Westminster, CA Zoning Ordinance

(Note: Chapter 17.260, Mixed-Use Zones, derived from Ord. 2593, was repealed and replaced by Ord. 2634, 5/13/2026.)

§ 17.200.005 Purpose.

This Chapter establishes the zoning districts applied to property within the City, determines how the zoning districts are applied on the zoning map, and provides general permit requirements for development and land uses.

(Ord. 2456 § 2, 2010)

§ 17.200.010 Zoning Districts Established.

Westminster shall be divided into zoning districts that implement the City's General Plan. The zoning districts described in Table 2-1 are hereby established, and shall be shown on the official adopted zoning map (see Section 17.200.015).

Table 2-1 Zoning District Designations
Zoning Map Symbol	Zoning District Designation	General Plan Land Use Classification Implemented by Zoning District
Residential Zoning Districts
R1	Single-Family Residential	Residential Low Density
R2	Multiple-Family Residential (8–12 units/acre)	Residential Medium Density
R3	Multiple-Family Residential (12.1–14 units/acre)	Residential Medium Density
R4	Multiple-Family Residential (14.1–18 units/acre)	Residential High Density
R5	Multiple-Family Residential (18.1–25 units/acre)	Residential High Density
Commercial Zoning Districts
CR	Restricted Commercial	Low-Intensity Commercial
C1	Local Business	Low-Intensity Commercial
C2	General Business	Commercial General
CM	Commercial-Industrial	Commercial General, Planned Development, and Industrial
Industrial Zoning Districts
M1	Light Industrial	Industrial
M2	Medium Industrial	Industrial
Special Purpose Zoning Districts
P/SP	Public/Semi-Public	Public/Semi-Public
P/OS	Park/Open Space	Park/Open Space
CEM	Cemetery	Park/Open Space
PF	Public Facilities	Park/Open Space; Public/Semi-Public; Electric Utility Right-of-Way
Mixed-Use Zoning Districts
MU	Mixed-Use	Mixed-Use Downtown, Mixed-Use Civic Center, Mixed-Use Corridor, Mixed-Use Little Saigon, and Mixed-Use Northwest District
Overlay Zones
P	Parking	Not applicable
PD	Planned Development	Planned Development Other Land Use Designations
H	Housing	Not Applicable
Specific Plan Zones
SPWM	Westminster Mall Specific Plan	Specific Plan – Westminster Mall
SPMS	Moran Street Specific Plan	Specific Plan – Moran Street
SPBR	Bolsa Row Specific Plan	Specific Plan – Bolsa Row

(Ord. 2456 § 2, 2010; amended during Supplement No. 20, 1/12; Ord. 2593 § 2, 2022; Ord. 2634, 5/13/2026)

§ 17.200.015 Adopted Zoning Map.

The official Westminster Zoning Map (hereafter referred to as the "Zoning Map") has been adopted by the Council and is on file with the Division.

Inclusion by Reference. The Zoning Map, together with all legends, symbols, notations, references, zoning-district boundaries, and other information provided on the map, has been adopted by the Council in compliance with California Government Code Section 65800 et seq., and is hereby incorporated into this Title by reference as though it were fully included here.

Zoning District Boundaries. The boundaries of the zoning districts established by Section 17.200.010, Zoning Districts Established, shall be shown on the Zoning Map.

Relationship to General Plan. The Zoning Map shall implement the General Plan and shall be consistent with the General Plan.

Map Amendments. Amendments to the Zoning Map shall follow the process established in Chapter 17.620, General Plan, Zoning Map, and Zoning Code Amendments.

Zoning Map Interpretation. The Zoning Map shall be interpreted in compliance with Section 17.120.010.D, Zoning Map Boundaries.

Zoning Upon Annexation. All property not prezoned by the Council prior to annexation shall be designated with the zoning designation consistent with the General Plan designation.

(Ord. 2456 § 2, 2010)

§ 17.200.020 Zoning District Regulations.

Purpose. Chapters 17.210, Residential Zoning Districts, through 17.250, Overlay Zones, determine which land uses are permitted in each zoning district, what steps are required to establish each use, and the basic development standards that apply.

Determination of Permitted Land Uses and Permit Requirements. The land uses permitted by this Title in each zoning district are identified in Tables 2-2, 2-4, and 2-6 of this Chapter as being:

Permitted by right subject to compliance with all applicable provisions of this Title, subject to first obtaining a Zoning Clearance as outlined in Chapter 17.515 or Development Review as outlined in Chapter 17.520, and any construction permit or other permit required by the WMC. Permitted uses are shown as "P" in the aforementioned tables;

Permitted subject to the approval of an Administrative Use Permit as outlined in Chapter 17.550, and shown as "AUP" in the aforementioned tables; and

Permitted subject to the approval of a Conditional Use Permit as outlined in Chapter 17.550, and shown as "CUP" in the aforementioned tables.

Pursuant to Section 17.120.015, Procedures for Interpretation, the Director is assigned the responsibility and authority to interpret the requirements of this Title. Land uses that are not listed in the Tables 2-2 to 2-6 or are not shown in a particular zoning district are not permitted, except where otherwise provided by Section 17.110.010, Exemptions from Land Use Permit Requirements, and as outlined in the notes section of Tables 2-2, 2-4, and 2-6.

Indoor Uses Only. All commercial and industrial activities, other than off-street parking, shall be conducted entirely within an enclosed structure(s), except as may otherwise be permitted in compliance with this Title.

Site Divided by Zoning District Boundary. Where a site is divided by one or more zoning district boundaries, each portion of the site located in a separate district shall be developed and used in compliance with the requirements of the applicable district.

Conflicts between Provisions

In the event of any conflict between the zoning district regulations of this Article and the provisions of Article 3, Site Planning and General Development Standards, the provisions of Article 3 shall govern; and

Rules for resolving conflict between the requirements of this Title may be found in Section 17.120.010.F, Conflicting Requirements.

Marijuana Cultivation and Cannabis Activities Prohibited. Pursuant to Section 17.200.022 of this Chapter, the cultivation of marijuana and all commercial cannabis activities are prohibited within the City.

Short-Term Rentals Prohibited. As defined in Chapter 9.74 of the Westminster Municipal Code, the short-term rental of residential dwelling units are prohibited within the City.

(Ord. 2456 § 2, 2010; Ord. 2490 § 2, 2012; Ord. 2527 § 3, 2016; Ord. 2566 § 2, 2020)

§ 17.200.022 Marijuana Cultivation and Cannabis Activity.

The purpose and intent of this Section to prohibit marijuana cultivation and all commercial cannabis activities, in order to promote the health, safety, morals and general welfare of the residents and the businesses within the City.

Applicability

Nothing in this Section is intended, nor shall it be construed, to either burden any defense to a criminal prosecution set forth in the Compassionate Use Act, the Medical Marijuana Program Act, or the Medical Marijuana Regulation and Safety Act, or any other State law, or to criminalize any activities otherwise permitted by the State Legislature through the Compassionate Use Act, the Medical Marijuana Program Act, or the Medical Marijuana Regulation and Safety Act, or any other State law.

All the provisions of this Section shall apply to all property, public and private, within the City.

All the provisions of this Section shall apply indoors and outdoors.

Definitions. The following definitions apply to this Section:

"Commercial cannabis activity"

includes cultivation, possession, manufacture, processing, storing, laboratory testing, labeling, transporting, distribution, or sale of marijuana and marijuana products, including medical and non-medical marijuana, non-medical cannabis products and medical cannabis products within the meaning of California Business and Professions Code Section 19300 et seq.

"Marijuana"

shall have the same definition as that set forth in California Health & Safety Code Section 11018.

"Medical marijuana"

shall mean marijuana used for medical purposes in accordance with California Health and Safety Code Section 11362.5.

"Marijuana cultivation"

shall mean the planting, growing, harvesting drying or processing of marijuana plants or any part thereof for any purpose, including medical marijuana and non-medical recreational marijuana, and shall include both indoor and outdoor cultivation.

"Person"

shall mean any person, firm, corporation, association, club, society, or other organization. The term person shall include any owner, manager, proprietor, employee, volunteer and/or salesperson.

Marijuana Cultivation.

Outdoor Cultivation. Outdoor marijuana cultivation by any person, including primary caregivers, qualified patients, and dispensaries, for any purpose including medical or non-medical (recreational) purposes is prohibited in all zoning districts within the City of Westminster.

Indoor Cultivation. Cultivation of marijuana indoors, as authorized by State law, shall be permitted within private residences by persons 21 years of age or older, provided that the cultivation is conducted in compliance with State law. No person shall cultivate more marijuana plants indoors than is expressly authorized by Health and Safety Code Section 11362.2.

Commercial Cannabis Activity. Commercial cannabis activity by any person, including primary caregivers, qualified patients and dispensaries, is prohibited in all zoning districts within the City of Westminster.

Declaration of Public Nuisance. Any use, structure, or property that is altered, enlarged, erected, established, maintained, moved, or operated contrary to the provisions of this Chapter, is hereby declared to be unlawful and a public nuisance and may be abated by the City through civil and/or administrative proceedings by means of a restraining order, preliminary or permanent injunction, or in any other manner provided by law for the abatement of such nuisances.

Violations.

Violations of this Section shall be a civil or administrative violation within the meaning of the Westminster Municipal Code, and as specified in Chapter 17.650 (Enforcement) of the Westminster Municipal Code.

This Section is not the exclusive means for the abatement of marijuana dispensaries within the City of Westminster. The remedies set forth pursuant to this Section shall be in addition to any other existing remedies for violations of the Zoning Code, including, but not limited to, any action at law or equity.

(Ord. 2527 § 2, 2016; Ord. 2532 §§ 2—4, 2016; Ord. 2533 §§ 2—4, 2016)

§ 17.210.005 Purpose.

This Chapter provides development and land use regulations for the residential zoning districts established by Section 17.200.010. The purpose of the individual residential zoning districts and the manner in which they are applied are as follows.

R1 (Single-Family Residential) District. The R1 zoning district identifies areas characterized by single-family dwellings and provides areas for the development of detached dwelling units at densities no greater than 7 units per acre, except for SB 9 two-unit housing developments pursuant to Section 17.400.122. The standards of this district are intended to protect the existing density and maintain the character of single-family residential neighborhoods. The R1 zoning district is consistent with the Low Density Residential land-use designation of the General Plan.

R2 (Multiple-Family Residential—12 Units/Acre) District. The R2 zoning district is intended for the development of dwelling units within a density range of 8 to 12 units per acre. The R2 zoning district is consistent with the Residential Medium land-use designation of the General Plan.

R3 (Multiple-Family Residential 13 to 14 Units/Acre) District. The R3 zoning district provides opportunity for the development of dwelling units with densities of 13 to 14 units per acre. The R3 zoning district is consistent with the Residential Medium land-use designation of the General Plan.

R4 (Multiple-Family Residential 15 to 18 Units/Acre) District. The R4 zoning district is intended to provide opportunities for the development of multiple-family housing with densities of 15 to 18 units per acre. The R4 zoning district is consistent with the Residential High land-use designation of the General Plan.

R5 (Multiple-Family Residential 19 to 25 Units/Acre) District. The R5 zoning district is intended to provide opportunities for the development of residential projects with densities of 19 to 25 units per acre. The R5 zoning district is consistent with the Residential High land-use designation of the General Plan.

(Ord. 2456 § 2, 2010; Ord. 2580U § 3, 2022)

§ 17.210.010 Residential Zoning District Land Uses and Permit Requirements.

General Requirements. Table 2-2 identifies the land uses permitted by this Title in the residential zoning districts, and the land use permit required to establish each use, in compliance with Section 17.200.020.B, Determination of Permitted Land Uses and Permit Requirements.

Note: Where the last column in the table ("See Specific Use Regulations") includes a section number, the regulations in the referenced section apply to the use; however, provisions in other sections of this Title may also apply.

