Number of Tenants vs Zoning Laws

[Byron Broughten]

I have a 1BR/3BR duplex in an area zoned so as only single family homes and duplexes are allowed. The 3BR unit, however, used to be two units, and could feasibly be rented as a 3BR/Studio or maybe (with a little work) a 2BR/1BR--but then I would be using the property like a triplex.

So I wonder, given the zoning law, would illegal be to rent the 3BR unit with two leases? Or if so, would a viable move be to put everyone on a single lease but specify different portions of rent from those who reside in different parts of the property?

Advice much appreciated.