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SDMC Ch.13 Art.1 Div.3 — Agricultural Base Zones

San Diego Municipal Code Ch.13 Art.1 Div.3 — Agricultural Base Zones

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  • p. 1

    San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (8-2025) Article 1: Base Zones Division 3: Agricultural Base Zones (Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.) §131.0301 Purpose of Agricultural Zones The purpose of the agricultural zones is to provide for areas that are rural in character or areas where agricultural uses are currently desirable. The agricultural zones are intended to accommodate a wide range of agriculture and agriculture-related uses as well as single dwelling units. (Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.) §131.0302 Purpose of the AG (Agricultural--General) Zones (a) The purpose of the AG zones is to accommodate all types of agricultural uses and some minor agricultural sales on a long-term basis. Nonagricultural uses are limited in the AG zones in order to strengthen the presence and retention of traditional agricultural uses. (b) The AG zones are differentiated based on the minimum lot size as follows: • AG-1-1 requires minimum 10-acre lots • AG-1-2 requires minimum 5-acre lots (Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.)

  • p. 1

    §131.0303 Purpose of the AR (Agricultural--Residential) Zones (a) The purpose of the AR zones is to accommodate a wide range of agricultural uses while also permitting the development of single dwelling unit homes at a very low density. The agricultural uses are limited to those of low intensity to minimize the potential conflicts with residential uses. This zone is applied to lands that are in agricultural use or that are undeveloped and not appropriate for more intense zoning. Residential development opportunities are permitted with a Planned Development Permit at various densities that will preserve land for open space or future development at urban intensities when and where appropriate. Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 3 1

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    San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (8-2025) (b) The AR zones are differentiated based on the minimum lot size as follows: • AR-1-1 requires minimum 10-acre lots • AR-1-2 requires minimum 1-acre lots (Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.) (Amended 10-18-1999 by O-18691 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.) §131.0315 Where Agricultural Zones Apply On the effective date of Ordinance O-18691, all agricultural zones that were established in Municipal Code Chapter 10, Article 1, Division 4 were amended and replaced with the base zones established in this division. (Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.) (Amended 11-13-2008 by O-19801 N.S.; effective 12-13-2008.) §131.0320 Use Regulations of Agricultural Zones The regulations of Section 131.0322 apply in the agricultural zones where indicated in Table 131-03B. (a) The uses permitted in any agricultural zone may be further limited by the following: (1) Section 131.0323 (Additional Use Regulations of Agricultural Zones); (2) Use limitations applicable to the Airport Land Use Compatibility

  • p. 2

    Overlay Zone (Chapter 13, Article 2, Division 15); or (3) The presence of environmentally sensitive lands, pursuant to Chapter 14, Article 3, Division 1 (Environmentally Sensitive Lands Regulations); or (4) Any other applicable provision of the San Diego Municipal Code. (b) Within the agricultural zones, no structure or improvement, or portion thereof, shall be constructed, established, or altered nor shall any premises be used or maintained except for one or more of the purposes or activities listed in Table 131-03B. It is unlawful to establish, maintain, or use any premises for any purpose or activity not listed in this section or Section 131.0322. (c) All uses or activities permitted in the agricultural zones shall be conducted entirely within an enclosed building unless the use or activity is traditionally conducted outdoors. Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 3 2

  • p. 3

    San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (8-2025) (d) Accessory uses in the agricultural zones may be permitted in accordance with Section 131.0125. (e) Temporary uses may be permitted in the agricultural zones for a limited period of time with a Temporary Use Permit in accordance with Chapter 12, Article 3, Division 4. (f) For any use that cannot be readily classified, the City Manager shall determine the appropriate use category and use subcategory pursuant to Section 131.0110. (Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.) (Amended 10-25-2011 by O-20047 N.S.; effective 1-1-2012.) (Amended 6-18-2013 by O-20261 N.S.; effective 7-19-2013.) §131.0322 Use Regulations Table for Agricultural Zones The uses allowed in the agricultural zones are shown in Table 131-03B. Legend for Table 131-03B Symbol in Description of Symbol Table 131-03B P Use or use category is permitted. Regulations pertaining to a specific use may be referenced. L Use is permitted with limitations, which may include location limitations or the requirement for a ` or development permit.

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    Regulations are located in Chapter 14, Article 1 (Separately Regulated Use Regulations). N Neighborhood Use Permit Required. Regulations are located in Chapter 14, Article 1 (Separately Regulated Use Regulations). C Conditional Use Permit Required. Regulations are located in Chapter 14, Article 1 (Separately Regulated Use Regulations). - Use or use category is not permitted. Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 3 3

  • p. 4

    San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (8-2025) Table 131-03B Use Regulations Table for Agricultural Zones Use Categories/Subcategories Zone Zones [See Section 131.0112 for an explanation and Designator descriptions of the Use Categories, 1st & 2nd AG AR Subcategories, and Separately Regulated >> Uses] 3rd >> 1- 1- 4th >> 1 2 1 2 Open Space Active Recreation - P Passive Recreation P P Natural Resources Preservation P P Park Maintenance Facilities - - Agriculture (4) (4) Agricultural Processing P P Aquaculture Facilities P P (8) Dairies P P (6) (6) Horticulture Nurseries & Greenhouses P P Raising & Harvesting of Crops P P (2) (2),(3) Raising, Maintaining & Keeping of Animals P P Separately Regulated Agriculture Uses Agricultural Equipment Repair Shops C - Commercial Stables C L Community Gardens L L Equestrian Show & Exhibition Facilities C C Open Air Markets for the Sale of Agriculture-Related L L Products & Flowers Residential Mobilehome Parks - - Multiple Dwelling Units - - Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 3 4