Table 2-2 Permitted Uses and Permit Requirements For Residential Zoning Districts
Land Use¹	Permit Requirements by District					See Specific Use Regulations
Land Use¹	R1	R2	R3	R4	R5⁴	See Specific Use Regulations
Recreation, Education, and Public Assembly
Child day care facilities	CUP	CUP	CUP	CUP	CUP	Section 17.400.035
Family day care home, large	AUP	AUP	AUP	AUP	AUP	Section 17.400.035
Family day care home, small	P	P	P	P	P	Section 17.400.035
Nonprofit service-provider facility²	–	–	CUP	CUP	CUP
Public recreational and cultural facilities	P	P	P	P	P
Private schools	CUP	CUP	CUP	CUP	CUP
Public schools – Kindergarten to 12^th grade	P	P	P	P	P
Religious places of worship	CUP	CUP	CUP	CUP	CUP
Residential
Accessory dwelling units and junior accessory dwelling units (in conjunction with a single-family or multifamily residence)	P	P	P	P	P	Section 17.400.135
Accessory garage structures exceeding allowed maximum area	AUP	–	–	–	–	Section 17.400.120
Accessory structures and uses³	P	P	P	P	P	Section 17.400.130
Accessory structures and uses exceeding allowed maximum area³	AUP	AUP	AUP	AUP	AUP	Section 17.400.130
Boarding and lodging house	–	–	CUP	CUP	CUP
Conversion of apartments to condominiums	–	CUP	CUP	CUP	CUP	Section 17.400.045
Conversion of hotels and motels to apartments	–	CUP	CUP	CUP	CUP	Section 17.400.080
Multiple-family dwellings	–	P	P	P	P	Section 17.400.125
Fraternities and sororities	–	–	CUP	CUP	CUP
Home schooling, without a fee or charge	P	P	P	P	P
Home-based business:	P	P	P	P	P	Section 17.400.075 Chapter 17.530
Manufactured/modular housing	P	P	–	–	–
Mobile-home park (minimum 10 acres)	CUP	CUP	CUP	CUP	CUP
Mobile homes – outside of approved mobile home parks, on foundation system	P	–	–	–	–
Model home sales complex	P	P	P	P	P
One-family dwellings	P	P	P	P	P	Section 17.400.120
Residential care facilities, 6 or fewer clients	P	P	P	P	P
Residential care facilities, 7 or more clients	CUP	CUP	CUP	CUP	CUP
SB 9 two-unit housing development in the R1 District	P	–	–	–	–	Section 17.400.122
Secondary dwelling units	P		–	–	–	Section 17.400.135
Senior housing	CUP	CUP	CUP	CUP	CUP	Section 17.400.085
Small lot subdivisions	–	P	P	P	P	Section 17.400.150
Supportive housing	–	P	P	P	P
Dwelling unit (excluding residential group living and/or boarding house)	P	P	P	P	P
Residential group living, 6 persons or less	P	P	P	P	P
Residential group living, 7 persons or more	CUP	CUP	CUP	CUP	CUP
Transitional housing	–	P	P	P	P
Dwelling unit (excluding residential group living and/or boarding house)	P	P	P	P	P
Residential group living, 6 persons or less	P	P	P	P	P
Residential group living, 7 persons or more	CUP	CUP	CUP	CUP	CUP
Two-family dwellings	–	P	P	P	P	Section 17.400.125
Nonresidential and Other
Agriculture	P	P	P	P	P	Section 17.400.020
Public safety facilities	CUP	CUP	CUP	CUP	CUP
Public utility facilities	CUP	CUP	CUP	CUP	CUP
Roadway improvements, pipelines, and utility lines	P	P	P	P	P
Wireless communication facilities – screened and/or co-located	–	P	P	P	P	Section 17.400.175
Wireless communication facilities – unscreened and/or not co-located	–	CUP	CUP	CUP	CUP	Section 17.400.175

Notes:
P = Permitted Use; CUP = Conditional Use Permit Required; AUP = Administrative Use Permit Required; – = Prohibited Use or Not Applicable
¹	See Article 7 for definitions of the land uses listed.
²	Limited to providing social services, education, training, medical, and dental assistance. Overnight stay prohibited.
³	Accessory structures and uses as provided in Article 7, Definitions, including buildings and structures commonly required for the operation of an ordinary farm or ranch of 10 or more acres, provided each such farm or ranch accessory building is built not closer than 100 feet to any public street or highway or exterior property boundary.
⁴	Residential uses within the Planned Development Overlay General Plan land use designation may exceed the densities when the development meets the average daily traffic (ADT) goals for the site as specified in the General Plan.

(Ord. 2456 § 2, 2010; Ord. 2478 § 2, 2011; Ord. 2500 § 2, 2012; Ord. 2507 § 2, 2013; Ord. 2549 § 2, 2018; Ord. 2563 § 2, 2019; Ord. 2572 § 2, 2021; Ord. 2580U § 4, 2022)

§ 17.210.015 Residential Zoning District Development Standards.

General Requirements. Subdivisions, new land uses and structures and alterations to existing land uses and structures in the R1, R2, R3, R4, and R5 zones shall conform to the requirements outlined in Table 2-3. In addition, the applicable development standards outlined in Article 3 shall apply to all residential zoning districts. Please refer to Section 17.400.120 for single-family residential design standards. For applicable multiple-family residential design standards, please refer to Section 17.400.125 of the WMC and the Section 5.0 of the City of Westminster Design Guidelines Manual. The Design Guidelines are not included in any article of this Title, but are available for review on the City's website or at the offices of the Division.

Table 2-3 Residential Zoning District Development Standards
Development Feature	Requirements by Zoning District
Development Feature	R1	R2	R3	R4	R5
Minimum lot size	6,500 SF for corner lots 6,000 SF for all other lots				10,000 SF
Maximum Density	1 unit per lot	1 unit per 3,600 SF	1 unit per 3,000 SF	1 unit per 2,400 SF	1 unit per 1,800 SF
Maximum building height:	2 stories not to exceed 35 feet For height limit exceptions, see Section 17.300.025				see below
When a building is within 100 feet of an R1 zoning district	n/a				2 stories, or 25 feet
When a building is 100–150 feet of an R1 zoning district	n/a				3 stories, or 35 feet
In all other locations	n/a				Height shall not exceed the width of the widest abutting street
Flag pole	35 feet
Accessory buildings and structures	The maximum height of the building or structure shall not exceed 15 feet to the roof peak, except where structures contain a flat roof or shed roof, then the plate line shall not exceed 10 feet in height. For non-roofed structures, the maximum height shall be 10 feet to the highest portion of the structure, including, but not limited to, play equipment. See Section 17.400.130
Setbacks:	For setback exceptions, see Section 17.300.020
Front yard	Minimum 50 feet from the centerline of the street or highway upon which the building site fronts, or 20 feet from the ultimate right-of-way line, whichever is less^1, ¹¹
Side yard	Minimum 5⁹ feet; except, a corner lot shall have a street side yard of not less than 10 feet	Single-story structures up to 15 feet in height/minimum 5 feet Two or more story structures over 15 feet in height/minimum 7 feet A corner lot shall have a street side yard of not less than 10 feet
Rear yard	Minimum 20 feet or 20% of average lot depth, whichever is less⁸				10 feet
Patio (enclosed or open) and sunshade when attached to dwelling unit^2, ¹⁰	Minimum 10 feet to rear property line³ Minimum 5 feet to side property line Minimum 10 feet to street side property line if it is a corner lot
Distance between detached accessory structure and main building	Minimum 6 feet See Section 17.400.130
Balcony, porch (covered or uncovered), terrace, landing, and outside stairway ⁴	Maximum 3-foot projection into required side yard Maximum 5-foot projection into required front or rear yard See Table 3-1 in Article 3
Eave, cornice, or canopy	Maximum 2-foot 6-inch projection into required side yard Maximum 5-foot projection into required front or rear yard⁵ See Table 3-1 in Article 3
Masonry chimney, and fireplace	Maximum 20-inch projection into required front, side, or rear yard⁶
Swimming pools, spas and hot tubs	Minimum 5 feet from walled structures Minimum 3 feet from open patio cover supports Minimum 3 feet from side and rear property lines
Distance between dwellings on the same lot:
One-story buildings	n/a	Minimum 10 feet
Two-story buildings	n/a	Minimum 15 feet
Maximum lot coverage	40%⁷	40%	40%	50%	60%
Minimum on-site open space per unit	n/a	500 SF	350 SF	250 SF
Off-street parking	As required by Chapter 17.320
Fences, walls used as fences, latticework screens, hedges, or thick growths of shrubs or trees, and open-mesh wire fences	As required by Section 17.300.030
Minimum floor area (excluding garages)	1 BR (1,125 SF) 2 BR (1,225 SF) 3 BR (1,400 SF) 4 BR (1,525 SF) 5 BR (1,625 SF, plus 100 SF for each additional bedroom)	1,050 SF	900 SF	750 SF	750 SF
Storage and loading of recyclable materials	n/a	As required by Section 17.300.045
Landscaping	As required by Chapter 17.310

Notes:
SF = square feet; n/a = not applicable
1	Applicable to R1 Districts only: With the exception of lots fronting on cul-de-sac and/or knuckle streets, the building setback may be further reduced to 10 feet when sufficient maneuvering and parking are provided in front of the garage entrance to park two vehicles without encroaching into the public right-of-way.
2	In the case of cul-de-sac and knuckle lots, open latticework patio covers, unenclosed and attached to the rear of the main building, are permitted within the required setback area as long as no supports of said patio structures are within 3 feet of the rear property line.
3	Patios (enclosed or open) and sunshades shall not exceed the height of the first floor of the dwelling unit meaning not to exceed the plate line.
4	In no event under this provision shall balconies, porches, terraces or outside stairways or steps be closer than 2 feet to the side property line or 3 feet to the rear property line of a building site.
5	In no event under this provision shall eaves, cornices, or canopies be closer than 2 feet to any side, front, or rear property line of the building site.
6	In no event under this Section shall chimneys, fireplaces (attached), media niches, or bay windows (cantilevered) be closer than 3 feet to any side property line of the building site.
7	Any required covered or enclosed parking spaces (up to a maximum of 600 square feet), including children's play houses, shall be exempt from lot coverage criteria.
8	A single-story portion of a dwelling unit, with a maximum height of 16 feet for a pitched roof and 11 feet for a flat roof can maintain a 10-foot rear yard setback provided that there is no less than 1,000 square feet of contiguous open space, with a minimum dimension of 10 feet, located in the back yard area. When a rear lot line abuts a public street, alley, park, flood-control channel or a railroad right-of-way, with a minimum dimension of 20 feet, the minimum rear yard can be 10 feet. If the abutting alley is 15 feet wide the minimum rear yard cannot be less than 12.5 feet.
9	If lot has average width of less than 50 feet, the minimum required width of each side yard shall be no more than 10 percent of such average width, but in no event less than 3 feet; provided, that this shall not apply to a lot created after December 9, 1976.
10	See Section 17.400.130 for additional applicable standards.
11	For streets 80 feet or more in width setback is 20 feet or 20 percent of street width whichever is greater but no more than 30 feet
	For Westminster Blvd – 60 feet from centerline of street
	State Highways – 70 feet from centerline of street, except the following:
	If width is more than 100 feet – 20 percent of street width but not more than 30 feet
	On Beach Blvd, existing lots less than 50 feet in depth – 0 setback

(Ord. 2456 § 2, 2010; Ord. 2477 § 2, 2011; Ord. 2478 § 2, 2011)

§ 17.220.005 Purpose.

This Chapter provides development and land use regulations for the commercial zoning districts established by Section 17.200.010. The purpose of the individual commercial zoning districts and the manner in which they are applied are as follows.

CR (Restricted Commercial) District. The CR zoning district identifies areas appropriate for primarily low-intensity office uses. Retail uses may be considered but require review by the Commission and final action by the Council.

C1 (Local Business) District. The C1 zoning district provides areas for the development of a broad range of retail, service, and entertainment uses designed to meet the shopping and service needs of the local residential and business communities.

C2 (General Business) District. The C2 zoning district provides areas for the development of free-way-oriented and regional-serving retail and office complexes, and complementary regional commercial centers.

CM (Commercial-Industrial) District. The CM zoning district provides areas for the development of planned, unified shopping centers. This district also provides areas for light-industrial uses. Uses for both commercial and industrial districts are outlined in Tables 2-4 and 2-6.

(Ord. 2456 § 2, 2010)

§ 17.220.010 Commercial Zoning District Land Uses and Permit Requirements.

