What can I build in R1, R2, or R3 zoning in Birmingham?
R1, R2, and R3 are single-family residential districts, and the core permitted use is a one-family dwelling. The permitted list also covers single-family cluster developments subject to use-specific standards, adult foster care group homes, public schools, parks, and government offices. Any use the district does not list is not permitted (§ 1.13).
Accessory uses are allowed alongside the home:
- Private garage and private swimming pool
- Home occupation, subject to conditions (§ 5.02)
- Family day care home
- Renting of rooms to no more than 2 roomers (§ 5.02(D))
The three districts differ mainly in scale. Minimum lot area per unit is 9,000 sq ft in R1, 6,000 in R2, and 4,500 in R3 (§§ 2.04-2.10). Churches, private schools, assisted living, and similar institutional uses need a special land use permit from the City Commission. Two-family homes belong in R4, not these districts.
Sources
Full text: Birmingham ordinance on enCodePlus. Applies to districts: R1, R2, R3, R1A.
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