Long Beach, California Zoning & Land Use Guide
Sources checked· 2026-05-24
Last updated: Verified:
Key Zoning Facts
Regulatory Layers That Apply in Long Beach
Your property is subject to ALL of these regulatory layers. Each one can impose additional requirements beyond the others.
Federal
- FEMA flood mapping: check parcel-specific flood-zone status
- View FEMA Flood Map
- Coastal Zone: Yes
State — California
- Building Code: 2022 California Building Code (Title 24, based on 2021 IBC)
- Energy Code: 2022 California Energy Code (Title 24, Part 6)
- Seismic Zone: Zone 4 (high seismicity)
- State ADU Override: Yes (AB 68, SB 13, AB 881, AB 2221)
County — Los Angeles County
- Role: Regional planning coordination and unincorporated area regulation
City / Municipal
The municipality's zoning ordinance, building-code enforcement, and local permits form the primary local layer of land-use regulation for your property.
Overlay Districts
- Coastal Zone Overlay — Properties within the California Coastal Zone are subject to additional Coastal Commission review and development standards.
- PD (Planned Development) Overlay — Areas subject to specific planned development standards that may differ from underlying zoning.
Private Restrictions
- Private covenants, deed restrictions, condominium rules, or association rules can impose requirements beyond zoning.
- Some neighborhoods in Long Beach have active HOAs with CC&Rs that may impose restrictions beyond city zoning. Always check for recorded covenants.
Primary Zoning Districts
R-1-NSingle-Family Residential
- Min Lot
- 5,000 sq ft
- Max Height
- 28 ft / 2 stories
- Front Setback
- 20 ft
- Side Setback
- 5 ft
- Rear Setback
- 15 ft
R-2-NTwo-Family Residential
- Min Lot
- 5,000 sq ft
- Max Height
- 28 ft / 2 stories
- Front Setback
- 20 ft
- Side Setback
- 5 ft
- Rear Setback
- 15 ft
R-3Multi-Family Residential
- Min Lot
- 5,000 sq ft
- Max Height
- 38 ft / 3 stories
- Front Setback
- 15 ft
- Side Setback
- 5 ft
- Rear Setback
- 15 ft
- FAR
- 1.0
ADU Rules in Long Beach
ADUs:Allowed
- Max Size
- 1,200 sq ft
- Max Height
- 16 ft
- Rear Setback
- 4 ft
- Side Setback
- 4 ft
- Parking
- No additional parking required within 0.5 miles of public transit
- Owner Occupancy
- Not required per state law
- Permit Timeline
- 60 days for ministerial approval
Permit Costs & Timelines
Check Current Permit Fees & Timelines
Permit fees and review times can vary by project type, scope, valuation, and required approvals. Check the current schedule with the local permitting authority before filing.
Check current Long Beach permit information →Official Sources
City-specific
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main residential zoning districts in Long Beach?
Long Beach has several residential zones including R-1-N for single-family homes, R-2-N for duplexes, and R-3 for multi-family developments. Each zone has specific setback, height, and lot coverage requirements.
Can I build an ADU on my property in Long Beach?
Yes. Under California state law and Long Beach municipal code, ADUs are allowed on most residentially zoned lots. Detached ADUs can be up to 1,200 sq ft. The city must process ADU permits within 60 days through a ministerial (non-discretionary) review.
Does Long Beach require additional parking for ADUs?
No additional parking is required for ADUs located within half a mile of public transit. For other locations, the city generally follows state ADU parking provisions, which significantly limit local parking mandates.
Disclaimer: The information on this website is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. Zoning codes and building regulations change frequently. Always verify current requirements with your local planning department and building authority before making any decisions.