General Requirements. Table 2-4 identifies the land uses permitted by this Title in the commercial zoning districts, and the land use permit required to establish each use, in compliance with Section 17.200.020.B, Zoning District Regulations.

Table 2-4 Permitted Uses and Permit Requirements For Commercial Zoning Districts
Land Use¹	Permit Requirements by District				See Specific Use Regulations
Land Use¹	CR	C1	C2	CM²	See Specific Use Regulations
Industry, Manufacturing and Processing
Printing – commercial and wholesale	–	–	P	–
Research and development (R&D)	–	–	–	CUP
Temporary storage containers	–	–	P	–	Section 17.400.160
Recreation, Education and Public Assembly
Broadcast facilities for radio and/or televisions		P	P	P
Clubs, lodges, and fraternal organizations	–	P	P	P
Commercial entertainment and recreation:
Amusement center/park	–	CUP	CUP	CUP
Entertainment – in conjunction with eating and drinking establishments	–	CUP	CUP	CUP
Indoor amusement/entertainment facilities:
Bowling alley	–	–	P	P
Ice skating	–	–	AUP	AUP
Pool and/or billiard rooms	–	CUP	CUP	CUP
Other defined indoor amusement/entertainment facilities	–	CUP	CUP	CUP
Limited entertainment – in conjunction with eating and drinking establishments	–	AUP	AUP	AUP	Section 17.400.055
Outdoor commercial recreation	–	CUP	CUP	CUP
Theaters and auditoriums	–	CUP	CUP	CUP
Dance halls, reception halls, banquet facilities or related uses	–	CUP	CUP	CUP
Health/fitness facilities (with or without massage establishment)	–	CUP	CUP	CUP
Health/fitness facilities (without massage establishment) less than 5,000 square feet		AUP	AUP	AUP
Publicly owned recreational and cultural facilities	P	P	P	P
Private recreational and cultural facilities	CUP	CUP	CUP	CUP
Private schools	CUP	CUP	CUP	CUP
Religious places of worship	CUP	CUP	CUP	CUP
Studios – art, dance, music, photography, etc.	–	P	P	P
Tutoring centers	–	P	P	P
Vocational and trade schools	–	AUP	AUP	CUP
Residential³
Emergency shelters	–	–	CUP	CUP
Mobilehome park – minimum 10 acres	CUP	CUP	CUP	CUP
Residential care facilities – 7 or more clients	CUP	CUP	CUP	CUP
Residential with commercial (mixed-use)	PD/CP	PD/CP	PD/CP	PD/CP
Senior housing	CUP	CUP	CUP	CUP	Section 17.400.085
Retail
Adult uses	–	–	CUP	CUP	Section 17.400.015
Alcohol sales:
For off-site consumption	–	CUP	CUP	CUP
For on-site consumption	–	CUP	CUP	CUP
For on-site consumption associated with a bona fide eating place not containing a bar or lounge		AUP	AUP	AUP
Animal sales and services:
Pet shop/store	–	P	P	P
Antique store	–	P	P	P
Apparel: clothing, shoes, and accessories	–	P	P	P
Art/photography stores and galleries	–	P	P	P
Bakery (retail) or delicatessen	–	P	P	P
Boat sales – new and used	–	–	–	AUP
Book and stationery stores	–	P	P	P
Department stores	–	–	P	P
Drive-in and drive-through facilities	–	P	P	P	Section 17.400.050
Drug stores and pharmacies	–	P	P	P
Eating and drinking establishments:
Bars, night clubs	–	CUP	CUP	–
Café, coffee house, tea house	–	CUP⁶	CUP⁶	CUP⁶	Section 17.400.030
Restaurant, take out	–	P	P	P
Equipment sales and rentals – excluding vehicle	–	P	P	P
Florist/flower shop	–	P	P	P
Food and beverage sales:
Convenience stores	–	P	P	P
Grocery stores	–	P	P	P	Section 17.400.065
Liquor stores	–	CUP	CUP	CUP
Specialty stores	–	P	P	P
Food-service cart – incidental to host use	–	–	CUP	CUP	Section 17.400.070
Furniture (finished or unfinished), furnishings, and appliance stores	–	P	P	P
General retail stores	–	P	P	P
Home improvement stores – sales and service	–	P	P	P
Meat market	–	P	P	P
Mobilehome sales	–	–	CUP	CUP
Outdoor storage	–	CUP	CUP	CUP
Plant nurseries (retail) and garden-supply stores	–	P	P	P
Second-hand stores (retail outlet only-no acceptance of donated products)	–	–	P	P
Second-hand stores (that facilitate donation or purchase of products)	–	–	CUP	CUP
Shopping center	–	P	P	P
Sporting goods and equipment store	–	P	P	P
Stationery and office supplies	–	P	P	P
Swap meet⁴	–	CUP	CUP	CUP
Vehicle sales, including automobiles and motorcycles:
New vehicles, retail⁵	–	–	P	P
Used vehicles	–	–	CUP	CUP
Vehicle parts sales – no installation and/or servicing	–	P	P	P
Vehicle parts sales – with installation and/or servicing	–	–	CUP	CUP
New recreational vehicle sales⁵	–	–	P	P
Wholesale vehicle dealer independently developed from a new vehicle dealership and involving the storage of vehicles on-site	–	–	CUP	CUP
Warehouse retail stores	–	–	P	P
Service
Acupressure	–	CUP	CUP	CUP
Acupuncture	P	P	P	P
Adult uses	–	–	CUP	CUP
Animal services:
Animal boarding and kennels	–	–	–	CUP	Section 17.400.025
Pet day care and grooming	–	AUP	AUP	AUP	Section 17.400.025
Veterinary clinics and animal hospitals	–	CUP	CUP	CUP	Section 17.400.025
Astrology and fortunetelling establishments	–	P	P	P
Automated teller machines (ATMs)	P	P	P	P
Banks and financial institutions (with/without drive-thru)	P	P	P	P
Bicycle repair, sales, and rental	–	P	P	P
Business and consumer-support services	–	P	P	P
Check-cashing business	–	CUP	CUP	CUP
Day care facilities:
Adult day care centers	CUP	CUP	–	–
Child day care centers	CUP	CUP	–	–
Drive-thru facilities and services	–	P	P	P
Hotels and motels⁷	–	CUP	CUP	CUP
Laundromat – coin operated	–	P	P	P
Massage establishments as defined in Title 5	–	P	P	P	Section 17.400.095
Medical services:
Clinics	AUP	AUP	AUP	AUP
Labs	–	P	P	P
Hospitals	CUP	CUP	CUP	CUP
Offices (medical or dental)	P	P	P	P
Offices:
Administrative/business	P	P	P	P
Government	P	P	P	P
Production	P	P	P	P
Professional	P	P	P	P
Offices for wholesale businesses	–	P	P	P	Section 17.400.100
Pawnshops	–	AUP	P	–
Personal services:
Barber	–	P	P	P
Dry cleaning – pick-up/drop-off only	–	P	P	P
Dry cleaning – with cleaning facilities	–	–	P	P
Hair/nail salon	–	P	P	P
Laundromat	–	P	P	P
Mail-box services	–	P	P	P
Medical spa	–	AUP	AUP	–
Shoe repair and service	–	P	P	P
Spa/sauna	–	AUP	AUP	–
Tailoring	–	P	P	P
Public safety facilities	CUP	CUP	CUP	CUP
Public utility facilities	CUP	CUP	CUP	CUP
Recycling facilities – incidental use:					Section 17.400.115
Reverse vending machines	–	P	P	P	Section 17.400.115
Small collection facility	–	P	P	P	Section 17.400.115
Large collection facility	–	–	CUP	CUP	Section 17.400.115
Self storage	–	CUP	CUP	CUP	Section 17.400.140
Service stations	–	CUP	CUP	CUP	Section 17.400.145
Tattoo parlor or dermatography studio	–	CUP	CUP	–	Section 17.400.155
Ticket and travel agency	P	P	P	P
Vehicle services:
Accessories installation	–	AUP	AUP	AUP
Automobile broker – office only and no vehicle display	P	P	P	P
Car wash, full service	–	CUP	CUP	CUP
Car wash, self service	–	CUP	CUP	CUP
Driving school	–	AUP	AUP	–
Maintenance/repair – excluding auto body repair	–	–	CUP	CUP	Section 17.400.170
Recreational vehicle storage facility	–	–	–	CUP
Rental	–	AUP	AUP	–
Towing, no storage	–	–	–	–
Transportation and Communications
Bus depot	–	–	CUP	CUP
Wireless communication facilities – screened and/or co-located	P	P	P	P	Section 17.400.175
Wireless communications facilities – unscreened	CUP	CUP	CUP	CUP	Section 17.400.175

Notes:
P = Permitted Use; AUP = Administrative Use Permit Required; CUP = Conditional Use Permit Required; – = Prohibited Use; PD/CP = Planned Development and Comprehensive Plan
¹	See Article 7 for definitions of the land uses listed.
²	Uses permitted in the CM zoning district shall be as follows:
	a.	Uses permitted in the C2 zoning district, subject to the restrictions provided in the above table and providing the property is developed as a planned, unified shopping center.
	b.	Uses permitted in the M1 zoning district, provided that if any portion of the property is developed for commercial uses not permitted by the M1 zoning district, compatibility of commercial and industrial uses shall be determined by development review as provided elsewhere in this Title.
	c.	Tables 2-4 and 2-6 provide a listing of permitted, conditionally permitted, and prohibited uses for the CM zone district.
³	Refer to Table 2-3 for development standards applicable to residential uses.
⁴	Limited to indoor sales only.
⁵	The sale of used vehicles, wholesale of new vehicles and auto repair/servicing are permitted as incidental uses to the primary retail sale of new vehicles.
⁶	Cafés, coffee houses and tea houses are permitted without a CUP if found in compliance with the provisions of Section 17.400.030.
⁷	All Conditional Use Permits for hotels and motels shall require City Council review and approval, following a public hearing review and recommendation by the Planning Commission.

(Ord. 2456 § 2, 2010; Ord. 2478 § 2, 2011; Ord. 2490 § 2, 2012; Ord. 2526 § 2, 2015)

§ 17.220.015 Commercial Zoning District Development Standards.

General Requirements. Subdivisions, new land uses and structures, and alterations to existing land uses and structures in the CR, C1, C2, and CM zones shall be designed, constructed, and/or established in compliance with the requirements outlined in Table 2-5. In addition, the applicable development standards (e.g., landscaping, parking and loading) outlined in Article 3 shall apply to all commercial zoning districts. For applicable commercial development design guidelines, please refer to Section 17.400.040.

Late Night Business Restrictions. Commercial businesses, located within 150 feet of a parcel zoned for residential use with late night operations and late night hours, as defined in Article 7 of this Title shall require the issuance of a Conditional Use Permit.

Table 2-5 Commercial District Development Standards
Development Feature	Requirements by Zoning District
Development Feature	CR	C1	C2	CM¹
Maximum building height:
Buildings/structures	2 stories not to exceed 35 feet		Width of the street upon which the building faces; where a building has more than one street frontage, the width of the widest street shall apply
Flag pole²	60 feet
Minimum lot size	6,000 square feet as required by Title 16 (Subdivisions)
Minimum front yard required	50 feet to the centerline of the street upon that the building site fronts⁴
Minimum side yard required	20 feet, if the adjoining property is zoned for residential purposes ³, 10 feet, if the property adjoins a public right-of-way, 0 feet if adjoining property is zoned for commercial or industrial uses
Minimum rear yard required	10 feet; or 5 feet if the rear yard adjoins a public alley, public park, or public pedestrian way; or 25 feet if the property adjoins property zoned for residential purposes²
Off-street parking and loading	As required by Chapter 17.320
Landscaping	As required by Chapter 17.310
Signs	As required by Chapter 17.330
Storage and loading of recyclable materials	As required by Section 17.300.045
Fences, walls used as fences, latticework screens, hedges, or thick growths of shrubs or trees, and open-mesh wire fences	As required by Section 17.300.030
Retail storefront visibility requirements	Retail storefronts shall provide a minimum 60 percent open exposure to the street or parking lot through the use of windows and doors

Notes:
¹	Providing the property is developed as a planned, unified shopping center, the development standards in this table shall apply; however, if the property is developed for uses permitted in the M1 zoning district, then the development standards in Table 2-7 shall apply.
²	See Footnote 7 in Table 3-8, Permitted Signs by Type and Zoning District, for applicable standards and requirements.
³	Where the property adjoins property zoned for residential uses, the side yard shall not be used for storage purposes, including refuse and recyclable materials or other activities, except parking and traffic circulation.
⁴	For streets 80 feet or more in width setback is 20 feet or 20 percent of street width whichever is greater but no more than 30 feet
	For Westminster Blvd – 60 feet from centerline of street
	State Highways – 70 feet from centerline of street, except the following:
	If width is more than 100 feet – 20 percent of street width but not more than 30 feet
	On Beach Blvd, existing lots less than 50 feet in depth – 0 setback

(Ord. 2456 § 2, 2010; Ord. 2478 § 2, 2011)

§ 17.230.005 Purpose.

