Nevada City R2 Multiple-Family Residential Zone Regulations
In Nevada City's R2 zone, the maximum residential density is 8 units per acre. Permitted uses include multi-family dwellings, single-family homes, and transitional housing. Newly created lots must be at least 0.5 acres (21,780 sq. ft.), though exceptions exist for master-planned condominium or townhome projects. Height regulations follow RR zone standards.
The R2 Multiple-Family Residential Zone in Nevada City is designed to stabilize and protect residential neighborhoods where a compatible mixture of single-family and multi-family dwellings occurs. Its primary intent is to promote a suitable environment for family life and community services, aligning with the "mixed residential" General Plan designations [§ 17.28.010].
Principal Permitted Uses
The R2 zone allows for a variety of residential housing types. Primary permitted uses include:
- Multiple-family dwellings: These may be configured as one detached building or an attached group [§ 17.28.020].
- Single-family dwellings: All uses permitted in the R1 (Single-Family Residential) zone are also permitted in the R2 zone [§ 17.28.020, § 17.24.020].
- Transitional and Supportive Housing: These uses are subject to the same restrictions as other residential dwellings of the same type in the zone [§ 17.28.020].
Accessory Uses
The following accessory uses and buildings are permitted when they are customarily appurtenant to a permitted use:
- Residential Care Homes: Small state-licensed facilities accommodating no more than six individuals (e.g., foster homes) [§ 17.28.030].
- Signs: One announcement or nameplate, not exceeding two square feet, attached flat against the building [§ 17.28.030].
- Pets: Miscellaneous household pets may be kept according to the regulations of the R1 zoning district [§ 17.28.030].
Conditional Uses
Conditional uses in the R2 zone are identical to those provided for in the RR (Rural Residential) zoning district [§ 17.28.040]. These include:
- Home occupations.
- Large residential care homes.
- Guest houses.
- Public and quasi-public buildings or uses (educational, religious, cultural, or public service), excluding storage yards, warehouses, or corporation yards.
- Off-street parking areas on building sites contiguous with non-residential zones.
- Temporary tract offices and signs [§ 17.20.040].
Note: While Bed and Breakfast inns were previously listed as conditional uses, they have been found to be impliedly repealed by voter initiative [§ 17.20.040].
Development Standards
Development in the R2 district must comply with specific density and area requirements to maintain the character of the neighborhood.
Density and Lot Requirements
- Maximum Density: 8 units per acre [§ 17.28.070].
- Minimum Lot Size: For newly created lots, the minimum size is 0.5 acres (21,780 square feet) [§ 17.28.070].
- Exceptions: The minimum lot size requirement does not apply to tentative maps for condominiums, townhomes, or single-family parcels if the development is part of a master-planned multiple-family project [§ 17.28.070].
Height and Other Conditions
- Height Regulations: Height limits in the R2 zone are the same as the requirements for the RR Rural Residential zone [§ 17.28.050].
- General Provisions: All development must comply with the general provisions of Chapter 17.80 of the city code [§ 17.28.080].