Berkeley · Land use · Live-work unit
Where is a live-work unit allowed in Berkeley?
In Berkeley, a live-work unit is needs an use permit in 1 (R-BMU, it with a condition) and not allowed in 12 (Berkeley use tables, read October 2026).
Key points
- Needs a permit: R-BMU
- Not allowed: R-1, ES-R, R-2, R-2A, R-3, R-4, R-5, R-S and 4 more
Find your lot's zone on the city zoning map, then read its row. Every status below was read from the Berkeley Municipal Code use tables (read October 2026). Base zones only. General information, not legal advice — check with the city before you apply.
Zones where a live-work unit can go
Berkeley's code calls this use “Live/Work”. Each row links to the use table it comes from. A zone marked “see note” has a condition in the code, for example upper floors only or a larger lot.
| Zone | Status | Code |
|---|---|---|
| R-BMU Residential BART Mixed Use District | Needs an use permit — see note Note *: * = Use-Specific Regulations Apply (see 23.312) Note **: Required permits for specific uses are set forth in the R-BMU Master Development Permit (MDP). See 23.202.150.A and 23.202.150.D | § 23.202.020 |
Zones where it is not allowed
What else applies
- Standards for this use: Chapter 23.312 Live/Work (not in the packet).
- All C districts (S3) and MU-LI, MU-R (S6) read "See 23.312 --Live/Work"; the permit is in Chapter 23.312, not in the packet.
- Not covered here: Other zoning districts of Division 2 (e.g. mixed-use or special districts) whose tables are not in the packet. Overlay zones and specific plans can also change the answer.
Other uses in Berkeley
Who this affects
Frequently asked questions
Can I have a live-work unit in the R-BMU zone in Berkeley?
Only with an use permit. Berkeley's use table lists it that way in R-BMU (Residential BART Mixed Use District) (§ 23.202.020). The code adds a condition: “* = Use-Specific Regulations Apply (see 23.312) Required permits for specific uses are set forth in the R-BMU Master Development Permit (MDP). See 23.202.150.A and 23.202.150.D”
Can I have a live-work unit in the R-1 zone in Berkeley?
No. Berkeley's use table does not allow it in R-1 (§ 23.202.020).
General information, not legal advice.
Ask about a live-work unit at an address in Berkeley
Ask GoCodebook what the zoning at a specific address allows and get an answer that cites the section.
Ask your question