This Chapter provides development and land use regulations for the industrial zoning districts established by Section 17.200.010. The purposes of the individual industrial zoning districts and the manner in which they are applied are as follows.

M1 (Light Industrial) District. The M1 zoning district provides areas for low-intensity and low-impact industrial, manufacturing, and related uses. Typical uses include research and development facilities and laboratories, small-scale warehouses, and light manufacturing. The M1 zoning district is consistent with the Industrial land use designation of the General Plan.

M2 (Medium Industrial) District. The M2 zoning district provides areas suitable for a broad range of manufacturing businesses, wholesaling businesses, and limited warehousing and distribution facilities. The M2 zoning district is consistent with the Industrial land use designation of the General Plan.

(Ord. 2456 § 2, 2010)

§ 17.230.010 Industrial Zoning District Land Uses and Permit Requirements.

General Requirements. Table 2-6 identifies the uses of land permitted by this Title in each industrial zoning district, and the land use permit required to establish each use, in compliance with Section 17.200.020B, Zoning District Regulations.

Note: Where the last column in the tables ("See Specific Use Regulations") includes a section number, the regulations in the referenced section apply to the use; however, provisions in other sections of this Title may also apply.

Table 2-6 Permitted Uses and Permit Requirements For Industrial Zoning Districts
Land Use¹	Permit Requirements by District			See Specific Use Regulations
Land Use¹	CM²	M1	M2	See Specific Use Regulations
Industry, Manufacturing and Processing³
Breweries, wineries, distilleries, and cideries	P	P	P
Catering (for off-site consumption)	P	P	P
Cleaning and dyeing plants	–	P	P
Commercial kitchens and bakeries	P	P	P
Food and beverage manufacturing	–	CUP⁸	CUP⁸	Section 17.400.060
Hazardous waste facilities, off-site	–	–	CUP	Section 17.400.105
Laundry facilities, commercial – carpet and upholstery	P	P	P
Lumber yards	–	P	P
Machine shop	–	P	P
Manufacturing, assembly, welding, and/or fabrication:⁴
Ceramics	P	P	P
Concrete/cement	–	–	P
Electronics	P	P	P
Garments	P	P	P
Glass studio	–	P	P
Light sheet metal	P	P	P
Musical instruments	P	P	P
Signs	P	P	P
Windows and doors	P	P	P
Woodworking	P	P	P
Media production – soundstages	–	P	P
Packing plant for whole agricultural products	–	–	P
Printing – commercial and wholesale	P	P	P
Research and development (R&D)	AUP	P	P
Self storage	–	–	–
Warehousing and distribution facilities	P	P	P
Wholesale sales	P	P	P
Recreation, Education and Public Assembly
Broadcast facilities for radio and television	P	P	P
Clubs, lodges, and fraternal organizations	P	–	–
Commercial entertainment and recreation:
Amusement center	CUP	–	–
Entertainment – in conjunction with eating and drinking establishments	CUP	–	–	Section 17.400.055
Indoor amusement/entertainment facilities:
Bowling alley	P	–	–
Ice skating	AUP	–	–
Pool and/or billiard rooms	CUP	–	–	Chapter 9.44
Limited entertainment – in conjunction with eating and drinking establishments	AUP	–	–	Section 17.400.055
Other defined indoor amusement/entertainment facilities:
Outdoor commercial recreation	CUP	–	–
Theaters	CUP	–	–
Health/fitness facilities	CUP	–	–
Health/fitness facilities less than 5,000 square feet	AUP
Public recreational and cultural facilities	P	P	P
Private schools	CUP	–	–
Religious places of worship	CUP	CUP	CUP
Studios – art, dance, music, photography, etc.	CUP	CUP	CUP
Tutoring centers	P	–	–
Vocational and trade schools	P	–	–
Residential
Emergency shelter	CUP	–	–
Mobilehome park – minimum 10 acres	CUP	CUP	CUP
Senior housing	CUP	CUP	CUP	Section 17.400.085
Retail
Accessory retail use³	P	P	P
Alcohol sales:
For off-site consumption	CUP	CUP	CUP
For on-site consumption	CUP	CUP	CUP
For on-site consumption associated with a bona fide public eating place not containing a bar or lounge	AUP	AUP	AUP
For an on-site tasting room in conjunction with a brewery, winery, distillery, or cidery	AUP	AUP	AUP
Antique store	P	–	–
Art/photography stores and galleries	P	–	–
Bakery – retail	P	–	–
Boat sales – new and used	AUP	P	P
Building material stores – raw materials	–	P	P
Drive-in and drive-through facilities	P	–	–	Section 17.400.050
Drug stores and pharmacies	P	–	–
Eating and drinking establishments:
Café, coffee house, tea house	CUP	–	–	Section 17.400.030
Restaurant	P	–	–
Restaurant – 10 seats or less	P	P	P
Equipment sales and rentals – excluding vehicle	P	P	P
Food and beverage sales:
Convenience stores	P	CUP	CUP
Grocery stores	P	–	–	Section 17.400.065
Liquor stores	CUP	–	–
Specialty stores	P	–	–
Food-service cart – incidental to host use	CUP	–	–	Section 17.400.070
Furniture sales – finished or unfinished	P	–	–
General retail stores	P	–	–
Home improvement stores – sales and service	P	P	P
Mobilehome sales	CUP	–	–
Outdoor storage	CUP	CUP	CUP
Plant nurseries (retail) and garden supply stores	P	–	–
Recycling facilities – incidental use:				Section 17.400.115
Large collection facility	CUP	CUP	CUP
Reverse vending machines	P	P	P
Small collection facility	P	P	P
Second-hand stores	CUP	–	–
Shopping center	P	–	–
Swap meet⁶	CUP	–	–
Vehicle sales, including automobiles and motorcycles:
New recreational vehicle sales	P	AUP	AUP
New vehicles, retail⁵	P	AUP	AUP
Used vehicles	CUP	CUP	CUP
Vehicle parts sales – no installation and/or servicing	P	–	–
Vehicle parts sales – with installation and/or servicing	CUP	P	P
Wholesale vehicle dealer	CUP	CUP	CUP
Warehouse retail stores	P	P	P
Service
Acupressure	CUP	–	–
Acupuncture	P	–	–
Adult uses	CUP	–	–	Section 17.400.015
Animal sales and services:
Animal boarding and kennels	CUP	CUP	CUP	Section 17.400.025
Pet day care and grooming	AUP	AUP	AUP	Section 17.400.025
Veterinary clinics and animal hospitals	CUP	CUP	CUP	Section 17.400.025
Astrology and fortunetelling establishments	P	–	–
Automated teller machines (ATMs)	P	P	P
Banks and financial institutions	P	–	–
Business and consumer support services	P	P	P
Check-cashing business	CUP	–	–
Construction contractors	–	P	P
Hotels and motels⁷	CUP	–	–
Massage establishments	CUP	–	–	Section 17.400.095
Medical services:
Ambulance services (more than 500 feet from residentially zoned parcel)	AUP	AUP	AUP
Ambulance services (within 500 feet of residentially zoned parcel)	CUP	CUP	CUP
Clinics	AUP	AUP	AUP
Labs	P	P	P
Hospitals	CUP	CUP	CUP
Offices (medical or dental)	P	–	–
Offices:
Administrative/business	P	–	–
Government	P	–	–
Production	P	–	–
Professional	P	–	–
Offices for wholesale businesses	P	–	–	Section 17.400.100
Personal services:
Barber	P	–	–
Dry cleaning – pick-up/drop-off only	P	–	–
Dry cleaning – with cleaning facilities	P	–	–
Hair/nail salon	P	–	–
Laundromat	P	–	–
Mail-box services	P	–	–
Shoe repair and service	P	–	–
Tailoring	P	–	–
Public safety facilities	CUP	CUP	CUP
Public utility facilities	CUP	CUP	CUP
Reflexology	P	–	–
Service stations	CUP	CUP	CUP	Section 17.400.145
Vehicle services:
Accessories installation	AUP	P	P
Auto body repair	–	P	P	Section 17.400.170
Automobile broker – office only and no vehicle display	P	–	–
Car wash, full service	CUP	–	–
Car wash, self service	CUP	–	–
Maintenance/repair – excluding auto body repair	CUP	P	P	Section 17.400.170
Recreational vehicle storage facility	–	CUP	–	Section 17.320.030J
Towing, no storage	–	–	CUP
Transportation and Communications
Bus depot	CUP	–	–
Parcel delivery terminal	CUP	P	P
Taxi dispatch yards	–	CUP	CUP
Wireless communication facilities – screened and/or co-located	P	P	P	Section 17.400.175
Wireless communications facilities – unscreened	–	–	–	Section 17.400.175

Notes:
P = Permitted Use; AUP = Administrative Use Permit Required; CUP = Conditional Use Permit Required; – = Prohibited Use
¹	See Article 7 for definitions of the land uses listed.
²	Uses permitted in the CM zoning district shall be as follows:
	a.	Uses permitted in the C2 zoning district, subject to the restrictions provided in the above table and providing the property is developed as a planned, unified shopping center.
	b.	Uses permitted in the M1 zoning district, provided that if any portion of the property is developed for commercial uses not permitted by the M1 zoning district, compatibility of commercial and industrial uses shall be determined by development review as provided elsewhere in this Title.
	c.	Tables 2-4 and 2-6 provide a listing of permitted, conditionally permitted, and prohibited uses for the CM zone district.
³	Retail commercial uses (occupying no more than 20 percent of the building), customarily incidental or directly related to the service or product manufactured or stored on the same property.
⁴	The use of a blast furnace, incinerator, or similar industrial process is prohibited.
⁵	The sale of used vehicles, wholesale and repair/servicing are permitted as incidental uses to the primary retail sale of new vehicles.
⁶	Limited to indoor sales only.
⁷	All Conditional Use Permits for hotels and motels shall require City Council review and approval, following a public hearing review and recommendation by the Planning Commission.
⁸	CUP required only if the use is within 500 feet of any parcel zoned for residential uses, or parcels containing residential uses within a mixed-use development measured from the external boundaries of the site. Otherwise, the use is permitted by right but subject to the regulations in Section 17.400.060.

(Ord. 2456 § 2, 2010; Ord. 2478 § 2, 2011; Ord. 2490 § 2, 2012; Ord. 2623, 8/27/2025)

§ 17.230.015 Industrial Zoning District Development Standards.

General Requirements. Subdivisions, new land uses and structures, and alterations to existing land uses and structures in the CM, M1, and M2 Zones shall be designed, constructed, and/or established in compliance with the requirements outlined in Table 2-7. In addition, the applicable development standards (e.g., landscaping, parking and loading, etc.) outlined in Article 3 shall apply to all industrial zoning districts.

