Berkeley residential setbacks require 20-foot front, 4-foot side, and 15-foot rear yards in R-1 zones under Title 23 Zoning Ordinance, with ADU exceptions under SB 9 and state ADU law.
Berkeley Municipal Code Title 23 (Zoning Ordinance) establishes yard setback requirements varying by zone district. In R-1 (Single-Family Residential) zones, minimum setbacks are typically 20 feet front yard, 4 feet interior side yard, and 15 feet rear yard, with height planes limiting upper-story encroachment. R-2 and R-3 multifamily zones have reduced setbacks. State ADU law Government Code 65852.2 preempts local setbacks for detached ADUs requiring only 4 feet side and rear. SB 9 (Government Code 65852.21) allows 4-foot setbacks for duplex conversions and urban lot splits. Corner lots have street side setback requirements. Berkeley Solar Access Ordinance (first in US, 1978) also restricts structures that shade neighbors solar collectors. Variances require Zoning Adjustments Board approval with findings of hardship.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Berkeley, CA
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Alameda County.
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