Oceanside's Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance establishes minimum building setbacks by district. Residential zones require front, side, and rear yard setbacks that vary by zone designation. ADUs have reduced setback requirements under state law.
The Oceanside Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance Article 10 (Residential Districts) establishes setback requirements for each residential zone. Front yard setbacks vary by district and typically range from 15 to 25 feet. Side yard setbacks are typically 5-10 feet depending on the zone and building height. Rear yard setbacks are typically 15-25 feet. Corner lots have additional exterior side yard requirements. Detached ADUs taking advantage of the state-mandated 4-foot setback provision must not exceed 16 feet in height (or 18 feet within half a mile of a rail station). Setback encroachments may be permitted for specific architectural features such as eaves, chimneys, and bay windows with limited projection distances. Swimming pools must also maintain setbacks from property lines. The Zoning Ordinance is available through the city's Codes/Regulations/Maps page.
Building within required setbacks without a variance is a code violation. Structures may be required to be moved or demolished. Contact the Planning Division at (760) 435-3520.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in San Diego County.
See how other cities in San Diego County handle setback rules.
See how Oceanside's setback rules rules stack up against other locations.
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