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    San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (8-2025) Use Categories/Subcategories Zone Zones [See Section 131.0112 for an explanation and Designator descriptions of the Use Categories, 1st & 2nd AG AR Subcategories, and Separately Regulated >> Uses] 3rd >> 1- 1- 4th >> 1 2 1 2 Rooming House [See Section 131.0112(a)(3)(A)] - - Shopkeeper Units - - - - (1) Single Dwelling Units P P Separately Regulated Residential Uses Accessory Dwelling Units - L Continuing Care Retirement Communities - C Employee Housing: (7) (7) 6 or fewer employees L L (7) (7) 12 or Fewer employees L L Greater than 12 employees N C Fraternities and Sororities - - Garage, Yard, & Estate Sales - L Guest Quarters - L Home Occupations - L Interim Ground Floor Residential - - Junior Accessory Dwelling Units L L Live/Work Quarters - - Low Barrier Navigation Centers - - Movable Tiny Houses - L Permanent Supportive Housing - - Residential Care Facilities: 6 or fewer persons - P 7 or more persons - C(10) Student Housing - - Transitional Housing: Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 3 5

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    San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (8-2025) Use Categories/Subcategories Zone Zones [See Section 131.0112 for an explanation and Designator descriptions of the Use Categories, 1st & 2nd AG AR Subcategories, and Separately Regulated >> Uses] 3rd >> 1- 1- 4th >> 1 2 1 2 6 or fewer persons - P 7 or more persons - C(10) Watchkeeper Quarters - - Institutional Separately Regulated Institutional Uses Airports - C Battery Energy Storage Facilities (13) Small Scale (≤ 0.25 acre) - C Medium Scale (0.25 acre < 1 acre) - - Large Scale (>1 acre) - - Botanical Gardens & Arboretums C C Cemeteries, Mausoleums, Crematories - C Correctional Placement Centers - - Educational Facilities: Kindergarten through Grade 12 - C Colleges / Universities - C Vocational / Trade School - - Electric Vehicle Charging Stations L L Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 3 6

  • p. 7

    San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (8-2025) Use Categories/Subcategories Zone Zones [See Section 131.0112 for an explanation and Designator descriptions of the Use Categories, 1st & 2nd AG AR Subcategories, and Separately Regulated >> Uses] 3rd >> 1- 1- 4th >> 1 2 1 2 Energy Generation & Distribution Facilities - C Exhibit Halls & Convention Facilities - - Flood Control Facilities L L Historical Buildings Used for Purposes Not Otherwise C C Allowed Homeless Facilities: Congregate Meal Facilities - - Emergency Shelters - - Homeless Day Centers - - Hospitals - C Intermediate Care Facilities & Nursing Facilities - C Interpretive Centers C (11) P (11) Museums - - Major Transmission, Relay, or Communications - C Switching Stations Placemaking on Private Property L L Outdoor Dining on Private Property - - Satellite Antennas L L Social Service Institutions - - Solar Energy Systems L L Wireless Communication Facilities See Section 141.0420 Retail Sales Building Supplies & Equipment - - Food, Beverages and Groceries - - Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 3 7

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    San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (8-2025) Use Categories/Subcategories Zone Zones [See Section 131.0112 for an explanation and Designator descriptions of the Use Categories, 1st & 2nd AG AR Subcategories, and Separately Regulated >> Uses] 3rd >> 1- 1- 4th >> 1 2 1 2 Consumer Goods, Furniture, Appliances, Equipment - - Pets & Pet Supplies - - Sundries, Pharmaceuticals, & Convenience Sales - - Wearing Apparel & Accessories - - Separately Regulated Retail Sales Uses Agriculture Related Supplies & Equipment C C Alcoholic Beverage Outlets - - Cannabis Outlets - - Farmers’ Markets Weekly Farmers’ Markets - - Daily Farmers’ Market Stands - - Plant Nurseries C C Retail Farms - - Retail Tasting Stores - - Swap Meets & Other Large Outdoor Retail Facilities - C Commercial Services Building Services - - Business Support - - Eating & Drinking Establishments - - Financial Institutions - - Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 3 8

  • p. 9

    San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (8-2025) Use Categories/Subcategories Zone Zones [See Section 131.0112 for an explanation and Designator descriptions of the Use Categories, 1st & 2nd AG AR Subcategories, and Separately Regulated >> Uses] 3rd >> 1- 1- 4th >> 1 2 1 2 Funeral & Mortuary Services - - Instructional Studios - - Maintenance & Repair - - Off-Site Services - - Personal Services - - Radio & Television Studios - - Tasting Rooms - - Visitor Accommodations - - Separately Regulated Commercial Services Uses Adult Day Care Facility - L Adult Entertainment Establishments: - - Adult Book Store - - Adult Cabaret - - Adult Drive-In Theater - - Adult Mini-Motion Picture Theater - - Adult Model Studio - - Adult Motel - - Adult Motion Picture Theater - - Adult Peep Show Theater - - Adult Theater - - Body Painting Studio - - Massage Establishment - - Sexual Encounter Establishment - - Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 3 9

  • p. 10

    San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (8-2025) Use Categories/Subcategories Zone Zones [See Section 131.0112 for an explanation and Designator descriptions of the Use Categories, 1st & 2nd AG AR Subcategories, and Separately Regulated >> Uses] 3rd >> 1- 1- 4th >> 1 2 1 2 Assembly and Entertainment Uses, Including Places of - C Religious Assembly Boarding Kennels / Pet Day Care - L Camping Parks - C Child Care Facilities: Child Care Centers - C Large Family Child Care Homes - L Small Family Child Care Homes - L Eating and Drinking Establishments with a Drive-in or - - Drive-through Component Fairgrounds - C Golf Courses, Driving Ranges, and Pitch & Putt - C Courses Helicopter Landing Facilities - C Massage Establishments, Specialized Practice - - (12) Mobile Food Trucks - L Nightclubs & Bars over 5,000 square feet in size - - Parking Facilities as a Primary Use: Permanent Parking Facilities - - Temporary Parking Facilities - - Private Clubs, Lodges and Fraternal Organizations - - Privately Operated, Outdoor Recreation Facilities over - C (5) 40,000 square feet in size

