Building Setbacks & Zoning in Modesto, CA (2026)
3 verified building setbacks & zoning rules for Modesto, California, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Setback Rules
Modesto's zoning code establishes minimum building setbacks for all zones under MMC Chapter 10-4. Single-family (R-1) and multi-family (R-2/R-3) zones require 15 feet front, 5 feet interior side (one-story), and 10 feet rear for one-story structures.
Residential Setbacks: 15 ft Front, 5 ft Side, 10 ft Rear Minimum
Some RestrictionsStructure Height Limits
Modesto's zoning code caps building height by district: single-family and medium-density residential zones are limited to 2 stories or 30 feet; high-density residential allows 3 stories or 42 feet; commercial height ranges from 35 feet to 90 feet depending on zone and proximity to residential.
Modesto Zoning Maximum Building Height by District
Some RestrictionsLot Coverage Limits
Modesto's Title 10 Zoning Code sets minimum yard setbacks and maximum lot coverage for residential zones. R-1 single-family lots are limited to 50% coverage (55% on corner lots), with front, side, and rear setback minimums based on building height and adjacency.