Lot coverage in Sunnyvale is capped by zoning under SMC Title 19. R-1 lots typically allow about 40 percent building coverage, with separate floor area ratio (FAR) limits.
Lot coverage, the share of a lot covered by buildings, is limited in SMC Title 19. Single-family R-1 districts typically allow about 40 percent maximum lot coverage by primary and accessory structures combined. Floor Area Ratio (FAR) is a separate limit that governs total building floor area, often around 0.45 FAR in R-1 with step-downs for larger lots. Impervious surface coverage (including driveways and patios) is regulated separately through stormwater and landscaping rules. ADUs up to 800 square feet are exempt from being denied solely on lot-coverage or FAR grounds under state law (Government Code 65852.2). Sunnyvale Planning reviews lot coverage during permit review using plot plans that show footprints and hardscape.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Santa Clara County.
See how other cities in Santa Clara County handle lot coverage limits.
See how Sunnyvale's lot coverage limits rules stack up against other locations.
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