Sunnyvale setbacks depend on zoning district under SMC Title 19. Typical R-1 single-family lots require 20-foot front, 5-foot side, and 20-foot rear setbacks.
Sunnyvale sets minimum building setbacks by zoning district in SMC Title 19 (Zoning). In the common R-1 single-family district, the baseline setbacks are roughly 20 feet in front, 5 to 6 feet on interior sides, 10 feet on street sides of a corner lot, and 20 feet in the rear. Multifamily and commercial districts have different dimensions tied to building height and street frontage. Accessory dwelling units (ADUs) benefit from state-mandated reduced setbacks (generally 4 feet side and rear per Government Code 65852.2). Encroachments such as eaves, chimneys, and bay windows can project into setbacks up to defined limits. Detached structures under 120 square feet may be exempt from permit but must still meet zoning setbacks. Variances for reduced setbacks require a Planning Commission hearing.
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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