R1 Zone in Santa Monica, CA
R1 zoning district rules in Santa Monica, CA. Permitted uses, setbacks, height limits, and lot coverage requirements.
The R1 zone in Santa Monica, CA is a residential district (Single-Family Residential). Permits one dwelling unit per lot. Typically the most restrictive residential zone. Designed to preserve the character of established single-family neighborhoods. This zone requires a 20 ft front setback, 5 ft side setback, and 15 ft rear setback. Maximum building height is 28 feet (2 stories). Maximum lot coverage is 40%.
Common Permitted Uses
- Single-family homes
Permits one dwelling unit per lot. Typically the most restrictive residential zone. Designed to preserve the character of established single-family neighborhoods.
Setback Requirements
| Setback Type | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Front Setback | 20 feet |
| Side Setback | 5 feet |
| Rear Setback | 15 feet |
Santa Monica SMMC. R1 single-family zone in North of Montana and Sunset Park. Interior side setback 5 ft per side.
Height Limits
- Max Height
- 28 feet
- Max Stories
- 2
Santa Monica SMMC. R1 single-family limit. Neighbors actively monitor height compliance.
Lot Coverage
- Max Coverage
- 40%
Santa Monica SMMC. Single-family zone — preserves yard space in dense city.
Parking Requirements
Single-family: 2 covered spaces per single-family dwelling. Garage or carport required. Santa Monica's small lots sometimes make garage provision challenging — many properties have tandem garages. Multi-family: 1–2 spaces per unit. Significantly reduced or no minimum near Metro E Line stations (Downtown SM, 17th St/SMC, 26th St/Bergamot). Santa Monica has some of the lowest parking minimums in Southern California.
Source: Santa Monica Municipal Code Chapter 9.31.290 — Accessory Dwelling Units; California Government Code Section 65852.2. Last verified April 6, 2026. View source