Under Ordinance No. 348, most residential zones in unincorporated Riverside County cap principal structures at 35 feet or 2.5 stories. Accessory structures are generally limited to 18 feet. Height is measured from finished grade to the highest point of the roof, with stricter limits near the Mt. Palomar Observatory dark-sky zone.
Ordinance No. 348 sets maximum building heights by zone classification. In R-1, R-2, R-3, R-R, and R-A zones, principal dwellings cannot exceed 35 feet or 2.5 stories, whichever is less. Commercial zones (C-1, C-P, C-R) generally allow 50 feet, while industrial zones permit 50-75 feet depending on sub-zone. Accessory structures such as detached garages, workshops, and sheds are limited to 18 feet or one story in residential zones. Height is measured from the finished grade at the building footprint to the highest ridge point. Chimneys, antennas, and solar arrays may extend above the limit but are regulated separately. In the Mt. Palomar Observatory Dark-Sky Zone (Ordinance 655), height limits interact with exterior lighting restrictions to protect astronomical observations. Hillside Development Standards under Ordinance 348.4728 further reduce height on slopes exceeding 15%. Variances require Planning Commission approval, and CEQA review may be triggered for non-ministerial projects.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact Riverside County code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
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See how Riverside County's structure height limits rules stack up against other locations.
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