Table 2-7 Industrial District Development Standards
Development Feature	Requirements by Zoning District
Development Feature	CM¹	M1	M2
Maximum building height:
Building/structures	2 stories or 35 feet
Flag pole²	60 feet
Minimum lot size	10,000 SF		7,200 SF
Minimum front yard	50 feet to the centerline of the street or highway that fronts the building site.⁴
Minimum side yard	0 feet; or 20 feet, if the adjoining property is zoned for residential purposes.³ Where the side yard adjoins a public right-of-way, the width of the side yard shall be not less than 10 feet.
Minimum rear yard	10 feet; or 5 feet, if the rear yard adjoins a public alley, public park, or public pedestrian way; or 25 feet if the property adjoins property zoned for residential purposes.³
Off-street parking and loading	As required by Chapter 17.320
Landscaping	As required by Chapter 17.310
Signs	As required by Chapter 17.330
Storage and loading of recyclable materials	As required by Section 17.300.045
Fences, walls used as fences, latticework screens, hedges, or thick growths of shrubs or trees, and open-mesh wire fences	As required by Section 17.300.030

Notes:
SF = square feet
¹	Providing the property is developed as a planned, unified shopping center, the development standards in Table 2-5 shall apply; however, if the property is developed for uses permitted in the M1 zoning district, then the development standards in Table 2-7 shall apply.
²	See Footnote 7 in Table 3-8, Permitted Signs by Type and Zoning District, for applicable standards and requirements.
³	Where the property adjoins property zoned for residential uses, the side yard shall not be used for storage purposes including refuse and recyclable materials or other activities, except parking and traffic circulation.
⁴	For streets 80 feet or more in width setback is 20 feet or 20 percent of street width whichever is greater but no more than 30 feet.
	State Highways – 70 feet from centerline of street, except the following:
	If width is more than 100 feet – 20 percent of street width but not more than 30 feet
	On Beach Blvd, existing lots less than 50 feet in depth – 0 setback

Industrial Zoning District Performance Standards. All land uses proposed in the M1 and M2 zoning districts shall be operated and maintained so as not to be injurious to public health, safety, or welfare, and shall comply with the following standards.

Air emissions. No approved land use shall generate or cause any visible dust, gases, or smoke to be emitted into the atmosphere, except as necessary for the heating or cooling of structures, and the operation of motor vehicles on the site. All uses and activities shall comply with the air quality regulations in Chapter 8.24, Air Pollution, of the WMC.

Glare and heat. No direct or reflected glare or heat, whether from floodlights or from high temperature processes (including combustion or welding or otherwise), shall be visible or felt at or beyond the property line.

Ground vibration. No approved land use shall generate ground vibration perceptible without instruments at any point along or outside of the property line of the use, except for motor vehicle operations.

Noise. All uses and activities shall comply with the noise regulations in Chapter 8.28, Noise Control, of the WMC.

Odor. No approved land use shall generate or emit any obnoxious odor or fumes perceptible at or beyond the property line. All uses and activities shall comply with the odor regulations in Chapter 8.24, Air Pollution, of the WMC.

Late night business restrictions. Industrial businesses located within 150 feet of a parcel zoned for residential use with late night operations and late night hours, as defined in Article 7 of this Title, shall require the issuance of a Conditional Use Permit.

(Ord. 2456 § 2, 2010; Ord. 2478 § 2, 2011)

§ 17.240.005 Purpose.

This Chapter provides development and land use regulations for the special purpose zoning districts established by Section 17.200.010. The purposes of the individual special purpose zoning districts and the manner in which they are applied are as follows.

Cemetery (CEM) District. The CEM zoning district is applied to cemeteries and is intended to protect existing cemeteries and provide for expansion within their existing boundaries. This district is established to regulate where the body or remains of a human being may be buried or interred within the City subject to the development review process outlined in Chapter 17.520. Cemetery uses shall not be permitted outside of the CEM zoning district. This district is consistent with the Park/Open Space land use designation of the General Plan.

Public/Semi-Public (P/SP) District. The P/SP zoning district is established to provide a wide range of public and semi-public land uses.

Park/Open Space (P/OS) District. The P/OS zoning district is applied to open space resources. This district is intended to regulate, protect, and preserve publicly accessible land that is well suited for active recreation, amusement, relaxation, and/or scenic viewing. The P/OS zoning district is consistent with the Open Space land use designation of the General Plan.

Public Facilities (PF) District. The PF zoning district is established to provide for a range of civic land uses such as public parks, public schools, utilities, and public administrative buildings.

Specific Plan (SP) District. The SP zoning district is established to allow for a specific set of development standards and uses that are customized to allow for development and design standards that will implement a unique vision, land use, and design characteristics for a particular area of the City and are set forth in the Specific Plan adopted for each specific plan area.

(Ord. 2456 § 2, 2010; Ord. 2593 § 3, 2022)

§ 17.240.010 Cemetery (CEM) Zoning District Requirements.

Uses Permitted by Right and Uses Requiring Special Permits

Uses permitted by right.

Properties within the CEM zoning district shall only be used for the operation of a cemetery and for cemetery purposes, including columbariums, crematories, mausoleums, mortuaries, churches, flower shops, administration buildings, dwellings for persons employed on the premises, storage and vault fabrication facilities, tool sheds, maintenance and garage buildings, and other buildings and uses incidental to and located and carried on within the boundaries of the cemetery.

Farming, including all types of agriculture and horticulture outlined in Section 17.400.020, Agricultural Uses.

Uses requiring a Conditional Use Permit. The following uses are permitted subject to the issuance of a Conditional Use Permit pursuant to the provisions outlined in Chapter 17.550.

Recreational vehicle storage lot subject to standards outlined in Section 17.320.030.J.

Mobilehome park (minimum 10 acres).

Limitations on Placement of Burials/Interments. No burial or interment of a human body shall be allowed closer than 60 feet to the centerline of a primary highway or 40 feet to the centerline of a secondary highway, as designated on the Orange County Master Plan of Arterial Highways; or closer than 30 feet to the centerline of any other street. However, such burial or interment shall be permitted closer to the Bolsa Avenue centerline, as specified in Instrument No. 31318 recorded in Book 2996, page 506 of Official Records of Orange County.

Development Standards for CEM Zoning District. Land uses permitted within the CEM zoning district shall comply with the following provisions, in addition to all applicable provisions of Article 3.

Maximum building height. No building shall exceed 3 stories or 50 feet in height, whichever is greater.

Front yard setback. No building other than wall crypts shall be closer than 110 feet to the centerline of the right-of-way of a major highway, or closer than 100 feet to the centerline of a primary highway, or closer than 90 feet to the centerline of a secondary highway, as designated on the Master Plan of Arterial Highways of Orange County; or, in any other case, closer than 80 feet to the centerline of the right-of-way of any other street.

Side yard setbacks. No building shall be closer than 5 feet to any side property line. Wall crypts, one side of which forms a portion of the wall enclosing the cemetery, may be permitted along a side property line.

Rear yard setbacks. No building shall be closer than 85 feet to the centerline of a major highway, or closer than 75 feet to the centerline of a primary highway, or closer than 65 feet to the centerline of a secondary highway, as designated on the Master Plan of Arterial Highways of Orange County; or, in any other case, closer than 55 feet to the centerline of any other street.

Fencing requirements. All property used for cemetery purposes shall be enclosed by a fence, wall, or structure used as a wall, with a minimum height of 8 feet. Any such fence installed within 50 feet of an intersection shall be wire mesh or other similar material so as not to obstruct traffic visibility.

(Ord. 2456 § 2, 2010)

§ 17.240.015 Public/Semi-Public (P/SP) Zoning District Requirements.

Uses Permitted by Right, Prohibited Uses, and Uses Requiring Special Permits

Uses permitted by right.

Police stations; civic center; fire stations; County, State, Federal and special district offices; governmental maintenance and/or storage facilities; public schools, including related administration maintenance and storage uses; emergency shelters; parks, transit agency offices and facilities; and publicly and privately owned utilities.

Within the Westminster Civic Center Area, private vendors providing goods and services to the civic center area are conditionally permitted when such private vendors are authorized by agreement with the City. "Civic center" is defined as that publicly owned land bounded by Westminster Boulevard on the north, Monroe Street on the east, 13th Street on the south, and Jackson Street (as if extended to 13th Street) on the west, including the publicly owned property south of 13th Street. The operation and maintenance standards for such private vendors shall be established from time to time by resolution of the Council. The operation and maintenance standards outlined in Section 17.400.070, Food Service Carts, shall not be applicable except as expressly provided for in such a resolution.

Prohibited uses. Construction of any advertising sign or structure and any residential, commercial, industrial or freight storage structure, including above ground parking structures.

Uses requiring an Administrative or Conditional Use Permit.

Places of public assembly and worship, retail, and wholesale plant nurseries are subject to the issuance of a Conditional Use Permit pursuant to the provisions outlined in Chapter 17.550.

Wireless Communications Facilities may be permitted with an Administrative Use Permit or a Conditional Use Permit pursuant to the provisions outlined in Section 17.400.175, Wireless Facilities.

Mobilehome park (minimum 10 acres) subject to the issuance of a Conditional Use Permit pursuant to the provisions outlined in Chapter 17.550.

Development Standards. Land uses permitted within the P/SP zoning district shall comply with all applicable provisions of Article 3.

(Ord. 2456 § 2, 2010)

§ 17.240.020 Park/Open Space (P/OS) Zoning District Requirements.

Land uses permitted within the P/OS zoning district shall comply with the following provisions, in addition to all applicable provisions of Article 3.

Permitted Uses and Uses Requiring Special Permits

Uses permitted by right.

Public parks and related public recreational structures;

Buildings, structures, wells, and reservoirs related to the distribution, treatment, and/or storage of water.

Uses requiring a Conditional Use Permit. The following uses are permitted subject to the issuance of a Conditional Use Permit pursuant to the provisions outlined in Chapter 17.550.

Private recreation facilities;

Private open space set aside and/or deeded for such purpose;

Recreational vehicle storage lot subject to standards outlined in Section 17.320.030.J;

Mobilehome park (minimum 10 acres) subject to the issuance of a Conditional Use Permit pursuant to the provisions outlined in Chapter 17.550.

Development Standards. Land uses permitted within the P/OS zoning district shall comply with all applicable provisions of Article 3.

(Ord. 2456 § 2, 2010)

§ 17.240.025 Public Facilities (PF) District Requirements.

Uses permitted in the PF district shall be as follows:

In a PF district, no building or land shall be used and no building shall be erected or structurally altered, except for the following uses:

Publicly or privately owned, regulated and operated utilities, or enterprises, excluding streets and highways, but including:

Public parks;

Public administrative buildings;

Civic center;

Utilities, privately or publicly owned and operated;

Public schools;

Accessory buildings and uses incidental to any of the permitted uses in this zone;

Any similar public enterprise not here enumerated when so determined by City site plan review;

On utility-owned land, secondary uses which are found to be compatible with surrounding properties may be permitted by Conditional Use Permit. All secondary uses must have City approval, including agricultural activities.

Site plans of all buildings, structures and improvements in a PF district shall be approved by the City before building permits are issued.

If, for any reason, the actual or anticipated PF type usage becomes obsolete, the property may revert to the basic zoning designation of the area, as determined by the planning commission and the City Council.

Within the Westminster civic center area, private vendors of goods and services, whose purpose is to serve visitors to the civic center only, are permitted when such private vendors are authorized by agreement with the City. "Civic Center" is defined as the publicly owned land bounded by Westminster Boulevard on the north, Monroe Street on the east, 13th Street on the south and Jackson Street (as if extended to 13th Street) on the west, including publicly owned property south of 13th Street. The operation and maintenance standards for such private vendors shall be established from time to time by resolution of the City Council. The operation and maintenance standards within this Title shall not be applicable except expressly as provided for in such resolution.

(Ord. 2456 § 2, 2010; Ord. 2478 § 2, 2011; Ord. 2490 § 2, 2012)

§ 17.240.030 Specific Plan (SP) District Requirements.

Each individual specific plan shall serve as the zoning for the specific plan area. Refer to the individual specific plan document for a detailed description of each specific plan area and the development standards applicable to each specific plan.

(Ord. 2593 § 4, 2022; Ord. 2634, 5/13/2026)

§ 17.250.005 Purpose.

The overlay zones established by this Chapter provide guidance for development and new land uses in addition to the standards and regulations of the primary zoning districts, where important site, neighborhood, or compatibility issues require particular attention in project planning.

(Ord. 2456 § 2, 2010)

§ 17.250.010 Applicability of Overlay Zones.

