4750 Merlin, Longview, WA 98632

Residential District

It is the city’s intent that residential neighborhoods and uses be developed and preserved against intrusions by incongruous land uses. These zone classifications are established, in order to permit a variety of housing and population densities with minimum conflict. Protection is provided against hazards, objectionable influences, traffic and building congestion, undue strain on municipal services, and lack of light, air and privacy. Certain essential and compatible public service facilities and institutions are permitted in these districts; There are five primary residential zoning districts established for the city, including two lower density designations R-1, TNR, one medium density designation R-2 and two high density zones R-3, R-4. More limited secondary residential development is allowed in some commercial zone designations as provided for in other chapters. This chapter provides standards for residential land use and development and is based on the following principles: Promote the orderly expansion and improvement of neighborhoods; Make efficient use of land and public services and implement the Longview comprehensive plan; Designate land for the range of housing types and densities needed by the community, including owner-occupied and rental housing; Provide flexible lot standards that encourage compatibility between land uses, efficiency in site design, and environmental compatibility; Provide for compatible building and site design at an appropriate neighborhood scale; provide standards that are in character with the landforms and architecture existing in the community; Apply the minimum amount of regulation necessary to ensure compatibility with existing residences, schools, parks, transportation facilities, and neighborhood services. Reduce reliance on the automobile for neighborhood travel and provide options for walking, bicycling, and transit use; and Provide direct and convenient access to schools, parks and neighborhood services.