San Francisco Planning Code establishes setback requirements that vary by zoning district. Residential districts (RH, RM, RC) require rear yard setbacks of 25-45% of lot depth. Front setbacks are based on the prevailing pattern of the blockface. Side setbacks apply in some districts.
Rear yard requirements are the primary setback in most residential districts: RH-1 and RH-2 zones require 45% of lot depth or 15 feet (whichever is greater) at the lowest story, with reductions at upper stories. Front setbacks must match the average of adjacent buildings or the prevailing pattern. Side yard setbacks are not universally required but apply in RH-1 zones and for specific building types. The Planning Code allows exceptions through variance procedures. ADUs have reduced setback requirements per state law. Mixed-use and commercial districts have different setback standards.
Construction that violates setback requirements will not receive building permits. Unpermitted construction in setback areas is subject to enforcement action, including removal and restoration.
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See how San Francisco's setback rules rules stack up against other locations.
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