Overview of the RL: Low Density Residential Zoning District in Concord
The RL: Low Density Residential district in Concord is designed for neighborhoods primarily consisting of detached single-family dwellings, while also allowing for a diversity of compatible housing types such as cottages, cluster, courtyard, and patio homes, and duplexes. This district supports residential development at densities ranging from two and one-half to 10 units per net acre, providing a transition between lower and higher density residential areas.
Permitted Uses and Permit Requirements
The following table outlines the permit requirements for common land uses in the RL district.
| Land Use Classification | Permit Required in RL District |
|---|---|
| Bed and Breakfast Inn | UP |
| Single-Family, Detached | ZC |
| Single-Family, Detached – Small Lot Subdivision | UP |
| Single-Family, Attached | ZC |
| Duplex | AP |
| Multifamily | – |
| Family Day Care Home (14 or fewer children) | ZC |
| Group Housing | – |
| Home-Based Business | ZC, AP |
| Live/Work Unit | UP |
| Residential Care Facility, Small | ZC |
| Residential Care Facility, Large | AP |
| Residential Facility for Seniors, Assisted Living | UP |
| Supportive Housing | – |
Key: ZC = Zoning Clearance; AP = Administrative Permit; UP = Use Permit; – = Use Not Allowed.
Development Standards
Development within the RL district must adhere to specific standards regarding lot dimensions and density. When a conflict exists between the text and a graphic or diagram, the text controls [Section 18.10.050].
| Standard | RL District Requirement |
|---|---|
| Density (minimum/maximum) | 2.5 – 10 du/net acre |
| Lot Area (minimum) | 1,920 sq. ft. |
| Lot Width (minimum) | 24 feet |
| Lot Depth (minimum) | 80 feet |
| Lot Coverage (maximum) | 50 percent |
| Building Height (maximum) | 30 feet |
Key Restrictions and Requirements
- Setbacks: Residential setbacks for the RL district are generally established as follows: Front (5 feet), Interior Side (5 feet), Corner Side (10 feet), and Rear (5 feet) [Table 18.30.040]. Note that additional setback standards may apply in small lot subdivisions pursuant to Chapter 18.155.
- Open Space: Residential projects in the RL district must provide at least 200 square feet of private and/or common open space per dwelling unit, with a minimum of 60 square feet of private open space per unit [Section 18.150.100].
- Small Lot Developments: Residential projects in the RL district that qualify as small lot subdivisions (less than 6,000 square feet) must adhere to the specific standards found in Chapter 18.155, which include requirements for common open space if the average lot size is smaller than 4,356 square feet or if the project has 15 or more units [Section 18.155.050].
- General Plan Consistency: Any approval issued in the RL district must be consistent with the Concord 2030 General Plan [Section 18.10.040].
Sections Cited
- Section 18.10.040: General plan consistency
- Section 18.10.050: Rules
- Section 18.30.040: Table 18.30.040 – RL, RM, and RH districts – Development standards
- Section 18.150.100: Open space and recreational facilities for residential development
- Section 18.155.050: Standards applicable to all small lot single-family detached and attached housing development