San Bruno · Land use · Emergency shelter
Where is an emergency shelter allowed in San Bruno?
In San Bruno, an emergency shelter is allowed in 3 base zones (TOD-S, TOD-1 and TOD-2, all with a condition) and not allowed in 2 (San Bruno use tables, read October 2026).
Key points
- Allowed: TOD-S, TOD-1 and TOD-2
- Not allowed: CBD and MX-R
Find your lot's zone on the city zoning map, then read its row. Every status below was read from the San Bruno 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
San Bruno's code calls this use “Emergency Shelters”. 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 |
|---|---|---|
| TOD-S | Allowed — see note Note 7: Pursuant to performance standards as set forth in Section 12.96.205.E. | § 12.280.020 |
| TOD-1 | Allowed — see note Note 7: Pursuant to performance standards as set forth in Section 12.96.205.E. | § 12.280.020 |
| TOD-2 | Allowed — see note Note 7: Pursuant to performance standards as set forth in Section 12.96.205.E. | § 12.280.020 |
Zones where it is not allowed
What else applies
- Standards for this use: Section 12.96.205.E (performance standards).
- State law: State law (Gov. Code § 65583, SB 2) requires every city to allow emergency shelters by right in at least one zone.
- Not covered here: The packet holds only the mixed-use zones (CBD, TOD-S, TOD-1, TOD-2, MX-R) and the Bayhill specific plan districts. The citywide residential (R-1, R-2, etc.), commercial and industrial district use tables are NOT in the packet, so every page built from these cells covers mixed-use zones only.. Overlay zones and specific plans can also change the answer.
Other uses in San Bruno
Who this affects
Frequently asked questions
Can I have an emergency shelter in the CBD zone in San Bruno?
No. San Bruno's use table does not allow it in CBD (§ 12.280.020).
Can I have an emergency shelter in the TOD-S zone in San Bruno?
Yes, with a condition. San Bruno's use table lists it as allowed in TOD-S (§ 12.280.020). The code adds a condition: “Pursuant to performance standards as set forth in Section 12.96.205.E.”
General information, not legal advice.
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