Newport Beach, CA Building Setbacks & Zoning: Setback Rules (2026)

Newport Beach Zoning Code (NBMC Title 20) establishes minimum setback requirements for all new construction and additions based on zoning district. In single-family residential zones (R-1), front setbacks are typically 20 feet, side setbacks are 3 to 4 feet (with combined side setbacks totaling at least 10 feet in some districts), and rear setbacks are 10 feet. Multi-family residential zones (RM) generally require front setbacks of 15 to 20 feet, side setbacks of 3 to 5 feet, and rear setbacks of 5 to 10 feet. Commercial zones have variable setbacks depending on the specific district and adjacent uses. Corner lots require additional side-street setbacks, typically equal to or greater than the front setback. Encroachments into required setbacks are limited to specific architectural features including eaves (up to 2.5 feet), bay windows, chimneys, and uncovered porches. Properties located along coastal bluffs are subject to additional bluff-edge setback requirements under the Coastal Land Use Plan, which may require structures to be set back from the bluff edge based on geological stability analysis. The Community Development Department reviews all setback calculations during plan check. Variance requests for setback reductions require a hearing before the Zoning Administrator or Planning Commission with findings that strict application of setback requirements would create unnecessary hardship unique to the property.