Galt single-family zones typically cap total building lot coverage at 40 to 50 percent of the parcel area, including the main house, garage, and accessory structures. Impervious surface limits also apply for stormwater compliance.
Lot coverage in Galt residential zones is calculated as the sum of ground-floor building footprints divided by total lot area. Standard single-family zones generally allow 40 to 50 percent building coverage, depending on the specific zone designation. The calculation includes the main dwelling, garage, detached ADU, and any permitted accessory structure with a roof. Decks, patios, and driveways are not building coverage but do count toward total impervious surface limits used in stormwater calculations. New construction and major additions must submit a site plan showing coverage percentages. Lots with existing coverage above the current limit are legal nonconforming and may be maintained but generally not expanded. Floor area ratio (FAR) may apply in addition to lot coverage in some zones, limiting total building square footage to a multiple of the lot area. Accessory dwelling units up to 800 square feet are exempt from lot coverage caps that would otherwise prevent at least one ADU per state law.
Exceeding lot coverage requires redesign, variance, or removal of added structures. Unpermitted coverage increases may also trigger stormwater mitigation requirements.
See how other cities in Sacramento County handle lot coverage limits.
See how Galt's lot coverage limits rules stack up against other locations.
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