Designation of Property. The applicability of any overlay zone to a specific site is shown by the overlay Zoning Map symbol established by Section 17.200.010, Zoning Districts Established, being appended as a suffix to the symbol for the primary zoning district shown on the Zoning Map.

Applicability of Overlay District Requirements. The provisions of this Chapter apply to proposed land uses and development in addition to all other applicable requirements of this Title. In the event of any perceived conflict between the provisions of this Chapter and any other provision of this Title, this Chapter shall govern.

(Ord. 2456 § 2, 2010; Ord. 2634, 5/13/2026)

§ 17.250.015 (Reserved)

Repealed by Ord. 2634, 5/13/2026.

(Ord. 2456 § 2, 2010)

§ 17.250.018 Emergency Shelter (ES) Overlay.

Purpose. This Section provides land use regulations for the Emergency Shelter (ES) Overlay zoning district as established by Section 17.200.010, Zoning Districts Established. This district applies to manufacturing/industrial sites, which due to their size and location, are appropriate for emergency shelter facility use.

Allowed Uses. A parcel within the ES Overlay district may be used as follows:

Emergency Shelter Facility as defined in Article 7 (Definitions) and in compliance with Section 17.400.053 (Emergency Shelters) and all other applicable provisions of the WMC; or

Uses Permitted in the M2 (Medium Industrial) Zoning District, as established in Chapter 17.230 (Industrial Zoning Districts) and all other applicable provisions of the WMC.

Requirements for Establishment of the ES Overlay Zoning District. Each parcel within the ES Overlay Zoning District, shall comply with each of the following:

Underlying Zoning Classification. The parcel shall have an M2 (Medium Industrial) Zoning District classification. For the purpose of determining if a parcel is within the M2 (Medium Industrial) zoning district and therefore meets the requirements for establishment of the Emergency Shelter (ES) Overlay zoning, any parcel located within the M2 (Medium Industrial) zoning district, where a portion of said parcel is also within the B-1 (Buffer) zoning district, shall be considered in whole as a M2 (Medium Industrial) zoned parcel.

Proximity to Parcels Zoned for Residential Use. No parcel shall abut a parcel zoned for residential use.

(Ord. 2507 § 3, 2013)

§ 17.250.020 (Reserved)

Repealed by Ord. 2634, 5/13/2026.

(Ord. 2456 § 2, 2010)

§ 17.250.025 Parking (P) Overlay.

Purpose. This Section provides development and land use regulations for the P Overlay zoning district, as established by Section 17.200.010, Zoning Districts Established.

Requirements. Land uses permitted within the P Overlay zoning district shall comply with the following provisions, in addition to all applicable provisions of Article 3.

When any residentially zoned lot is designated with the P Overlay zoning district classification, in lieu of the uses permitted by its underlying zone classification, the lot may be used exclusively for an off-street parking facility if such facility serves a principal use that is within 100 feet of the outer boundaries of the lot. The following regulations shall apply to the use of a lot designated with the P Overlay classification:

All off-street parking facilities shall be constructed and maintained in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 17.320. All required yard areas, as imposed by the zoning regulations applicable to such lot by reason of its underlying zone classification, shall be adhered to. All such required yard areas shall be landscaped and permanently maintained as such, including, but not limited to, the installation and maintenance of a permanent irrigation system.

No lot shall be designated with the P Overlay unless vehicular and/or pedestrian access thereto is limited or restricted by conveyance of such access rights to the City, or otherwise, to ensure a safe traffic flow and to ensure that the use of such lot for off-street parking will not unreasonably increase vehicular or pedestrian traffic on abutting streets serving residential areas.

(Ord. 2456 § 2, 2010)

§ 17.250.030 Planned Development (PD) Overlay.

Purpose. This Section provides development and land use regulations for the PD Overlay zoning district as established by Section 17.200.010, Zoning Districts Established. This district applies to areas of existing large-scale, multiple-family residential and commercial complexes developed as a planned district, and sites suitable for similar large-scale development. The PD zoning district may also be applied to sites within commercial districts suitable for combined commercial, residential, and/or live-work uses within a physically integrated and contiguous area. The PD zoning district is consistent with the Planned Development Land Use designation of the General Plan and may be consistent with various residential and commercial land use designations of the General Plan.

Requirements. Land uses permitted within the PD Overlay zoning district shall comply with the following provisions in addition to all applicable provisions of Article 3.

Minimum site area for rezoning. The PD Overlay zoning district may only be applied to sites of one-half acre or larger.

Permit requirements. All development proposed within a PD Overlay zoning district shall require approval of a comprehensive plan in accordance with Chapter 17.560. Land use permit requirements for changes in land use after the initial comprehensive plan approval may be established by the Council through the rezoning of the site to apply the PD Overlay zoning district and/or through the approval of the comprehensive plan.

Permitted land uses and development standards. Except as otherwise provided by this Section, permitted land uses, and site planning and development standards for the PD Overlay zoning district shall be determined by the Council through the rezoning of the site to apply the PD Overlay zoning district, and through the approval of a Comprehensive Plan in compliance with the permit requirements noted above. In establishing permitted land uses and development standards, the Council shall consider the standards of the zoning districts most similar in nature and function to the uses proposed within the PD Overlay zoning district.

Height. The maximum height of any building or structure in the PD Overlay zoning district shall not exceed the width of the street, or the widest street, upon which the building faces.

Undergrounding of utilities. All utilities, including telephone, cable television, and electric systems, required within the limits of all PD Overlay zoning districts shall be located underground.

Standards. The permitted uses and development standards for PD Overlay districts are developed as part of the project approval process.

(Ord. 2456 § 2, 2010)

§ 17.250.035 Housing (H) Overlay.

Purpose. This Section provides development and land use regulations for the Housing (H) Overlay zoning district, as established by Section 17.200.010, Zoning Districts Established. Lots designated with the Housing Overlay designation are identified in the City of Westminster's 2021-2029 Housing Element Sites Inventory as potential lots to accommodate a portion of the City's unmet Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) or have been determined to be significant sites which have the ability to further meet the housing needs of Westminster and its residents.

Requirements. Land uses permitted within the H Overlay zoning district shall comply with the following provisions, in addition to all applicable provisions of the Westminster Municipal Code. Where there is a conflict, the provisions of this Section shall apply.

The following regulations shall apply to the use of a lot designated with the Housing Overlay designation:

All new residential development filing applications after September 10, 2025, shall provide a minimum residential density of 30 dwelling units per net acre.

All new development shall include a residential component which shall occupy at least 50% of the total gross floor area of a mixed-use development.

For developments in which 20% or more of the units are affordable to lower income households (income and affordability levels set forth in Health and Safety Code Sections 50079.5, 50093, and 50105 shall apply), owner-occupied and rental multifamily uses shall be permitted.

An applicant for a project pursuant to this Section may apply for a density bonus in accordance with Government Code Section 65915.

(Ord. 2593 § 5, 2022; Ord. 2624U, 8/13/2025; Ord. 2625U, 9/10/2025; Ord. 2626, 9/24/2025; Ord. 2634, 5/13/2026)

§ 17.260.005 Purpose.

This Chapter provides development and land use regulations for the Mixed-Use (MU) zoning district established by Section 17.200.010. The MU zone is intended to accommodate a range of compatible residential and nonresidential uses, either individually or in combination, in areas generally located along major corridors and activity centers of the City. The MU zone is designed to support housing opportunities, long-term reinvestment, and economic activity while providing flexibility in site design and development configuration.

Development within the MU zone may be integrated vertically (for example, commercial or office uses on the ground floor with residential or office uses above) or horizontally (for example, residential uses located adjacent to commercial or office uses on the same site). Single-use projects, including developments that are entirely residential or entirely nonresidential, are also permitted, except for properties lying within the Housing Overlay zone.

The MU zone implements the mixed-use land use designations of the General Plan. Maximum residential density, building intensity, and development standards applicable to the MU zone are established in this Chapter and may vary based on site characteristics, parcel size, and applicable development standards.

(Ord. 2634, 5/13/2026)

§ 17.260.010 Mixed-Use Zoning District Land Uses and Permit Requirements.

Table 2-8 identifies the land uses permitted by this Title in the MU zone, and the land use permit required to establish each use, in compliance with Section 17.200.020B, Determination of Permitted Land Uses and Permit Requirements.

Where the last column in the table ("Specific Use Regulations") includes a section number, the regulations in the referenced section apply to the use; however, provisions in other sections of this Title may also apply.

All uses listed shall be conducted within a completely enclosed building unless specifically provided otherwise in this Title. The letters in the columns beneath the "Permit Type" mean the following:

"P" - The use is permitted as a principal use within the zone.

"AUP" - The use is conditionally permitted as a principal or accessory use if an Administrative Use Permit is approved by the Community Development Director.

"CUP" - The use is conditionally permitted as a principal or accessory use if a Conditional Use Permit is approved by the Planning Commission.

"X" - The use is prohibited in the district.

Table 2-8 Permitted Uses and Permit Requirements
Land Use	Permit Type	Specific Use Regulations
*Industrial*
Research and development (R&D)	CUP
Self-storage facility	X
Warehousing and distribution facilities	X
*Recreation, Education, and Public Assembly*
Broadcast facilities for radio and/or television	P
Clubs, lodges, and fraternal organizations	P
Commercial entertainment and recreation:
Amusement center/park	CUP
Entertainment in conjunction with eating and drinking establishments	AUP	§ 17.400.055
Indoor amusement or entertainment facilities	CUP
Bowling alley	CUP
Ice skating	CUP
Pool and/or billiard rooms	CUP
Limited entertainment – in conjunction with eating and drinking establishments	P
Outdoor commercial recreation	CUP
Theaters and auditoriums	CUP
Dance halls, reception halls, nightclubs, banquet facilities, or related uses	CUP
Banquet facilities in conjunction with eating and drinking establishments	AUP
Family day care home, 14 children or fewer	P
Family day care home, 15 children or more	CUP
Health and fitness facilities without massage under 5,000 sq. ft.	P
Health and fitness facilities over 5,000 sq. ft.	AUP
Nonprofit service-provider facility	CUP	See Footnote 1
Publicly owned recreational and cultural facilities	P
Private recreational and cultural facilities	CUP
Private schools	CUP
Religious places of worship	CUP
Studios (art, dance, music, photography, etc.)	P	§ 17.400.153
Tutoring centers	P
Vocational and trade schools	AUP
*Residential*
Accessory dwelling units and junior accessory dwelling units	P	§ 17.400.135
Boarding and lodging house	CUP
Conversion of apartments to condominiums	CUP	§ 17.400.045
Conversion of hotels and motels to apartments	CUP	§ 17.400.080
Family day care homes	P	Cal. Health & Safety Code 1597.30 et seq.
Home schooling, without a fee or charge	P
Home-based business	P	§ 17.400.075 Chapter 17.530
Live/work units	P	§ 17.260.020G
Manufactured or modular housing	P
Mixed-use development	P	§ 17.250.035
Mobile-home park (minimum 10 acres)	CUP
Incidental model home sales complex	P
Multiple-family dwellings	P	§ 17.400.125
One-family dwelling, new (replacement)	CUP	§ 17.610.010 § 17.400.120
Residential care facilities, 6 or fewer clients	P
Residential care facilities, 7 or more clients	CUP
Senior housing	CUP	§ 17.400.085
Supportive housing	P
Dwelling unit (excluding residential group living and/or boarding house)	P
Residential group living, 6 or fewer persons	P
Residential group living, 7 or more persons	CUP
Transitional housing	P
Dwelling unit (excluding residential group living and/or boarding house)	P
Residential group living, 6 or fewer persons	P
Residential group living, 7 or more persons	CUP
Two-family dwellings	CUP	§ 17.400.125
*Retail*
Alcohol sales, off-site consumption	CUP
Alcohol sales, on-site consumption	CUP
Alcohol sales, on-site with a bona fide eating place not containing a bar or lounge	AUP
Animal sales, pet shop	P
Antique store	P
Apparel, shoes, and accessories	P
Art or photography store and gallery	P
Bakery or delicatessen	P
Book and stationery store	P
Department store	P
Drive-through facilities located within one-quarter mile of a freeway on/off-ramp	CUP	§ 17.400.050
Drive-through facilities located greater than one-quarter mile of a freeway on/off-ramp	X
Drug store or pharmacy	P
Eating and drinking establishments:
Bars and night clubs	CUP
Cafe, coffee house, or tea house complying with § 17.400.030B	P	§ 17.400.030
Cafe, coffee house, or tea house not complying with § 17.400.030B	CUP	§ 17.400.030
Restaurant, take-out	P
Restaurant, sit-down	P
Florist or flower shop	P
Food and beverage sales:
Convenience store (with no alcohol sales)	P
Grocery store	P	§ 17.400.065
Liquor store	CUP
Specialty store	P
Furniture (finished or unfinished), furnishings, and appliance stores	P
General retail store	P
Home improvement store – sales and service	P
Meat market	P
Plant nurseries (retail) and garden-supply stores	P
Second-hand stores (retail outlet only–no acceptance of donated products)	P
Shared commercial space	P
Shopping center	P
Sporting goods and equipment store	P
Stationery and office supplies	P
Vehicle sales, including automobiles and motorcycles:	P
New vehicles, retail	P	See Footnote 2
Used vehicles	CUP
Vehicle parts sales – no installation and/or servicing	CUP
Vehicle parts sales – with installation and/or servicing	CUP
New recreational vehicle sales	CUP	See Footnote 2
Wholesale vehicle dealer independently developed from a new vehicle dealership and involving the storage of vehicles on-site	CUP
Warehouse retail stores	P
*Services*
Acupressure	CUP
Acupuncture	P
Animal services (see Animal Sales and Services):
Pet day care	AUP	Section 17.400.025
Animal grooming	P	Section 17.400.025
Veterinary clinics and animal hospitals	CUP	Section 17.400.025
Astrology and fortunetelling establishments	P
Automated teller machines (ATMs)	P
Banks and financial institutions, with drive-thru	CUP
Banks and financial institutions, without drive-thru	P
Bicycle repair, sales, and rental	P
Business and consumer-support services	P
Check-cashing business	CUP
Civic center uses and facilities	P
Day care facility, adult	CUP
Day care facility, child	CUP
Hotels and motels	CUP
Laundromat – coin operated	P
Massage establishments as defined in Title 5	P	Section 17.400.095
Medical services:
Clinics	AUP
Labs	AUP
Hospitals	CUP
Offices (medical or dental)	P
Offices:
Administrative/business	P
Government	P
Production	P
Professional	P
Offices for wholesale businesses	P	Section 17.400.100
Pawnshops	AUP
Personal services:
Barber	P
Dry cleaning	P
Hair/nail salon	P
Laundromat	P
Mail-box services	P
Medical spa	AUP
Shoe repair and service	P
Spa/sauna	AUP
Tailoring	P
Public safety facilities	CUP
Public utility facilities	CUP
Recycling facilities
Reverse vending machines	P
Small collection facility	CUP
Large collection facility	CUP
Service stations	CUP
Tattoo parlor or dermatography studio	CUP
Ticket and travel agency	P
Vehicle services:
Automobile broker – office only and no vehicle display	P
*Transportation and Communications*
Bus depot	CUP
Parking facility, public or commercial	P
Wireless communication facilities – screened or co-located	P	§ 17.400.175
Wireless communication facilities – unscreened	CUP	§ 17.400.175

