Burlingame · Land use · Emergency shelter
Where is an emergency shelter allowed in Burlingame?
In Burlingame, an emergency shelter is allowed in 2 base zones (I-I and RRMU, 1 with a condition) and not allowed in 16 (Burlingame use tables, read October 2026).
Key points
- Allowed: I-I and RRMU
- Not allowed: R-1, R-2, R-3, R-4, C-1, BFC, CMU, BRMU and 8 more
Find your lot's zone on the city zoning map, then read its row. Every status below was read from the Burlingame Municipal Code use tables (read October 2026). Base zones only. General information, not legal advice — check with the city before you apply.
Zones where an emergency shelter can go
Burlingame's code calls this use “Emergency Shelters — Permanent”. 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 |
|---|---|---|
| I-I Innovation Industrial | Allowed — see note Note Specific Use Regulations: Permitted only on properties located north of Mills Creek. | Article 2 — Zoning Districts, Allowable uses, and Development Standards |
| RRMU North Rollins Road Mixed-Use | Allowed | Article 2 — Zoning Districts, Allowable uses, and Development Standards |
Zones where it is not allowed
What else applies
- Standards for this use: See Section 25.48.100 (Emergency Shelters - Permanent).
- 'Emergency Shelters - Temporary': CUP (accessory use only) in R-3, R-4; P in I-I (within a transportation corridor, max 6 months in any 12); A in CMU, RRMU, NBMU; CUP in BMU. 'Low Barrier Navigation Center' is a separate row.
- State law: State law (Gov. Code § 65583, SB 2) requires every city to allow emergency shelters by right in at least one zone.
- Overlay zones and specific plans can change the answer for a lot.
Other uses in Burlingame
Who this affects
Frequently asked questions
Can I have an emergency shelter in the R-1 zone in Burlingame?
No. Burlingame's use table does not allow it in R-1 (Low Density Residential) (Article 2 — Zoning Districts, Allowable uses, and Development Standards).
Can I have an emergency shelter in the I-I zone in Burlingame?
Yes, with a condition. Burlingame's use table lists it as allowed in I-I (Innovation Industrial) (Article 2 — Zoning Districts, Allowable uses, and Development Standards). The code adds a condition: “Permitted only on properties located north of Mills Creek.”
General information, not legal advice.
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