Santa Cruz County, CA Building Setbacks & Zoning: Structure Height Limits (2026)

Maximum building height for residential development is set by SCCC 13.10.323 and the Site and Structural Dimensions Chart. Across most single-family R-1 zones and the multifamily RM-1.5 to RM-4 districts, the maximum building height is 28 feet, generally limited to 2 stories. The oceanfront RB (single-family ocean beach residential) district is limited to 25 feet, and to 17 feet on the beach side, reflecting view protection near the cliffs and beach. In the rural and large-lot districts (RR, RA, and R-1 over 1 acre), homes may be up to 3 stories within the 28-foot maximum height to accommodate sloping rural sites. Within the Urban Services Line, the RF (Residential Flex) and some higher-density multifamily districts allow greater height — RF up to 40 feet and three stories, and certain RM districts up to 35 feet within the USL. Height is measured per the County's definitions, and number of stories is further limited outside the Urban Services Line by the General Plan. Open safety railings up to 42 inches on steep slopes are allowed per SCCC 13.10.323. Variations from maximum height and stories may be approved for qualifying affordable-housing projects. In the Coastal Zone, height and massing are subject to scenic and public-view findings.