San Jose establishes maximum building height limits by zoning district under SJMC Title 20. In single-family residential (R-1) zones, the maximum height is generally 35 feet. Multi-family and commercial zones allow greater heights depending on the specific zoning designation and proximity to transit. The City's General Plan envisions taller buildings in Urban Village areas and along transit corridors. Height is measured from the average finished grade to the highest point of the roof.
Height exceptions may be granted for architectural features such as chimneys, flagpoles, and mechanical equipment screens that do not add habitable space. The Residential Design Guidelines influence review of two-story homes in predominantly single-story neighborhoods. Planned Development zoning may establish custom height limits through the development review process. The FAA may impose additional height restrictions near San Jose International Airport.
Construction exceeding height limits without approval results in stop-work orders and may require removal of non-conforming portions. Building permits are not issued for structures exceeding the zoning district's height limit without a variance or exception.
San Jose, CA
San Jose Municipal Code Title 7 (Animal Care and Control) requires dogs in public places, city parks, and trails to be on a leash no longer than six feet, re...
San Jose, CA
San Jose imposes no general restriction on year-round lawn ornaments, statuary, or religious displays on private residential property. The sign code (SJMC Ch...
San Jose, CA
San Jose has no city ordinance specifically regulating residential inflatable holiday displays. Size, height, and motor noise are not restricted by the munic...
San Jose, CA
San Jose has no ordinance limiting the duration, brightness, or hours of residential holiday lighting. The general nuisance provisions in SJMC Title 6 and th...
San Jose, CA
A built-in outdoor kitchen in San Jose typically requires multiple permits: a building permit for any structural roof or counter exceeding the patio cover ex...
San Jose, CA
San Jose does not have a dedicated ordinance for backyard smokers, pellet grills, or wood-fired ovens. Use is governed by the multifamily balcony restriction...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Santa Clara County.
See how other cities in Santa Clara County handle structure height limits.
See how San Jose's structure height limits rules stack up against other locations.
Quick Compare
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.