — Permitted Uses & Rules | PropertyZoned