  • p. 10

    Pushcarts on Private Property - - Recycling Facilities: Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 3 10

  • p. 11

    San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (8-2025) Use Categories/Subcategories Zone Zones [See Section 131.0112 for an explanation and Designator descriptions of the Use Categories, 1st & 2nd AG AR Subcategories, and Separately Regulated >> Uses] 3rd >> 1- 1- 4th >> 1 2 1 2 (9) Large Collection Facility - N Small Collection Facility - L Large Construction & Demolition Debris Recycling - - Facility Small Construction & Demolition Debris Recycling - - Facility Drop-off Facility - - Green Materials Composting Facility L N Mixed Organic Composting Facility C C Large Processing Facility Accepting at Least 98% - - of Total Annual Weight of Recyclables from Commercial & Industrial Traffic Large Processing Facility Accepting All Types of - - Traffic Small Processing Facility Accepting at Least 98% - - of Total Annual Weight of Recyclables From Commercial & Industrial Traffic Small Processing Facility Accepting All Types of - - Traffic Reverse Vending Machines - - Tire Processing Facility - - Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 3 11

  • p. 12

    San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (8-2025) Use Categories/Subcategories Zone Zones [See Section 131.0112 for an explanation and Designator descriptions of the Use Categories, 1st & 2nd AG AR Subcategories, and Separately Regulated >> Uses] 3rd >> 1- 1- 4th >> 1 2 1 2 Sidewalk Cafes, Streetaries, and Active Sidewalks - - Sports Arenas & Stadiums - - Theaters that are outdoor or over 5,000 square feet in - - size Urgent Care Facilities - - Veterinary Clinics & Animal Hospitals - L Zoological Parks C C Offices Business & Professional - - Government - - Medical, Dental, & Health Practitioner - - Regional & Corporate Headquarters - - Separately Regulated Office Uses Real Estate Sales Offices & Model Homes - L Sex Offender Treatment & Counseling - - Vehicle & Vehicular Equipment Sales & Service Commercial Vehicle Repair & Maintenance - - Commercial Vehicle Sales & Rentals - - Personal Vehicle Repair & Maintenance - - Personal Vehicle Sales & Rentals - - Vehicle Equipment & Supplies Sales & Rentals - - Separately Regulated Vehicle & Vehicular Equipment Sales & Service Uses

  • p. 12

    Automobile Service Stations - - Outdoor Storage & Display of New, Unregistered Motor - - Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 3 12

  • p. 13

    San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (8-2025) Use Categories/Subcategories Zone Zones [See Section 131.0112 for an explanation and Designator descriptions of the Use Categories, 1st & 2nd AG AR Subcategories, and Separately Regulated >> Uses] 3rd >> 1- 1- 4th >> 1 2 1 2 Vehicles as a Primary Use Vehicle Storage Facilities as a Primary Use - - Distribution and Storage Equipment & Materials Storage Yards - - Moving & Storage Facilities - - Distribution Facilities - - Separately Regulated Distribution and Storage Uses Junk Yards - - Temporary Construction Storage Yards Located Off- - N Site Industrial Heavy Manufacturing - - Light Manufacturing - - Marine Industry - - Research & Development - - Testing Labs - - Trucking & Transportation Terminals - - Separately Regulated Industrial Uses Artisan Food and Beverage Producer - - Cannabis Production Facilities - - (9) Hazardous Waste Research Facility - C (9) Hazardous Waste Treatment Facility - C Marine Related Uses Within the Coastal Overlay Zone - - Mining and Extractive Industries - C Newspaper Publishing Plants - - Ch. Art. Div.

  • p. 14

    San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (8-2025) Use Categories/Subcategories Zone Zones [See Section 131.0112 for an explanation and Designator descriptions of the Use Categories, 1st & 2nd AG AR Subcategories, and Separately Regulated >> Uses] 3rd >> 1- 1- 4th >> 1 2 1 2 Processing & Packaging of Plant Products & Animal C - By-products Grown Off-premises Very Heavy Industrial Uses - - Wrecking & Dismantling of Motor Vehicles - - Signs Allowable Signs L L Separately Regulated Signs Uses Community Entry Signs L L Comprehensive Sign Program N N Revolving Projecting Signs - - Signs with Automatic Changing Copy - - Theater Marquees - - Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 3 14

  • p. 15

    San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (8-2025) Footnotes for Table 131-03B 1 This use is permitted only as an accessory use to a permitted agricultural use. 2 Maintaining, raising, feeding, or keeping of 10 or more domestic animals requires a premises of at least 5 acres. 3 Excludes maintaining, raising, feeding, or keeping of swine. 4 See Section 131.0323(a). 5 The 40,000 square feet includes all indoor and outdoor areas that are devoted to the recreational use; it does not include customer parking areas. 6 See Section 131.0323(b). 7 For housing 6 or fewer employees, see Section 141.0304 to determine which use regulations apply. 8 Dairies require a premises of at least 5 acres. 9 This use is not allowed within the Coastal Overlay Zone 10 Not permitted within the following Special Flood Hazard Areas in the Coastal Overlay Zone: San Dieguito River, Carmel Creek, Los Penasquitos Lagoon, Los Penasquitos Creek, the Otay River and the Tijuana River. 11 Interpretive centers are not permitted within floodplains located in agriculturally zoned areas of the