P = Permitted Use

AUP = Administrative Use Permit Required

CUP = Conditional Use Permit Required

X = Prohibited Use

Notes:
1.	Limited to providing social services, education, training, medical, and dental assistance. Overnight stay prohibited.
2.	The sale of used vehicles, wholesale of new vehicles and auto repair/servicing are permitted as incidental uses to the primary retail sale of new vehicles.

(Ord. 2634, 5/13/2026)

§ 17.260.015 Mixed-Use Zoning District Development Standards.

General Requirements. Subdivisions and new land uses and structures in the MU zone shall conform to the requirements outlined in Table 2-9, except for single-family residential development, which shall conform to R2 Zoning District Development Standards. In addition, the applicable development standards (e.g., landscaping, parking and loading) outlined in Article 3 of this Title shall apply to all MU zones, unless modified in this Section.

Table 2-9 Mixed-Use Zoning District Development Standards
Development Standard (See § 17.260.015B for additional provisions.)*	MU Zone
Minimum lot size	No minimum
Minimum residential density	20 du/acre except for properties in the HO zone which are 30 du/acre
Maximum residential density	Site size: Under 2 acres: 50 du/ac 2-3 acres: 70 du/ac 3+ acres: 90 du/ac Additional residential density may be permitted pursuant to § 17.260.015(C).
Maximum building height:*
Mixed-use development (residential and nonresidential component)	6 stories not to exceed 95 feet
All other types of development	6 stories not to exceed 75 feet
Maximum nonresidential floor area ratio (FAR)	1.0
Setbacks:*
Front, ground floor*	Minimum: 5 feet Maximum: 15 feet*
Front, upper floors	See § 17.260.015B
Side, interior lot	None required
Side, corner lot	Minimum: 5 feet/Maximum: 15 feet
Rear	Minimum: 10 feet
Distance b/w buildings on the same lot	Minimum: 10 feet
From Garden Grove Boulevard	Minimum additional 20 ft. beyond setback
Additional residential standards:
Accessory buildings and structures (other than ADUs)	Maximum height: 15 feet to the roof peak, and 10 feet to the highest portion of flat buildings or structures See Section 17.400.130
Patio (enclosed or open) and sunshade when attached to dwelling unit	Minimum: 10 feet to rear property line Minimum: 5 feet to side property line Minimum 10 feet to street side property line if it is a corner lot
Distance between detached accessory structure and main building	Minimum: 6 feet See Section 17.400.130
Distance between main buildings on the same lot	Minimum: 15 feet
Minimum vertical clearance:	9 feet above pedestrian pathways; 13.5 feet above vehicular travel ways
Open space:
Multiple-family residential (no nonresidential component)	Private and common open space shall be provided in accordance with Section 17.260.015E.
Nonresidential development (no residential component)	A minimum of 20 percent of the site shall be provided as open space, in accordance with Section 17.260.015E.
Mixed-use development (residential and nonresidential components)	In accordance with Section 17.260.015E, based on project configuration.
Landscaping	As required by Chapter 17.310; a maximum of 20 percent of the landscape requirement may be met through plants on rooftops, porches or in boxes attached to buildings
Signs	As required by Chapter 17.330
Storage and loading of recyclable materials	As required by Section 17.300.045
Fences, walls used as fences, latticework screens, hedges, or thick growths of shrubs or trees, and open-mesh wire fences	As required by Section 17.300.030

Additional Provisions and Interpretive Standards.

Architectural Projections. Architectural features, including but not limited to awnings, entrance porticos, porches, patio walls, stoops, terraces, unenclosed stairs, balconies, eaves, cornices, canopies, entrance overhangs, trellises, signs, chimneys, fireplaces, and other minor architectural design elements, may exceed the maximum building height by up to 10 feet and may encroach up to six feet into a required street setback, provided that such features do not cross property lines or encroach into the public right-of-way.

Sidewalk Width and Public Realm Requirements. Where necessary to achieve the minimum sidewalk width required under Section 17.260.020C, Public Realm Standards, a greater front setback than that identified in Table 2-9 shall be required.

First-Story Setback Encroachments. Up to 20% of the first-story building frontage may exceed the maximum front setback identified in Table 2-9.

Maximum Front Setback Applicability. The maximum front setback shall apply only to buildings or structures that front onto a public street or right-of-way and is intended to maintain a consistent build-to line along the street. The maximum front setback shall not apply to buildings or structures located behind a street-fronting building on the same property.

Nonresidential Space Development Incentive.

Purpose. This subsection establishes a Nonresidential Space Development Incentive intended to encourage the inclusion and long-term viability of nonresidential uses within mixed-use developments by allowing additional residential density when qualifying nonresidential area is provided.

Eligibility. A mixed-use development within the MU zone shall be eligible for up to an additional 10 dwelling units per acre above the applicable base maximum residential density, as established in Table 2-9, provided the project incorporates a minimum amount of qualifying nonresidential area in accordance with Subsection C.3.

Minimum Nonresidential Area Required. To qualify for the Nonresidential Space Development Incentive, a project shall include on-site nonresidential area meeting or exceeding the following minimums, based on total site size:

Sites under two acres: minimum 2,500 square feet of nonresidential area.

Sites between two and three acres: minimum 5,000 square feet of nonresidential area.

Sites three acres or greater: minimum 7,500 square feet of nonresidential area.

Qualifying Nonresidential Uses.

Qualifying nonresidential area shall consist of active commercial, office, retail, restaurant, service, recreational, artisan, or other employment-generating uses permitted within the MU zone and may include indoor or outdoor areas designed and operated for independent commercial activity accessible to the public.

Qualifying nonresidential area may include shared, flexible, or rotating commercial spaces, including but not limited to pop-up retail, shared commercial kitchens, food preparation facilities, artisan marketplaces, food truck courts, or similar outdoor or indoor commercial gathering spaces, provided the space is permanently designed and improved to accommodate ongoing independent commercial activity, and is accessible to the public or intended to serve the public.

The following shall not qualify as nonresidential area for purposes of this subsection:

Residential amenities or common areas primarily serving residents;

ii.

Leasing or management offices serving the residential portion of the project;

iii.

Storage areas, mechanical rooms, parking structures, or loading areas; or

iv.

Spaces not designed or intended for independent nonresidential occupancy or commercial activity.

Design and Location Requirements. The qualifying nonresidential area shall be:

Integrated into the overall project design;

Oriented toward a public street or publicly accessible area, unless an alternative configuration is approved through a Development Review application.

Timing of Construction. The qualifying nonresidential area shall be constructed concurrently with the residential development unless an alternative phasing plan is approved as part of the Development Review application.

Mixed-Use Parking Requirements. The following parking standards shall apply to development in the MU zone, except for residential projects subject to State statutes which conflict with and preempt the parking requirements set forth in this section. All other provisions of Chapter 17.320 shall apply.

Number of Spaces Required by Use.

Table 2-10 Mixed-Use Zoning District Minimum Parking Standards
Use	Number of Parking Spaces Required
Multiple-family residential	1 or fewer bedrooms: 1.0 spaces per unit 2 bedrooms: 1.5 spaces per unit 3+ bedrooms: 2.0 spaces per unit
Live/work	3.0 spaces per unit
Restaurants and cafes:
Freestanding, not part of a retail shopping center (13 or more seats)	1 space per 200 square feet
Offering patron seating (13 or more seats)	1 space per 300 square feet
Take-out, offering 12 or fewer seats	1 space per 400 square feet
Outdoor dining	Less than 25% of gross floor area: no additional parking is required
Commercial uses integrated into residential mixed-use developments
Retail, service, office, or personal service uses	1 space per 500 square feet
Restaurant or cafe uses (9 or more seats)	1 space per 400 square feet
Restaurant or cafe uses (8 or less seats)	1 space per 500 square feet
Shared commercial space	1 space per 500 square feet
All other land uses	See Section 17.320.020

Tandem parking (i.e., one vehicle parked behind another vehicle) is allowed for residential off-street parking so long as tandem spaces are designated for the same unit. Tandem parking is not allowed for nonresidential uses and cannot be shared between residential and nonresidential uses.

Nonresidential parking provided as part of a mixed-use development may be shared between uses (i.e., between nonresidential and residential uses and between nonresidential uses) pursuant to a shared parking study, parking agreement, and/or Parking Management Plan as approved by the City of Westminster. All parties to a shared parking arrangement shall enter into a covenant with the City which shall be recorded in the Office of the County Clerk/Recorder. This covenant shall bind this parking arrangement until such time that it can be demonstrated, to the satisfaction of the Director, that other off-street parking has been provided in compliance with the Westminster Municipal Code requirements.

Parking spaces serving residential uses shall be conveniently located near the dwelling units they serve, and in no case shall they be more than 300 feet from an entrance to the residential building.

If enclosed parking, including parking garages and structures, is provided for residential and nonresidential portions of a mixed-use development, separate areas/levels and entrances should be provided for each use whenever possible, or as otherwise determined pursuant to a shared parking study, parking agreement, and/or Parking Management Plan as approved by the City of Westminster.

