Sacramento County Zoning Code (Title 3) sets residential setbacks by zone. Typical RD-5 standards: 20 ft front, 5 ft side, 15 ft rear. Agricultural and rural residential zones require greater setbacks. ADUs benefit from state-mandated 4 ft side/rear setbacks under Gov Code 65852.2 regardless of underlying zone.
Sacramento County Zoning Code Title 3 establishes building setbacks that vary by zoning district. Typical single-family residential (RD-5, RD-7) standards include a 20-foot front setback, 5-foot side setbacks, and 15-foot rear setback; exact figures depend on the zone and any applicable Community Plan. Agricultural (AG), Agricultural-Residential (AR), and Rural Residential (RR) zones require significantly larger setbacks (often 40-50 feet front, 20-30 feet side/rear) commensurate with larger lot sizes. Corner lots have a street-side setback in addition to the front. Accessory dwelling units (ADUs) are governed by CA Gov. Code 65852.2 which establishes maximum allowable setbacks of 4 feet side and rear regardless of underlying zoning, and cities/counties cannot require greater setbacks for state-conforming ADUs. Setback exceptions exist for architectural features (eaves, chimneys) up to specified projections. Variances require Planning Commission review.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
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