  • p. 15

    Coastal Overlay Zone. 12 This use is permitted by right on the property of a school, university, hospital, religious facility, or construction site, and is permitted as a limited use where accessory to commercial development, and designed and operated in compliance with Section 141.0612. 13 See Section 141.0422. (Amended 8-10-2004 by O-19308 N.S.; effective 4-11-2007.) (Amended 4-23-2008 by O-19739 N.S.; effective 5-23-2008.) (Amended 11-13-2008 by O-19799 N.S; effective 12-13-2008.) (Amended 11-13-2008 by O-19803 N.S; effective 12-13-2008.) (Amended 11-13-2008 by O-19804 N.S; effective 12-13-2008.) (Amended 8-4-2011 by O-20081 N.S.; effective 10-6-2011.) (Amended 2-22-2012 by O-20141 N.S.; effective 3-23-2012.) (Amended 6-18-2013 by O-20261 N.S.; effective 7-19-2013.) (Amended 3-25-2014 by O-20356 N.S.; effective 4-24-2014.) (Amended 4-3-2014 by O-20357 N.S.; effective 10-15-2014.) Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 3 15

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    San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (8-2025) (Amended 5-5-2015 by O-20481 N.S.; effective 6-4-2015.) (Amended 7-10-2015 by O-20512 N.S.; effective 8-9-2015.) (Amended 8-7-2015 by O-20555 N.S.; effective 9-6-2015.) (Amended 4-5-2016 by O-20634 N.S.; effective 5-5-2016.) (Amended 8-4-2016 by O-20704 N.S.; effective 8-27-2016.) (Amended 2-22-2017 by O-20793 N.S.; effective 4-12-2017.) (Amended 9-15-2017 by O-20857 N.S.; effective 10-15-2017.) (Amended 10-17-2017 by O-20859 N.S.; effective 11-16-2017.) (Amended 3-22-2018 by O-20917 N.S.; effective 4-21-2018.) (Amended 5-22-2018 by O-20928 N.S.; effective 6-21-2018.) (Amended 8-9-2019 by O-21114 N.S. and O-21117 N.S.; effective 9-8-2019.) (Amended 1-8-2020 by O-21163 N.S. and O-21164 N.S.; effective 2-9-2020.) (Amended 8-12-2020 by O-21223 N.S.; effective 10-8-2020.) (Amended 10-30-2020 by O-21254 N.S.; effective 11-29-2020.) (Amended 2-1-2021 by O-21288 N.S.; effective 3-3-2021.) (Amended 4-14-2021 by O-21305 N.S.; effective 5-29-2021.) (Amended 11-23-2021 by O-21391 N.S.; effective 1-6-2022.)

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    (Amended 5-23-2022 by O-21458 N.S.; effective 6-22-2022.) (Amended 3-7-2023 by O-21618 N.S.; effective 5-6-2023.) (Amended 7-22-2024 by O-21836 N.S.; effective 10-5-2024.) [Editors Note: Amendments as adopted by O-21836 N.S. will not apply within the Coastal Overlay Zone until the California Coastal Commission certifies it as a Local Coastal Program Amendment. Click the link to view the Strikeout Ordinance highlighting changes to prior language http://docs.sandiego.gov/municode_strikeout_ord/O-21836-SO.pdf ] (Amended 12-18-2024 by O-21905 N.S.; effective 2-6-2025.) (Amended 7-23-2025 by O-21989 N.S.; effective 8-22-2025.) [Editors Note: Amendments as adopted by O-21989 N.S. will not apply within the Coastal Overlay Zone until the California Coastal Commission certifies it as a Local Coastal Program Amendment. Click the link to view the Strikeout Ordinance highlighting changes to prior language http://docs.sandiego.gov/municode_strikeout_ord/O-21989-SO.pdf ] Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 3 16

  • p. 17

    San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (8-2025) §131.0323 Additional Use Regulations of Agricultural Zones The additional use regulations identified in this section are applicable to uses where indicated in Table 131-03B. (a) Agricultural processing is permitted as an accessory use subject to the following: (1) The processing must be accessory to a primary agricultural use located on the same premises; (2) At least 60 percent of the products to be processed must be produced on the same premises; and (3) Killing or dressing of animals other than poultry, fowl, or rabbits raised on the same premises is not permitted. Any building used for this purpose shall not be closer than 50 feet to any property line. (b) Horticulture nurseries are permitted subject to the following: (1) Only plants are permitted to be sold on the premises. The sale of non- plant items requires a Conditional Use Permit for a plant nursery in accordance with Section 141.0505; (2) At least 75 percent of the plants available for sale must be propagated or grown from saplings on the premises; and

  • p. 17

    (3) The only buildings permitted on the premises are greenhouses, maintenance equipment storage buildings, and one building with a maximum area of 300 square feet for sales transactions. (Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; amended 10-18-1999 by O-18691 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.) (Amended 2-22-2012 by O-20141 N.S.; effective 3-23-2012.) (Amended 6-18-2013 by O-20261 N.S.; effective 7-19-2013.) (Amended 2-22-2017 by O-20793 N.S.; effective 4-12-2017.) Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 3 17

  • p. 18

    San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (8-2025) §131.0330 Development Regulations of Agricultural Zones (a) Within the agricultural zones, no structure or improvement shall be constructed, established, or altered, nor shall any premises be used unless the premises complies with the regulations and standards in this division and with any applicable development regulations in Chapter 13, Article 2 (Overlay Zones) and Chapter 14 (General and Supplemental Regulations). (b) A Neighborhood Development Permit or Site Development Permit is required for the types of development identified in Table 143-03A. (c) The regulations in this division apply to all development in the agricultural base zones whether or not a permit or other approval is required except where specifically identified. (d) For development within the Del Mar Mesa Specific Plan area the development regulations identified in the Del Mar Mesa Specific Plan adopted on May 27, 1997 by Ordinance O-18337 shall apply. (Amended 1-9-2001 by O-18910 N.S.; effective 8-8-2001.) Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 3 18