Loading areas for nonresidential uses shall be located away from residential units and shall be completely screened from view from public streets, adjacent residential uses, and on-site residential uses provided as part of the mixed-use development. Loading areas shall be compatible in architectural design and details with the overall project. The location and design of loading areas shall mitigate nuisances from noise when residential uses might be impacted.

Mixed-Use Open Space Standards.

Multiple-Family Residential Projects.

A minimum of 40 square feet of private open space per dwelling unit shall be provided for at least 75% of the units.

The remaining 25% of units may satisfy the open space requirement through common open space, if desired.

A minimum of 60 square feet of common open space per dwelling unit shall be provided.

Nonresidential Projects. A minimum of 20% of the site area shall be provided as open space. Up to 80% of the required open space may consist of decorative hardscape.

Mixed-Use Projects.

Private open space shall be provided consistent with the requirements for multiple-family residential development.

For horizontal mixed-use developments, required common open space shall be consistent with the greater of the residential or nonresidential open space requirement.

For vertical mixed-use developments, required common open space shall be consistent with the lesser of the residential or nonresidential open space requirement.

Open Space Dimensions. Private open space areas shall have a minimum horizontal dimension of five feet, and common open space areas shall have a minimum horizontal dimension of 10 feet.

(Ord. 2634, 5/13/2026)

§ 17.260.020 Mixed-Use Zoning District Additional Standards.

Design Guidelines.

Development within the MU zone shall be designed in accordance with the applicable Westminster Design Guidelines Manual.

For mixed-use development projects which are not governed by the Civic Center Area Design Guidelines, or the Little Saigon Area Design Guidelines, the Commercial Design Guidelines shall apply to the overall site and building design, including ground-floor nonresidential components, and shall be used to implement the General Plan's vision for mixed-use areas. Residential Design Guidelines shall apply to residential components of the project, as applicable.

Where there is a conflict between the Westminster Design Guidelines Manual and the standards contained in this Chapter, the standards of Chapter 17.260 shall prevail.

Building Design and Articulation Standards. The following building design and articulation standards shall apply in addition to the general development standards included in Table 2-9.

Rooflines. Rooflines, whether pitched or flat, shall be vertically articulated at least every 50 feet, using architectural elements such as parapets, varying cornices, reveals, clerestory windows, and varying roof height and/or form.

Screening. The screening and separation of adjoining residential uses, equipment, trash enclosures, accessory outdoor storage areas (i.e., storage for maintenance or landscaping supplies), and surface-parking areas from adjoining residential development shall be provided in accordance with Section 17.300.035 of this Title. See Subsection E below for additional refuse and recyclable materials storage requirements.

Corner Buildings. All corner buildings shall:

Incorporate visually interesting architectural elements such as towers, cornice features, roof shapes, or roofline variation.

Be oriented toward the primary intersection and the primary and secondary street frontages, while parking and auto access shall be located away from the primary intersection corners.

Massing Relief for Multistory Buildings. All multistory buildings in the MU zone must incorporate at least one of the following building massing relief features:

Upper floor change in wall plane of at least four feet in depth (either recess or projection) for at least 30% of the front façade length. See Figure 2-1; or

A vertical façade break for all floors with a minimum depth of six feet for a minimum of 15% of the front façade length. Non-recessed building walls shall not exceed a width of 50 feet. See Figure 2-2.

Additional Massing Relief for Buildings Four Stories or More. In addition to features required for all multistory buildings in Subsection B.4 above, buildings four stories or more must also incorporate at least one of the following additional features:

From the fourth story and above, a recessed stepback facing the primary street of at least four feet for the entire façade length. See Figure 2-3. Recessed area may be used as a balcony, terrace, or other usable open space.

From the fourth story and above, a recessed stepback facing the primary street of at least 10 feet for a minimum of 35% of the façade length. See Figure 2-4. Recessed area may be used as a balcony, terrace, or other usable open space.

Other alternative comparable method, as determined by the review authority through the development review process, to break down the massing of large building façades and complement the surrounding context.

Figure 2-1: Upper Floor Change

Figure 2-2: Vertical Façade Break

Figure 2-3: Upper Story Stepback (Entire Façade Length)

Figure 2-4: Upper Story Stepback (Partial Façade Length)

Public Realm Standards. The public realm in MU zone consists of three areas: the frontage area, pedestrian area, and vehicular area. See Figure 2-5. The following public realm standards shall apply in addition to the general development standards included in Table 2-9 and in Subsection B above.

Frontage Area. The frontage area consists of the area between the primary building façade and the sidewalk. The frontage area is located on private property. The following frontage area standards apply to development in the MU zone:

The frontage area along commercial or mixed-use frontages shall be an extension of the sidewalk, landscaped, used for outdoor dining space, or used for other purposes that enhance the pedestrian environment. The frontage area along buildings without doors or windows shall be enhanced with at least two pedestrian amenities for every 30 feet of frontage (e.g., potted plants, bench seating, or other pedestrian amenities).

The frontage area along residential frontages shall provide pathways connecting the sidewalk to the front door and to any parking areas, and shall otherwise be landscaped across the entire property frontage, with the exception of a pedestrian walkway, as described in Subsection C.2.

Ground floor retail storefronts shall provide a minimum of 60% of the front façade area as open exposure to the street through the use of windows, doors, and other openings in order to allow views of indoor space. Windows shall be transparent; opaque or reflective glazing is not permitted. For corner buildings, this requirement shall apply to both street-facing sides. See Figure 2-6.

Pedestrian Area. The pedestrian area consists of the pedestrian walkway and an additional area adjacent to the curb for trees, planters, lighting, and other pedestrian amenities. This area is typically located in the public right-of-way. The following pedestrian area standards apply to development in the MU zone, as shown in Figure 2-7.

Public sidewalks abutting a development parcel shall have a minimum sidewalk width of at least 10 feet as measured curb face.

A minimum six-foot clear and unobstructed path shall be provided in the pedestrian area to accommodate pedestrian movement.

The pedestrian area shall contain at least one irrigated curbside street tree for every 40 linear feet of sidewalk and shall comply with requirements set in Chapter 12.12 (Street Forestry Policy).

Curbside sidewalk tree wells shall be between four and six feet in width.

Landscape and street lighting shall be located within a minimum four-foot wide area adjacent to the back of curb.

If the existing public right-of-way area between the curb and the property line is insufficient to meet the minimum standards above, extension of the sidewalk onto the property, with corresponding dedication, shall be provided.

Vehicular Area. The vehicular area consists of vehicular travel lanes and may include bike lanes and parking lanes. The vehicular area is located in the public right-of-way. The following vehicular area standards apply to development in the MU zone:

Development shall implement the Mobility Element of the City of Westminster General Plan.

Figure 2-5: Public Realm Standards

Figure 2-6: Open Exposure (Transparency) Standards

Figure 2-7: Pedestrian Area Standards

Public Art Requirement.

Purpose. The purpose of this requirement is to encourage incorporation of public art into mixed-use development in a manner that contributes to the public realm and community identity.

Applicability. Development projects within the MU zone that require Development Review approval shall incorporate a public art element as part of the project design.

Exemptions. The public art requirement shall not apply to:

Residential projects consisting of nine dwelling units or fewer; or

Nonresidential projects that add less than 10,000 square feet of new building floor area.

Public art required pursuant to this Section shall comply with all of the following:

Integration. The public art shall be permanently integrated into the project site or building design.

Visibility. The public art shall be clearly visible from a public street, sidewalk, or publicly accessible area.

Minimum Size. The public art shall meet the following minimum size requirements:

Wall-mounted or façade-integrated art, including murals or similar installations, shall have a minimum surface area of 150 square feet. For development sites with more than 1,000 linear feet of street frontage, the required minimum surface area shall be increased to at least 300 square feet, which may be provided as a single installation or as multiple coordinated installations distributed along the street frontage.

ii.

Ground-mounted or freestanding art, including sculptures, decorative fountains, decorative seating or benches, or water features, shall occupy a minimum footprint of 50 square feet.

Exclusions. Decorative architectural finishes, supergraphics, branding elements, logos, signage, or sign copy regulated under this Title shall not be considered public art for purposes of this Section, regardless of size, color, or artistic treatment.

Refuse, Organic, and Recyclable Materials Storage Requirements. In addition to requirements set in Section 17.300.045, the following shall apply to all MU zones:

Refuse, organic, and recycling enclosures for nonresidential uses shall be located away from residential units and shall be completely screened from view from the residential portion of the project, from public streets, and from adjacent residential uses.

The location and design of refuse, organic, and recycling enclosures shall mitigate nuisances from noise and odors.

Undergrounding of Utilities. All utilities, including telephone, cable television, and electric systems, required within the limits of all MU zones shall be located underground. The undergrounding of utilities shall apply to any new building or structure constructed on a parcel of land or when substantial reconstruction of an existing building or structure results in an addition exceeding 50% of the total square footage of the existing building or structure.

Live/Work Use Standards. The following standards shall apply to live/work development. All other provisions of Article 3 of this Title shall apply.

The minimum square footage of a live/work unit shall be 1,000 square feet.

All living space within the live/work unit shall be contiguous with, and an integral part of, the working space, with direct access between the two areas.

At least one of the workers of the live/work unit shall reside in the unit. The residential area shall not be rented separately from the working space. The business activity occupying the live/work unit may have employees in addition to residents, as necessary.

Complete kitchen space and sanitary facilities shall be provided for each unit in compliance with all applicable codes.

The nonresidential ground floor portion of the unit shall comprise no less than one-third of the ground floor space, not including stairwells.

All work activities and workspace shall be limited to the first floor.

The nonresidential component of a live/work unit shall only be a nonresidential use allowed within the MU zone.

All activities related to the "work" component of the live/work unit shall be conducted within the interior of the same live/work unit.

Retail space may be integrated with working space.

10.

A live/work unit shall be used for both residential and nonresidential purposes; use of a live/work unit exclusively for nonresidential use is prohibited.

11.

A business license shall be obtained in compliance with the WMC for business activities conducted within the live/work unit.

12.

The ground floor of the live/work unit shall provide a minimum 40% open exposure to the street through the use of windows, doors, and other openings in order to allow views of indoor space. Windows shall be transparent; opaque or reflective glazing is not permitted.

13.

Signage shall be a maximum of three square feet; illumination is prohibited.

(Ord. 2634, 5/13/2026)

Westminster City Zoning Code

ARTICLE 2

§ 17.200.005 Purpose.

§ 17.200.010 Zoning Districts Established.

§ 17.200.015 Adopted Zoning Map.

§ 17.200.020 Zoning District Regulations.

§ 17.200.022 Marijuana Cultivation and Cannabis Activity.

§ 17.210.005 Purpose.

§ 17.210.010 Residential Zoning District Land Uses and Permit Requirements.

§ 17.210.015 Residential Zoning District Development Standards.

§ 17.220.005 Purpose.

§ 17.220.010 Commercial Zoning District Land Uses and Permit Requirements.

§ 17.220.015 Commercial Zoning District Development Standards.

§ 17.230.005 Purpose.

§ 17.230.010 Industrial Zoning District Land Uses and Permit Requirements.

§ 17.230.015 Industrial Zoning District Development Standards.

§ 17.240.005 Purpose.

§ 17.240.010 Cemetery (CEM) Zoning District Requirements.

§ 17.240.015 Public/Semi-Public (P/SP) Zoning District Requirements.

§ 17.240.020 Park/Open Space (P/OS) Zoning District Requirements.

§ 17.240.025 Public Facilities (PF) District Requirements.

§ 17.240.030 Specific Plan (SP) District Requirements.

§ 17.250.005 Purpose.

§ 17.250.010 Applicability of Overlay Zones.

§ 17.250.015 (Reserved)

§ 17.250.018 Emergency Shelter (ES) Overlay.

§ 17.250.020 (Reserved)

§ 17.250.025 Parking (P) Overlay.

§ 17.250.030 Planned Development (PD) Overlay.

§ 17.250.035 Housing (H) Overlay.

§ 17.260.005 Purpose.

§ 17.260.010 Mixed-Use Zoning District Land Uses and Permit Requirements.

§ 17.260.015 Mixed-Use Zoning District Development Standards.

§ 17.260.020 Mixed-Use Zoning District Additional Standards.