Building Setbacks & Zoning in San Mateo, CA (2026)
3 verified building setbacks & zoning rules for San Mateo, California, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Setback Rules
San Mateo establishes minimum residential setbacks by zone district in Title 27, Chapter 27.22 and the building line/setback standards in Section 27.38.100. Single-family zones require front setbacks of 20-25 feet, side yards of 5-10 feet, and rear yards of 20 feet or 20% of lot depth.
San Mateo Residential Setback Standards
Some RestrictionsStructure Height Limits
San Mateo limits residential building height through Title 27. Single-family zones generally allow 28-35 feet depending on zone. The city applies a daylight plane standard that further limits height near property lines. ADU-specific height limits are 16 feet (detached) to 32 feet (attached) to roof peak.
San Mateo Residential Height Limits
Some RestrictionsLot Coverage Limits
San Mateo regulates lot coverage through Title 27 of the zoning code. Maximum lot coverage and floor area ratio vary by zone district. ADUs of at least 800 square feet with 16-foot height and 4-foot setbacks may be built regardless of lot coverage, FAR, or open space limitations per state law.
San Mateo Lot Coverage Standards
Some RestrictionsLooking for San Mateo County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement San Mateo city rules.
Building Setbacks & Zoning in San Mateo County →