  • p. 19

    San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (8-2025) §131.0331 Development Regulations Table for Agricultural Zones The following development regulations apply in the agricultural zones as shown in Table 131-03C. Table 131-03C Development Regulations for Agricultural Zones Development Regulations Zone Zones [See Section 131.0330 for Designator Development Regulations of 1st & 2nd >> AG AR Agricultural Zones] 3rd >> 1- 1- 1- 1- 4th >> 1 2 1 2 (1) (1) (2) (3) Max Permitted Residential Density (DU Per Lot) 1 1 1 1 Min Lot Area (ac) 10 5 10 1 Min Lot Dimensions (4) Lot Width (ft) 200 200 200 100 (5) Street Frontage (ft) 200 200 200 100 Lot Depth (ft) 200 200 200 150 Setback Requirements [See Section 131.0343] Min Front Setback (ft) 25 25 25 25 Min Side Setback(ft) 20 20 20 20 Min Rear Setback (ft) 25 25 25 25 Max Structure Height (ft) 30 30 30 30 [See Section 131.0344] (7) Max Lot Coverage (%) 10 20 10 20 (6) Min Floor Area applies applies applies applies Refuse and Recyclable Material Storage applies applies applies applies [See Section 142.0805]

  • p. 19

    Visibility Area [See Section 113.0273] applies applies applies applies Dwelling Unit Protection Regulations [See applies applies applies applies Chapter 14, Article 3, Division 12] Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 3 19

  • p. 20

    San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (8-2025) Footnotes for Table 131-03C 1 A single dwelling unit is permitted only as an accessory use to a permitted agricultural use on the same premises. 2 See Section 131.0340(a). 3 See Section 131.0340(b). 4 See Section 131.0342(a). 5 See Section 131.0342(b). 6 Each dwelling unit shall have a gross floor area of at least 650 square feet, not including the garage. 7 Structures that are used to provide shade areas for growing plants, such as green houses and agricultural shade structures, are not included for determining lot coverage. (Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.) (Amended 10-18-1999 by O-18691 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000) (Amended 6-19-2000 by O-18814 N.S.) (Amended 11-13-2008 by O-19799 N.S; effective 12-13-2008.) (Amended 11-13-2008 by O-19801 N.S.; effective 12-13-2008.) (Amended 4-5-2016 by O-20634 N.S.; effective 5-5-2016.) (Amended 10-30-2020 by O-21254 N.S.; effective 11-29-2020.) §131.0340 Maximum Permitted Residential Density in Agricultural Zones

  • p. 20

    (a) Within the AR-1-1 zone, an exception to the permitted residential density of one single dwelling unit per lot may be requested as a rural cluster development through a Planned Development Permit in accordance with Process Four subject to the following: (1) The proposed development shall comply with Chapter 14, Article 3, Division 4 (Planned Development Permit Regulations). (2) Dwelling units shall be clustered and need not be located on individual lots provided the overall density does not exceed one dwelling unit per 10 acres, except as described in Section 131.0340(a)(4). Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 3 20

  • p. 21

    San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (8-2025) (3) The remainder of the premises shall be left undeveloped until and if complete development at urban intensity is appropriate. (4) Within Proposition A Lands except within the Del Mar Mesa Specific Plan area, an increase in density of up to one dwelling unit pe 4 acres of lot area may be requested through a Planned Development Permit in accordance with Process Five subject to the regulations in Section 143.0402. The remainder of the premises shall be left undeveloped in perpetuity. For development within the Del Mar Mesa Specific Plan area, the rural cluster option is not available, and the maximum permitted density is that identified in the Del Mar Mesa Specific Plan adopted on May 27, 1997 by Ordinance O-18377. (b) Within the AR-1-2 zone, an exception to the permitted residential density of one single dwelling unit per lot may be requested as a rural cluster development through a Planned Development Permit in accordance with Process Four subject to the following:

  • p. 21

    (1) The proposed development shall comply with Chapter 14, Article 3, Division 4 (Planned Development Permit Regulations). (2) Dwelling units shall be clustered and need not be located on individual lots provided the overall density does not exceed one dwelling unit per acre. (3) The remainder of the premises shall be left undeveloped until and if complete development at urban intensity is appropriate. (Amended 1-9-2001 by O-18910 N.S.; effective 8-8-2001.) (Amended 4-8-2008 by O-19734 N.S; effective 5-8-2008.) §131.0342 Minimum Lot Dimensions in Agricultural Zones (a) In the AR-1-2 zone, the front 25 percent of a lot may be tapered to coincide with the street frontage permitted in accordance with Section 131.0342(b) if that lot abuts the end of a public right-of-way where no provision is made for its future extension. (b) In the AR-1-2 zone, the required street frontage may be reduced to 60 feet for lots located at the end of a street where no provision is made for its future extension. (Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.) Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 3 21

  • p. 22

    San Diego Municipal Code Chapter 13: Zones (8-2025) §131.0343 Setback Requirements in Agricultural Zones (a) The minimum side setback for a legal lot that existed on the effective date of this section and that has less than the minimum lot width specified in Table 131-03C, is 10 percent of the width of the lot or 5 feet, whichever is greater. (b) Architectural projections and encroachments may be permitted in accordance with the regulations in Section 131.0461 for lots in Agricultural-Residential (AR) zones that are one acre or less in lot area. (Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.) (Amended 11-13-2008 by O-19801 N.S.; effective 12-13-2008.) §131.0344 Maximum Structure Height in Agricultural Zones A structure may exceed the 30-foot structure height limit if the front, side, and rear setbacks are each increased by 10 feet for each 10 feet, or portion thereof, of structure height above 30 feet, except as limited by the regulations in Chapter 13, Article 2 (Overlay Zones). (Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; effective 1-1-2000.) Ch. Art. Div. 13 1 3 22

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Extracted tables (2)

Reference tables (2)

