Kings County, CA Building Setbacks & Zoning: Structure Height Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- By-right height cap
- 30 feet
- Max height with CUP
- 50 feet
- Accessory structure cap
- 3 feet, front yard
- Governing table
- Table 5-2, Sec. 506
Summary
Homes and other structures in Kings County's unincorporated residential zones are capped at 30 feet under Development Code Table 5-2. Builders can reach 50 feet only after securing a Conditional Use Permit from the Planning Commission.
Height of Structures (ft.) Maximum height of structures. 30 30 30 30 30 30 30 30 30 See Note (8) Maximum height of structures with CUP. 50 50 50 50 50 50 50 50 50
Full Breakdown
Development Code Article 5, Table 5-2 sets a flat 30-foot maximum height for structures in every residential district, RR, R-1-20 through R-1-3, and RM-1.5 through RM-3, whether the lot sits in the county's Urban Fringe or Community Districts. Going to 50 feet requires an approved Conditional Use Permit; there is no by-right path past 30 feet. Table Note 8 separately caps accessory structures at 3 feet within a required front yard or Traffic Safety Visibility Area. The rule applies only in unincorporated Kings County, Hanford, Lemoore, Corcoran and Avenal each set their own height limits under their city codes.
Violations & Fines
Building over 30 feet without an approved CUP is an infraction under Development Code § 2403, escalating to a misdemeanor on repeat violations within 12 months, with each day counted separately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build a two-story house taller than 30 feet in Kings County?
Does the 30-foot cap apply in Hanford or Lemoore?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Kings County
California rules heatmap·Compare Kings County to another location·View the California building setbacks & zoning overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.