Monterey Park, CA Building Setbacks & Zoning: Setback Rules (2026)

Section 21.08.080 adopts Table 21.08(E), Development Standards in Residential Zones, as the code's minimum-yard rulebook for the R-1 (single-family), R-2 (medium-density), and R-3 (high-density) zones. The table sets the front setback at 25 feet and the rear setback at 25 feet in all three zones, with a reduced 10-foot front setback on hillside lots. Interior side yards are set at 5 feet on the first floor in every zone, rising to 10 feet on a second floor. Side yards that face a street are less uniform: R-1 requires 10 feet on the first floor and 15 feet on the second floor, while R-2 and R-3 both require 15 feet on the first floor and 25 feet on the second floor, a meaningfully deeper setback for multi-family buildings facing a street.

The same table sets minimum building separation distances, 10 feet between habitable first floors, 11 feet between habitable second floors, and 5 feet from habitable space to non-habitable space or to an accessory structure's property line, and caps residential buildings at two stories and 30 feet in height citywide, dropping to 15 feet within a required side yard setback area. Section 21.08.080 further allows items listed in Table 21.08(C) to encroach into a required setback with City Planner approval, and Section 21.08.070 separately requires the front yard area to be kept clear of stored materials, trailers, boats, and inoperable vehicles as a property-maintenance matter distinct from the yard's dimensional requirement.