Aliso Viejo, CA Building Setbacks & Zoning: Structure Height Limits (2026)

The residential height limits in the City of Aliso Viejo sit in the Maximum structure height row of Table 15.10.030 (Residential Development Standards). RL, Low Density Residential, is capped at 35 feet and a maximum of 2 stories, and lofts do not count as a separate story. RM, Medium Density Residential, is capped at 35 feet. RH, High Density Residential, is 45 feet. RVH, Very High Density Residential, is 65 feet. In a PRD, a planned residential development, height is as approved for each project. Footnote 1 to the table points to Chapter 15.30 AVMC for additional provisions regarding height limits.

AVMC 15.30.010 defines how height is measured: the maximum height of buildings and other structures is the vertical distance from finish grade to an imaginary plane directly above the building site, established above and parallel to the finish grade adjacent to the exterior walls at a vertical distance equal to the specified maximum height.

Some features can rise above the limit. Under AVMC 15.30.020, architectural features not containing usable floor space, such as chimneys, towers, gables, and spires, can extend up to five feet above the maximum structure height, and their aggregate footprint area can encompass no more than five percent of the ground floor area of the building. Under AVMC 15.30.030, flagpoles are permitted up to 35 feet in residential districts.

Taller structures need discretionary approval. AVMC 15.30.050 allows structures up to 50 feet with an exception permit under AVMC 15.74.070, if the decision-making authority finds the increased height will not create adverse visual impacts due to abrupt changes in vertical scale between the structure and nearby buildings or public spaces. Structures over 50 feet need a specific plan or conditional use permit and three findings on open space, design and visual impact.

Footnote 4 to the table adds that in the PRD column all minimum perimeter setbacks increase 1 foot for every foot in height above 35 feet, so height in a PRD also changes the required setback.