Burlingame · Land use · Apartment building
Where is an apartment building (multifamily housing) allowed in Burlingame?
In Burlingame, an apartment building (multifamily housing) is allowed in 11 base zones (R-3, R-4, CMU, BRMU, RRMU and 6 more, 3 with a condition) and not allowed in 4 (Burlingame use tables, read October 2026).
Key points
- Allowed: R-3, R-4, CMU, BRMU, RRMU, NBMU, BMU, CAR and 3 more
- Not allowed: R-1, R-2, BAC and CAC
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 apartment building (multifamily housing) can go
Burlingame's code calls this use “Multi-Unit Dwellings”. 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.
Zones where it is not allowed
What else applies
- State law: State laws such as AB 2011, SB 6 and the density bonus law can allow homes on some commercial sites, or more units than this table shows.
- 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 apartment building (multifamily housing) 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 apartment building (multifamily housing) in the R-3 zone in Burlingame?
Yes, with a condition. Burlingame's use table lists it as allowed in R-3 (Medium/High Density Residential) (Article 2 — Zoning Districts, Allowable uses, and Development Standards). The code adds a condition: “Within the boundaries of the Downtown Specific Plan, average maximum unit size shall not exceed 1,250 sq. ft.”
General information, not legal advice.
Ask about an apartment building (multifamily housing) at an address in Burlingame
Ask GoCodebook what the zoning at a specific address allows and get an answer that cites the section.
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