Purpose of the RM (Residential--Multiple Unit) Zones
San Diego Municipal Code § 131.0406
in effect(a)
The purpose of the RM zones is to provide for multiple dwelling unit
development at varying densities. The RM zones individually accommodate
developments with similar densities and characteristics. Each of the RM zones
is intended to establish development criteria that consolidates common
development regulations, accommodates specific dwelling types, and responds
to locational issues regarding adjacent land uses.
(b)
The RM zones are differentiated based on the uses allowed and the permitted
density as follows:
(1)
The following zones permit lower density multiple dwelling units with
some characteristics of single dwelling units:
•
RM-1-1 permits a maximum density of 1 dwelling unit for each
3,000 square feet of lot area
•
RM-1-2 permits a maximum density of 1 dwelling unit for each
2,500 square feet of lot area
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Chapter 13: Zones
(3-2026)
•
RM-1-3 permits a maximum density of 1 dwelling unit for each
2,000 square feet of lot area
(2)
The following zones permit medium density multiple dwelling units:
•
RM-2-4 permits a maximum density of 1 dwelling unit for each
1,750 square feet of lot area
•
RM-2-5 permits a maximum density of 1 dwelling unit for each
1,500 square feet of lot area
•
RM-2-6 permits a maximum density of 1 dwelling unit for each
1,250 square feet of lot area
(3)
The following zones permit medium density multiple dwelling units
with limited commercial uses:
•
RM-3-7 permits a maximum density of 1 dwelling unit for each
1,000 square feet of lot area
•
RM-3-8 permits a maximum density of 1 dwelling unit for each
800 square feet of lot area
•
RM-3-9 permits a maximum density of 1 dwelling unit for each
600 square feet of lot area
(4)
The following zones permit urbanized, high density multiple dwelling
units with limited commercial uses:
•
RM-4-10 permits a maximum density of 1 dwelling unit for
each 400 square feet of lot area
•
RM-4-11 permits a maximum density of 1 dwelling unit for
each 200 square feet of lot area
(5)
RM-5-12 permits visitor accommodations or medium density multiple
dwelling units at a maximum density of 1 dwelling unit for each 1,000
square feet of lot area.
Chapter 13: Zones
(3-2026)
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Source: amlegal_browserURL: https://codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/sanfrancisco/latest/sfplanning/Fetched: 6/28/2026