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

Structure height limits are set in Chapter 17.22.020 of the Title 17 Zoning Ordinance. The height limit for all structures is forty feet from grade in the A-10, O, O-1, R-1, R-2, RE-1, RE-2, RE-3, RE-5, and RE-10 districts. The limit rises to fifty feet from grade in the higher-intensity districts, including C-K, C-1, C-2, C-S, BP, MU, MPZ, TPZ, P, M-1, M-2, AE-37, K, R-3, C-O, and A-20. Chimneys, vents, and architectural and mechanical appurtenances may exceed the district height limit by a distance not to exceed ten feet. Height limits may be extended only with a use permit, and when granted, the distance by which the structure exceeds the limit must be added to the required side-yard setback; no extension may violate the building code. The code also provides exclusions: public utility poles and communication facilities are generally excluded, federally licensed amateur (ham) radio antennas up to 60 feet from grade are allowed in all districts, and biomass-facility equipment up to 115 feet may be exempt from a use permit. Detached accessory structures have a stricter standard, at no higher than 8 feet at the setback line (Chapter 17.22.040.D.4). Building height is also subject to the building code under Title 15.