MU Zone in Santa Monica, CA
MU zoning district rules in Santa Monica, CA. Permitted uses, setbacks, height limits, and lot coverage requirements.
The MU zone in Santa Monica, CA is a mixed-use district (Mixed Use General). Permits a combination of residential and commercial uses within a single development or block. Ground floor typically commercial; upper floors residential. Promotes walkable, active streetscapes. Maximum building height is 65 feet (5 stories).
Common Permitted Uses
- Ground-floor retail
- Upper-floor apartments
- Live-work units
- Offices
- Restaurants
Permits a combination of residential and commercial uses within a single development or block. Ground floor typically commercial; upper floors residential. Promotes walkable, active streetscapes.
Height Limits
- Max Height
- 65 feet
- Max Stories
- 5
Santa Monica SMMC. Mixed-use zone near Metro E Line corridor — allows taller mixed-use buildings.
Parking Requirements
Santa Monica has an extensive Big Blue Bus network and the Metro E Line (Expo Line). The city actively reduces parking through a downtown parking structure program. EV charging required for new construction per California Title 24 Green Building Standards. Santa Monica charges some of California's highest parking garage rates to encourage transit use.
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