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 adult foster care group homes, public schools, parks, and government offices. Single-family cluster developments are permitted in R1A, R1, and R2, but not in R3, where § 5.02 does not extend the cluster option. 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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