Anaheim, California Zoning & Land Use Guide
Sources checked· 2026-05-24
Last updated: Verified:
Key Zoning Facts
Regulatory Layers That Apply in Anaheim
Your property is subject to ALL of these regulatory layers. Each one can impose additional requirements beyond the others.
Federal
- FEMA flood mapping: check parcel-specific flood-zone status
- View FEMA Flood Map
State — California
- Building Code: 2022 California Building Code (Title 24, based on 2021 IBC)
- Energy Code: 2022 California Energy Code (Title 24, Part 6)
- Seismic Zone: Zone 4 (high seismicity)
- State ADU Override: Yes (AB 68, SB 13, AB 881, AB 2221)
County — Orange County
- Role: Regional planning coordination and unincorporated area regulation
City / Municipal
The municipality's zoning ordinance, building-code enforcement, and local permits form the primary local layer of land-use regulation for your property.
Overlay Districts
- Anaheim Resort Specific Plan — Overlay governing development in the Disneyland Resort area with unique land use, design, and density standards.
- Scenic Corridor Overlay — Properties along designated scenic corridors are subject to additional design and landscaping standards.
Private Restrictions
- Private covenants, deed restrictions, condominium rules, or association rules can impose requirements beyond zoning.
- Many Anaheim neighborhoods have active HOAs with CC&Rs that may restrict ADU construction or impose design guidelines beyond city zoning requirements.
Primary Zoning Districts
RS-2Single-Family Residential
- Min Lot
- 7,200 sq ft
- Max Height
- 28 ft / 2 stories
- Front Setback
- 20 ft
- Side Setback
- 5 ft
- Rear Setback
- 20 ft
RS-3Single-Family Residential - 3
- Min Lot
- 5,000 sq ft
- Max Height
- 28 ft / 2 stories
- Front Setback
- 15 ft
- Side Setback
- 5 ft
- Rear Setback
- 15 ft
RM-1Multi-Family Residential
- Min Lot
- 7,200 sq ft
- Max Height
- 35 ft / 3 stories
- Front Setback
- 15 ft
- Side Setback
- 5 ft
- Rear Setback
- 20 ft
- FAR
- 1.0
ADU Rules in Anaheim
ADUs:Allowed
- Max Size
- 1,200 sq ft
- Max Height
- 16 ft
- Rear Setback
- 4 ft
- Side Setback
- 4 ft
- Parking
- No additional parking required within 0.5 miles of public transit
- Owner Occupancy
- Not required per state law
- Permit Timeline
- 60 days for ministerial approval
Permit Costs & Timelines
Check Current Permit Fees & Timelines
Permit fees and review times can vary by project type, scope, valuation, and required approvals. Check the current schedule with the local permitting authority before filing.
Check current Anaheim permit information →Official Sources
City-specific
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Anaheim's main residential zoning districts?
Anaheim's primary residential zones include RS-2 and RS-3 for single-family homes and RM-1 for multi-family developments. RS-2 requires larger lots (7,200 sq ft minimum) while RS-3 allows smaller lots (5,000 sq ft minimum).
Can I build an ADU on my Anaheim property?
Yes. ADUs are allowed on most residentially zoned lots in Anaheim under California state law. Detached ADUs up to 1,200 sq ft are permitted with a 60-day ministerial review process.
Does the Anaheim Resort Specific Plan area have different rules?
Yes. Properties within the Anaheim Resort Specific Plan (near Disneyland) are subject to unique land use, design, and density regulations that differ from the standard zoning code. ADU rules still apply to qualifying residential properties within this area.
Disclaimer: The information on this website is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. Zoning codes and building regulations change frequently. Always verify current requirements with your local planning department and building authority before making any decisions.