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Zoning & ADUs

Zoning, ADUs & lot splits in San Luis Obispo

A plain-English guide to what the City of San Luis Obispo and the County allow on residential lots, and how to get it permitted.

This guide is being written. The outline below shows what it will cover. Every rule and number will link to its official source when the page goes live.

ADUs and junior ADUs

  • Size, height and setback rules in SLO city
  • Parking requirements and exemptions
  • Permit steps, timelines and fees
  • Renting an ADU: long-term vs. short-term rules

SB 9 lot splits & duplexes

  • Which lots qualify
  • Owner-occupancy requirements
  • How SLO applies the state rules
  • Worked example on a typical SLO lot

Zoning districts

  • R-1 through R-4 explained
  • Mixed-use and downtown zones
  • Specific plan areas (Orcutt, Avila Ranch, San Luis Ranch, Froom Ranch)
  • How to look up a parcel's zoning

City vs. County

  • Which rules apply to your address
  • Unincorporated areas and community plans
  • Coastal zone permits

Primary sources