Table 131-03B — Use Regulations Table for Agricultural Zones

Table Capture v1.2

SDMC §131.0322 Use Regulations Table for Agricultural Zones (Ch.13, Art.1, Div.3). Legend: P = Use or use category is permitted (regulations pertaining to a specific use may be referenced); L = Use is permitted with limitations, which may include location limitations or the requirement for a permit or development permit (regulations in Chapter 14, Article 1 — Separately Regulated Use Regulations); N = Neighborhood Use Permit Required (Chapter 14, Article 1); C = Conditional Use Permit Required (Chapter 14, Article 1); - = Use or use category is not permitted. Zone-column note: the PDF header lists base-zone designators AG (sub-designators 1-1, 1-2) and AR (sub-designators 1-1, 1-2); in the Use Regulations table the use values render in two columns (AG and AR), i.e. the AG-1-1/AG-1-2 zones share the same use regulations and the AR-1-1/AR-1-2 zones share the same use regulations. See Section 131.0112 for an explanation and descriptions of the Use Categories, Subcategories, and Separately Regulated Uses.

Use CategoryUseAGAR
Open SpaceActive Recreation-P
Open SpacePassive RecreationPP
Open SpaceNatural Resources PreservationPP
Open SpacePark Maintenance Facilities--
AgricultureAgricultural Processing «(4)»PP
AgricultureAquaculture FacilitiesPP
AgricultureDairies «(8)»PP
AgricultureHorticulture Nurseries & Greenhouses «(6)»PP
AgricultureRaising & Harvesting of Crops «(2),(3)»PP
AgricultureRaising, Maintaining & Keeping of AnimalsPP
AgricultureSeparately Regulated Agriculture Uses
AgricultureAgricultural Equipment Repair ShopsC-
AgricultureCommercial StablesCL
AgricultureCommunity GardensLL
AgricultureEquestrian Show & Exhibition FacilitiesCC
AgricultureOpen Air Markets for the Sale of Agriculture-Related Products & FlowersLL
ResidentialMobilehome Parks--
ResidentialMultiple Dwelling Units--
ResidentialRooming House [See Section 131.0112(a)(3)(A)]--
ResidentialShopkeeper Units--
ResidentialSingle Dwelling Units «(1)»PP
ResidentialSeparately Regulated Residential Uses
ResidentialAccessory Dwelling Units-L
ResidentialContinuing Care Retirement Communities-C
ResidentialEmployee Housing:
ResidentialEmployee Housing: 6 or fewer employees «(7)»LL
ResidentialEmployee Housing: 12 or Fewer employees «(7)»LL
ResidentialEmployee Housing: Greater than 12 employeesNC
ResidentialFraternities and Sororities--
ResidentialGarage, Yard, & Estate Sales-L
ResidentialGuest Quarters-L
ResidentialHome Occupations-L
ResidentialInterim Ground Floor Residential--
ResidentialJunior Accessory Dwelling UnitsLL
ResidentialLive/Work Quarters--
ResidentialLow Barrier Navigation Centers--
ResidentialMovable Tiny Houses-L
ResidentialPermanent Supportive Housing--
ResidentialResidential Care Facilities:
ResidentialResidential Care Facilities: 6 or fewer persons-P
ResidentialResidential Care Facilities: 7 or more persons-C«(10)»
ResidentialStudent Housing--
ResidentialTransitional Housing:
ResidentialTransitional Housing: 6 or fewer persons-P
ResidentialTransitional Housing: 7 or more persons-C«(10)»
ResidentialWatchkeeper Quarters--
InstitutionalSeparately Regulated Institutional Uses
InstitutionalAirports-C
InstitutionalBattery Energy Storage Facilities «(1),(3)»
InstitutionalBattery Energy Storage Facilities: Small Scale (≤ 0.25 acre)-C
InstitutionalBattery Energy Storage Facilities: Medium Scale (0.25 acre < 1 acre)--
InstitutionalBattery Energy Storage Facilities: Large Scale (>1 acre)--
InstitutionalBotanical Gardens & ArboretumsCC
InstitutionalCemeteries, Mausoleums, Crematories-C
InstitutionalCorrectional Placement Centers--
InstitutionalEducational Facilities:
InstitutionalEducational Facilities: Kindergarten through Grade 12-C
InstitutionalEducational Facilities: Colleges / Universities-C
InstitutionalEducational Facilities: Vocational / Trade School--
InstitutionalElectric Vehicle Charging StationsLL
InstitutionalEnergy Generation & Distribution Facilities-C
InstitutionalExhibit Halls & Convention Facilities--
InstitutionalFlood Control FacilitiesLL
InstitutionalHistorical Buildings Used for Purposes Not Otherwise AllowedCC
InstitutionalHomeless Facilities:
InstitutionalHomeless Facilities: Congregate Meal Facilities--
InstitutionalHomeless Facilities: Emergency Shelters--
InstitutionalHomeless Facilities: Homeless Day Centers--
InstitutionalHospitals-C
InstitutionalIntermediate Care Facilities & Nursing Facilities-C
InstitutionalInterpretive CentersC«(11)»P«(11)»
InstitutionalMuseums--
InstitutionalMajor Transmission, Relay, or Communications Switching Stations-C
InstitutionalPlacemaking on Private PropertyLL
InstitutionalOutdoor Dining on Private Property--
InstitutionalSatellite AntennasLL
InstitutionalSocial Service Institutions--
InstitutionalSolar Energy SystemsLL
InstitutionalWireless Communication FacilitiesSee Section 141.0420See Section 141.0420
Retail SalesBuilding Supplies & Equipment--
Retail SalesFood, Beverages and Groceries--
Retail SalesConsumer Goods, Furniture, Appliances, Equipment--
Retail SalesPets & Pet Supplies--
Retail SalesSundries, Pharmaceuticals, & Convenience Sales--
Retail SalesWearing Apparel & Accessories--
Retail SalesSeparately Regulated Retail Sales Uses
Retail SalesAgriculture Related Supplies & EquipmentCC
Retail SalesAlcoholic Beverage Outlets--
Retail SalesCannabis Outlets--
Retail SalesFarmers' Markets
Retail SalesFarmers' Markets: Weekly Farmers' Markets--
Retail SalesFarmers' Markets: Daily Farmers' Market Stands--
Retail SalesPlant NurseriesCC
Retail SalesRetail Farms--
Retail SalesRetail Tasting Stores--
Retail SalesSwap Meets & Other Large Outdoor Retail Facilities-C
Commercial ServicesBuilding Services--
Commercial ServicesBusiness Support--
Commercial ServicesEating & Drinking Establishments--
Commercial ServicesFinancial Institutions--
Commercial ServicesFuneral & Mortuary Services--
Commercial ServicesInstructional Studios--
Commercial ServicesMaintenance & Repair--
Commercial ServicesOff-Site Services--
Commercial ServicesPersonal Services--
Commercial ServicesRadio & Television Studios--
Commercial ServicesTasting Rooms--
Commercial ServicesVisitor Accommodations--
Commercial ServicesSeparately Regulated Commercial Services Uses
Commercial ServicesAdult Day Care Facility-L
Commercial ServicesAdult Entertainment Establishments:--
