Building height limits in unincorporated San Diego County are set by the Zoning Ordinance based on zone designation. Most residential zones allow structures up to 35 feet. Some zones permit up to 45 feet. Height is measured from finished grade to the highest point of the roof.
The County Zoning Ordinance establishes maximum building heights for each zone. Most residential zones (RS, RR, RC) allow buildings up to 35 feet. Some zones may allow up to 45 feet with conditions. Height is measured from finished grade to the highest point of the structure. Accessory structures typically have lower height limits. ADUs are limited based on state law: detached ADUs can be up to 16 feet at the property line, taller with 4-foot setbacks. Height limits may be more restrictive in scenic corridors, coastal zones, and areas near airports. Community plan areas may have additional height restrictions. Height variances require demonstrated hardship.
Buildings exceeding height limits may require modification, partial demolition, or retroactive variance approval. Stop-work orders issued during construction.
San Diego County, CA
San Diego County Code Chapter 6 (Animal Control) and the noise ordinance address barking dogs. Persistently barking dogs that disturb neighbors violate Secti...
San Diego County, CA
San Diego County Code of Regulatory Ordinances Section 36.404 sets noise limits by property zone and time of day. Residential zones: 50 dBA daytime (7 AM–10 ...
San Diego County, CA
Vehicles on public streets in unincorporated San Diego County cannot be parked for more than 72 consecutive hours. A vehicle must be moved at least 0.5 miles...
San Diego County, CA
Unincorporated San Diego County does not have a blanket overnight parking ban. The 72-hour parking rule applies. Some specific communities or HOAs may impose...
San Diego County, CA
Unincorporated San Diego County enforces the 2022 California Residential Code Section R314 (adopted under County Code Title 9, Division 1) for smoke alarms. ...
San Diego County, CA
Tree trimming in unincorporated San Diego County is required for defensible space maintenance (branches pruned to 6 feet above ground), utility clearance, an...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in San Diego County.
See how other cities in San Diego County handle structure height limits.
See how Bostonia's structure height limits rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.