Setback Requirements for the R-4-N District in Long Beach
In the City of Long Beach, the R-4-N (Medium-density Multiple Residential) district requires a standard front setback of 15 feet and a standard rear setback of 20 feet. Side setbacks for the R-4-N district are generally determined by a percentage of the lot width (10% for interior sides and 15% for street sides), though significantly larger buffer setbacks up to 40 feet are required when an R-4-N property adjoins a lower-density residential zone [Table 31-2A].
Standard Setback Requirements
The development standards for the R-4-N district in the City of Long Beach establish specific distances that buildings must be set back from property lines to ensure adequate light, air, and privacy. These requirements vary based on the specific orientation of the yard [Section 21.31.215].
| Setback Type | R-4-N District Requirement | Supplemental Standard |
|---|---|---|
| Front Yard | 15 feet | Standard minimum [Table 31-2A] |
| Interior Side Yard | 10% of lot width | Minimum 3 feet; Maximum 10 feet [Table 31-2A, note q] |
| Street Side Yard | 15% of lot width | Maximum 15 feet [Table 31-2A, note q] |
| Rear Yard | 20 feet | Standard minimum [Table 31-2A] |
Special Buffer Setbacks
When an R-4-N district project in the City of Long Beach is located on a site that adjoins, abuts, or is adjacent to R-1, R-2, or R-3 districts, the building must adhere to increased buffer setbacks. These setbacks are intended to protect the privacy and environment of lower-density residential areas [Section 21.31.215.D.3].
| Building Story | Required Buffer Setback (Side and Rear) |
|---|---|
| Two-story or less (not to exceed 25' in height) | 20 feet |
| Third story (and 2nd story mezzanine) | 30 feet |
| Fourth story or more | 40 feet |
Projections into Required Yards
The City of Long Beach allows certain architectural features and structures to project into the required R-4-N setbacks, provided they meet specific limitations to maintain safety and neighborhood character [Table 31-3].
- Architectural Protrusions: May project 2 feet 6 inches into the front or side yards and 3 feet into the rear yard.
- Balconies: May project up to 2 feet 6 inches into the front and side yards. In the rear yard, a 15-foot minimum distance to the property line must be maintained.
- Awnings: May project 2 feet 6 inches into any required yard.
- Chimneys: Limited to a 5-foot width, they may project 2 feet 6 inches into any required yard.
Additional Regulations
Corner Cutoffs
A corner cutoff is required in all residential districts in the City of Long Beach at intersections of streets, driveways, or alleys. For the R-4-N district, the corner cutoff must be a minimum of six feet by six feet (6' x 6'). No structures or vegetation that impede visibility are allowed within this area between the heights of 2 feet 6 inches and 8 feet [Section 21.31.215.G].
Garage Setbacks
Setbacks for garages within the R-4-N district are specifically regulated by the type of garage. For instance, on-grade garages must be set back 30 feet from the street property line and must be screened by residential uses from all street frontages [Table 31-7].
Sections Cited
- Section 21.15.660 - Corner cutoff.
- Section 21.31.020 - Districts established.
- Section 21.31.215 - Yard requirements.
- Table 31-2A - Residential Development Standards.
- Table 31-3 - Permitted Projections and Structures in Required Yards.
- Table 31-7 - Garages in R-3 and R-4 Zone Districts.