Frequently Asked Questions

Each lot is unique and what can be built depends on many factors (e.g. zoning district, lot size, lot configuration, and existing square footage to name a few). Please review the zoning map and handouts and set up an appointment to meet with a planner prior to submitting your plans.

The maximum size of a house, or Floor Area Ratio in Atherton depends on the size of the lot and the residential zone in which the property is located. Information pertaining to the maximum allowable FAR can be found in Chapter 17.32 and 17.33 of the Town Zoning Ordinance.

Atherton has two residential zones, R1A and R1B. There are also Public Facilities Zones, comprised of public schools and Town administration offices, and Public Open Space zones containing parks and open space.

There are no commercial zones in Atherton.

There are three private schools and five public schools in Atherton Town Limits. Private schools include Sacred Heart, Menlo School, and Menlo College. Public schools include Las Lomitas School, Selby Lane School, Menlo Atherton High School, Encinal School, Laurel School.

The Town of Atherton does not regulate private rental agreements between a landlord and a renter, however these types of agreements shall involve some sort of lease agreement for use of the property as a single family residence, and short-term rentals (Airbnb) are not permitted.

You rent your home to a family or a group of individuals. Homes can be shared by a group of individuals but cannot be rented like a rooming house or boarding house.

Yes - use and development standards for second units are regulated by the Second Dwelling Unit Ordinance found in Chapter 17.52 of the Town Zoning Code. The Planning Department page also includes a handout detailing size, location, and design requirements for second dwelling units.

The Town of Atherton does not allow commercial-residential uses. Prohibited uses include hotels, motels, boardinghouses, and transient guest quarters, including bed and breakfasts. Renting homes on VRBO or Airbnb would be considered commercial use and are not allowed.

There are approximately 2,700 lots in Atherton