Santa Monica Zoning

R2B Zone in Santa Monica, CA

R2B zoning district rules in Santa Monica, CA. Permitted uses, setbacks, height limits, and lot coverage requirements.

Residential DistrictTwo-Family Residential

The R2B zone in Santa Monica, CA is a residential district (Two-Family Residential). Permits up to two dwelling units per lot (duplex). Allows slightly higher density than R-1 while maintaining low-density neighborhood character. This zone requires a 15 ft front setback, 5 ft side setback, and 15 ft rear setback. Maximum lot coverage is 55%.

Common Permitted Uses

  • Single-family homes
  • Duplexes

Permits up to two dwelling units per lot (duplex). Allows slightly higher density than R-1 while maintaining low-density neighborhood character.

Setback Requirements

Setback TypeRequirement
Front Setback15 feet
Side Setback5 feet
Rear Setback15 feet

Santa Monica SMMC. R2B is a transitional low-density multifamily zone near Ocean Park.

Lot Coverage

Max Coverage
55%

Santa Monica SMMC. Low-density multifamily transition zone.

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 §§66314–66333 (Stats. 2024 Ch. 7 §20). Last verified April 6, 2026. View source

Last updated: April 6, 2026
R2B Zone in Santa Monica, CA — Permitted Uses & Rules | PropertyZoned