It is a common misunderstanding that the zoning classifications can be interpreted as follows...

In fact, it doesn't work that way at all.  So, how can we understand the limits of how many unrelated people can live in a property based on the zoning of that property?

Below is a table of very helpful data -- tucked within the resource materials for the work session scheduled for tomorrow related to Short Term Rentals in the City of Harrisonburg.

The same data can also be found, organized slightly differently, on the City's website here.

  download a PDF that you can actually read, here

This table outlines how many unrelated people can live in a home (detached home, duplex, townhouse, condo, etc.) in Harrisonburg based on the zoning of that property.

Of note, there can be exceptions to these generalities -- based on a special use permit for a property, or if a property use is "grandfathered in" based on that use existing since before zoning regulations limited the use.

But this is a very helpful starting point for understanding how many unrelated people can live in a property in the City based on the zoning of that property.