R-2-I: Two-Family Residential, Intensified Development District in Long Beach
In the City of Long Beach, the R-2-I district is a two-family residential zone designed for intensified development on individual lots. This district allows a high density of one unit per 1,000 square feet of lot area and is specifically intended for areas located in immediate proximity to public open space [Section 21.31.020.G]. A defining characteristic of the R-2-I district is its unique allowance for structures to be built as close as six inches from the front property line [Table 31-3, Footnote (a)].
Purpose and General Character
The primary intent of the R-2-I district in the Long Beach Municipal Code is to provide for a higher intensity of two-family housing than standard residential zones. By allowing up to two units on a minimum lot size of 4,800 square feet, the City of Long Beach encourages the efficient use of land near recreational amenities [Section 21.31.020.G]. The general character of the R-2-I district is one of transition, where the proximity to parks justifies a more urban building form, including heights of up to three stories [Table 31-2A].
Permitted Land Uses
The City of Long Beach permits a variety of residential and community-oriented uses within the R-2-I district. Primary uses are focused on two-family dwellings, but the code also allows for flexibility in housing types and certain accessory functions [Section 21.31.110].
Residential Uses
- Single-Family Dwellings: Both detached and attached units are permitted [Table 31-1].
- Two-Family Dwellings (Duplexes): These are the primary intended use for the R-2-I district [Table 31-1].
- Modular or Manufactured Housing: Permitted if placed on a permanent foundation [Table 31-1].
- Transitional and Supportive Housing: These uses are permitted by right to ensure equitable access to housing [Table 31-1].
- Group Homes: Small group homes (serving 6 or fewer persons) are permitted in the R-2-I district [Table 31-1].
Accessory and Temporary Uses
- Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs): Permitted as an accessory use to a primary residence [Section 21.51.276].
- Home Occupations: Allowed as an accessory use, provided they meet strict performance standards to protect neighborhood character [Section 21.51.235].
- Safe Parking Sites: Permitted as an accessory use to provide temporary locations for individuals living in vehicles [Table 31-1].
- Temporary Activating Uses: Permitted on vacant lots for community benefits, such as sporadic cultural events [Section 21.53.115].
Development Standards
The R-2-I district in Long Beach features some of the most flexible setback and density requirements for two-family zones. The following table outlines the specific technical standards for development in this district.
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Max Units Per Lot | 2 units [Table 31-2A] |
| Minimum Lot Area | 4,800 sq. ft. [Table 31-2A] |
| Lot Area Per Unit (Density) | 1,000 sq. ft. [Table 31-2A] |
| Minimum Lot Width | 40 ft. [Table 31-2A] |
| Minimum Front Setback | 3 ft. (can be reduced to 6 inches) [Table 31-2A, 31-3] |
| Minimum Side Setback | 3 ft. [Table 31-2A] |
| Minimum Rear Setback | 8 ft. [Table 31-2A] |
| Maximum Building Height | 3 stories / 32 ft. to 35 ft. [Table 31-2A] |
| Usable Open Space | 2% of lot area per unit [Table 31-2A] |
Specific Setback and Height Exceptions
The City of Long Beach provides special considerations for the R-2-I district regarding building placement. While the standard front setback is 3 feet, permitted structures may extend to within 6 inches of the front property line [Table 31-3, Footnote (a)]. Additionally, if the building features a mezzanine or specific roof configuration, the height may extend to 35 feet [Table 31-2A].
Parking Requirements
Off-street parking in the R-2-I district is mandated by the City of Long Beach based on the size of the dwelling units. Generally, all required parking must be provided on-site, though certain exceptions for ADUs or historic structures may apply [Section 21.41.221].
| Unit Type | Required Parking Spaces |
|---|---|
| 0 Bedrooms (Studio) | 1.0 space per unit [Table 41-1A] |
| 1 Bedroom | 1.5 spaces per unit [Table 41-1A] |
| 2+ Bedrooms | 2.0 spaces per unit [Table 41-1A] |
| Guest Parking | 1 space per 4 units [Table 41-1A] |
Sections Cited
- Section 21.15.045 - Accessory Dwelling Unit
- Section 21.31.010 - Purpose
- Section 21.31.020 - Districts established
- Section 21.31.110 - Permitted uses
- Section 21.41.221 - On-site parking required—Residential uses
- Section 21.51.235 - Home occupations
- Section 21.51.276 - Accessory Dwelling Units
- Section 21.53.115 - Temporary activating uses
- Table 31-1 - Uses in Residential Zones
- Table 31-2A - Residential Development Standards
- Table 31-3 - Permitted Projections and Structures in Required Yards
- Table 41-1A - Required Number of Parking Spaces for Residential Uses