Commercial ServicesAdult Entertainment Establishments: Adult Book Store--
Commercial ServicesAdult Entertainment Establishments: Adult Cabaret--
Commercial ServicesAdult Entertainment Establishments: Adult Drive-In Theater--
Commercial ServicesAdult Entertainment Establishments: Adult Mini-Motion Picture Theater--
Commercial ServicesAdult Entertainment Establishments: Adult Model Studio--
Commercial ServicesAdult Entertainment Establishments: Adult Motel--
Commercial ServicesAdult Entertainment Establishments: Adult Motion Picture Theater--
Commercial ServicesAdult Entertainment Establishments: Adult Peep Show Theater--
Commercial ServicesAdult Entertainment Establishments: Adult Theater--
Commercial ServicesAdult Entertainment Establishments: Body Painting Studio--
Commercial ServicesAdult Entertainment Establishments: Massage Establishment--
Commercial ServicesAdult Entertainment Establishments: Sexual Encounter Establishment--
Commercial ServicesAssembly and Entertainment Uses, Including Places of Religious Assembly-C
Commercial ServicesBoarding Kennels / Pet Day Care-L
Commercial ServicesCamping Parks-C
Commercial ServicesChild Care Facilities:
Commercial ServicesChild Care Facilities: Child Care Centers-C
Commercial ServicesChild Care Facilities: Large Family Child Care Homes-L
Commercial ServicesChild Care Facilities: Small Family Child Care Homes-L
Commercial ServicesEating and Drinking Establishments with a Drive-in or Drive-through Component--
Commercial ServicesFairgrounds-C
Commercial ServicesGolf Courses, Driving Ranges, and Pitch & Putt Courses-C
Commercial ServicesHelicopter Landing Facilities-C
Commercial ServicesMassage Establishments, Specialized Practice--
Commercial ServicesMobile Food Trucks «(12)»-L
Commercial ServicesNightclubs & Bars over 5,000 square feet in size--
Commercial ServicesParking Facilities as a Primary Use:
Commercial ServicesParking Facilities as a Primary Use: Permanent Parking Facilities--
Commercial ServicesParking Facilities as a Primary Use: Temporary Parking Facilities--
Commercial ServicesPrivate Clubs, Lodges and Fraternal Organizations--
Commercial ServicesPrivately Operated, Outdoor Recreation Facilities over 40,000 square feet in size «(5)»-C
Commercial ServicesPushcarts on Private Property--
Commercial ServicesRecycling Facilities:
Commercial ServicesRecycling Facilities: Large Collection Facility «(9)»-N
Commercial ServicesRecycling Facilities: Small Collection Facility-L
Commercial ServicesRecycling Facilities: Large Construction & Demolition Debris Recycling Facility--
Commercial ServicesRecycling Facilities: Small Construction & Demolition Debris Recycling Facility--
Commercial ServicesRecycling Facilities: Drop-off Facility--
Commercial ServicesRecycling Facilities: Green Materials Composting FacilityLN
Commercial ServicesRecycling Facilities: Mixed Organic Composting FacilityCC
Commercial ServicesRecycling Facilities: Large Processing Facility Accepting at Least 98% of Total Annual Weight of Recyclables from Commercial & Industrial Traffic--
Commercial ServicesRecycling Facilities: Large Processing Facility Accepting All Types of Traffic--
Commercial ServicesRecycling Facilities: Small Processing Facility Accepting at Least 98% of Total Annual Weight of Recyclables From Commercial & Industrial Traffic--
Commercial ServicesRecycling Facilities: Small Processing Facility Accepting All Types of Traffic--
Commercial ServicesRecycling Facilities: Reverse Vending Machines--
Commercial ServicesRecycling Facilities: Tire Processing Facility--
Commercial ServicesSidewalk Cafes, Streetaries, and Active Sidewalks--
Commercial ServicesSports Arenas & Stadiums--
Commercial ServicesTheaters that are outdoor or over 5,000 square feet in size--
Commercial ServicesUrgent Care Facilities--
Commercial ServicesVeterinary Clinics & Animal Hospitals-L
Commercial ServicesZoological ParksCC
OfficesBusiness & Professional--
OfficesGovernment--
OfficesMedical, Dental, & Health Practitioner--
OfficesRegional & Corporate Headquarters--
OfficesSeparately Regulated Office Uses
OfficesReal Estate Sales Offices & Model Homes-L
OfficesSex Offender Treatment & Counseling--
Vehicle & Vehicular Equipment Sales & ServiceCommercial Vehicle Repair & Maintenance--
Vehicle & Vehicular Equipment Sales & ServiceCommercial Vehicle Sales & Rentals--
Vehicle & Vehicular Equipment Sales & ServicePersonal Vehicle Repair & Maintenance--
Vehicle & Vehicular Equipment Sales & ServicePersonal Vehicle Sales & Rentals--
Vehicle & Vehicular Equipment Sales & ServiceVehicle Equipment & Supplies Sales & Rentals--
Vehicle & Vehicular Equipment Sales & ServiceSeparately Regulated Vehicle & Vehicular Equipment Sales & Service Uses
Vehicle & Vehicular Equipment Sales & ServiceAutomobile Service Stations--
Vehicle & Vehicular Equipment Sales & ServiceOutdoor Storage & Display of New, Unregistered Motor Vehicles as a Primary Use--
Vehicle & Vehicular Equipment Sales & ServiceVehicle Storage Facilities as a Primary Use--
Distribution and StorageEquipment & Materials Storage Yards--
Distribution and StorageMoving & Storage Facilities--
Distribution and StorageDistribution Facilities--
Distribution and StorageSeparately Regulated Distribution and Storage Uses
Distribution and StorageJunk Yards--
Distribution and StorageTemporary Construction Storage Yards Located Off-Site-N
IndustrialHeavy Manufacturing--
IndustrialLight Manufacturing--
IndustrialMarine Industry--
IndustrialResearch & Development--
IndustrialTesting Labs--
IndustrialTrucking & Transportation Terminals--
IndustrialSeparately Regulated Industrial Uses
IndustrialArtisan Food and Beverage Producer--
IndustrialCannabis Production Facilities--
IndustrialHazardous Waste Research Facility «(9)»-C
IndustrialHazardous Waste Treatment Facility «(9)»-C
IndustrialMarine Related Uses Within the Coastal Overlay Zone--
IndustrialMining and Extractive Industries-C
IndustrialNewspaper Publishing Plants--
IndustrialProcessing & Packaging of Plant Products & Animal By-products Grown Off-premisesC-
IndustrialVery Heavy Industrial Uses--
IndustrialWrecking & Dismantling of Motor Vehicles--
SignsAllowable SignsLL
SignsSeparately Regulated Signs Uses
SignsCommunity Entry SignsLL
SignsComprehensive Sign ProgramNN
SignsRevolving Projecting Signs--
SignsSigns with Automatic Changing Copy--
SignsTheater Marquees--

