Ventura County, CA Building Setbacks & Zoning: Structure Height Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- Principal structure max (OS-REC)
- 25 ft
- Extended max with wide side yards
- 35 ft
- Accessory structure max
- 15 ft
Summary
Unincorporated Ventura County caps principal structures at 25 ft in the Open Space-Recreation zone, extendable to 35 ft with wider side yards.
OS-REC 10 acres ... 25 ft Height may be increased above 25 ft (to maximum 35 ft) if each side yard setback is at least 15 ft or as specified by permit 15 ft, except as noted in Section 8106-7.4
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 51).
Full Breakdown
Section 8106-1.1's development standards table caps the principal structure height at 25 feet in the OS-REC zone, with an exception allowing up to 35 feet if each side yard setback is at least 15 feet or as otherwise specified by permit. Accessory structures in that zone are capped at 15 feet. Other zones on the same table carry different height limits.
Violations & Fines
Exceeding the height cap without qualifying for the side-yard exception or a permit is a zoning violation subject to county enforcement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build higher than 25 feet in OS-REC zoned unincorporated land?
Does this height limit apply inside the city of Ventura?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Ventura County
California rules heatmap·Compare Ventura County to another location·View the California building setbacks & zoning overview
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