Santa Clara R1 zones typically require 20-foot front, 5-foot side, and 20-foot rear setbacks, with reductions available for ADUs under state law AB 2097 and SB 9 provisions.
Santa Clara zoning establishes yard setbacks by district in SCCC Title 18. Single-family R1 lots generally require 20-foot front yards, 5-foot interior side yards (with aggregate requirements), 10-foot street side yards on corner lots, and 20-foot rear yards. Accessory dwelling units may be placed with 4-foot rear and side setbacks per California Government Code Section 65852.2 regardless of local zoning maximums. Corner lot visibility triangles restrict fences and landscaping to preserve sight lines for drivers. Encroachments such as eaves, chimneys, and bay windows may extend up to 2-3 feet into required setbacks per code. Variances are reviewed by the Planning Commission with findings of hardship.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Santa Clara County.
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