What does R-1 zoning allow in Ferndale?
R-1 allows more housing types than most cities' base residential districts. One-unit and two-unit dwellings are permitted by right (Section 2.05). Three- and four-unit dwellings are allowed as special land uses, which require Planning Commission review and final City Council approval (Section 10.03.A). Accessory dwellings are also permitted by right, with no owner-occupancy requirement in the code (Sections 2.05, 5.01).
The overall cap is four units per lot, including an accessory dwelling (Section 2.03.A).
Other allowances in R-1:
- Home-based businesses, permitted with conditions (Section 5.06)
- Short-term rentals, permitted with licensing (Section 5.23)
Dimensional basics: minimum lot 4,000 sq ft and 35 ft wide, 5 ft side setbacks, height 30 ft for a one-unit home and 35 ft for two to four units (Section 2.06). For anything not listed in the use table, contact CED Planning at 248-336-4370.
Sources
Full text: Ferndale ordinance on city-hosted PDF (Municipal Code Online mirror). Applies to district: R-1.
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