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

Building height in unincorporated Calaveras County is governed by the development-standards tables of the Zoning Code (Title 17, adopted July 16, 2024). Under Table 17.04.030 for Resource Zones (GF, TP, A1, AP, RA), the maximum building height is 35 feet, with a notation that there is 'No maximum for agricultural buildings,' reflecting the county's farming and ranching land uses. Under Table 17.05.030 for Residential Zones, the maximum building height is 35 feet in RR, R1, and R2, and 45 feet in R3. Height is measured under the rules in Section 17.02.030.C, and Section 17.16.090, Height Exceptions, allows certain features to exceed the zone limit: 'Antennae, chimneys, poles, silos, stair towers, roof top mechanical equipment and associated screening, and safety devices may exceed the maximum permitted height for the Zoning District in which they are located,' subject to limitations within the Airport Overflight Overlay Zone, and 'Stair towers and mechanical equipment shall not exceed the maximum permitted height for the Zoning District ... by more than 10 feet.' Commercial and Industrial zones have their own height standards (generally 35 to 45 feet depending on the zone). Because the applicable maximum depends on the zone and whether an exception applies, property owners should confirm the zoning designation and any overlay with the Calaveras County Planning Department.