(1) This use is permitted only as an accessory use to a permitted agricultural use.

(2) Maintaining, raising, feeding, or keeping of 10 or more domestic animals requires a premises of at least 5 acres.

(3) Excludes maintaining, raising, feeding, or keeping of swine.

(4) See Section 131.0323(a).

(5) The 40,000 square feet includes all indoor and outdoor areas that are devoted to the recreational use; it does not include customer parking areas.

(6) See Section 131.0323(b).

(7) For housing 6 or fewer employees, see Section 141.0304 to determine which use regulations apply.

(8) Dairies require a premises of at least 5 acres.

(9) This use is not allowed within the Coastal Overlay Zone

(10) Not permitted within the following Special Flood Hazard Areas in the Coastal Overlay Zone: San Dieguito River, Carmel Creek, Los Penasquitos Lagoon, Los Penasquitos Creek, the Otay River and the Tijuana River.

(11) Interpretive centers are not permitted within floodplains located in agriculturally zoned areas of the Coastal Overlay Zone.

(12) This use is permitted by right on the property of a school, university, hospital, religious facility, or construction site, and is permitted as a limited use where accessory to commercial development, and designed and operated in compliance with Section 141.0612.

(13) See Section 141.0422.

Table 131-03C — Development Regulations for Agricultural Zones

Table Capture v1.2

SDMC §131.0331 Development Regulations Table for Agricultural Zones (Ch.13, Art.1, Div.3). [See Section 131.0330 for Development Regulations of Agricultural Zones.] The following development regulations apply in the agricultural zones as shown. Zone columns are the four base-zone designators AG-1-1, AG-1-2, AR-1-1, AR-1-2 (header: 1st & 2nd = AG, AR; 3rd = 1-, 1-, 1-, 1-; 4th = 1, 2, 1, 2). Value 'applies' means the referenced regulation applies in that zone.

RegulationAG-1-1AG-1-2AR-1-1AR-1-2
Max Permitted Residential Density (DU Per Lot) «(1),(2),(3)»1111
Min Lot Area (ac)105101
Min Lot Dimensions
Lot Width (ft) «(4)»200200200100
Street Frontage (ft) «(5)»200200200100
Lot Depth (ft)200200200150
Setback Requirements [See Section 131.0343]
Min Front Setback (ft)25252525
Min Side Setback (ft)20202020
Min Rear Setback (ft)25252525
Max Structure Height (ft) [See Section 131.0344]30303030
Max Lot Coverage (%) «(7)»10201020
Min Floor Area «(6)»appliesappliesappliesapplies
Refuse and Recyclable Material Storage [See Section 142.0805]appliesappliesappliesapplies
Visibility Area [See Section 113.0273]appliesappliesappliesapplies
Dwelling Unit Protection Regulations [See Chapter 14, Article 3, Division 12]appliesappliesappliesapplies

(1) A single dwelling unit is permitted only as an accessory use to a permitted agricultural use on the same premises.

(2) See Section 131.0340(a).

(3) See Section 131.0340(b).

(4) See Section 131.0342(a).

(5) See Section 131.0342(b).

(6) Each dwelling unit shall have a gross floor area of at least 650 square feet, not including the garage.

(7) Structures that are used to provide shade areas for growing plants, such as green houses and agricultural shade structures, are not included for determining lot coverage.

Building Code Wizard maintains this record from the official source. Always confirm final determinations with the issuing authority.