Zoning Overlays & Bonuses in Sunnyvale, CA (2026)
2 verified zoning overlays & bonuses rules for Sunnyvale, California, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Density Bonus Law
Sunnyvale grants density bonuses above a residential zone's maximum allowable density under Municipal Code Section 19.18.025, tied directly to State Density Bonus Law (Government Code Sections 65915 through 65918). Developers must file the bonus request with their discretionary permit application, and the Director of Community Development sets the submittal requirements.
Density Bonus Rules in Sunnyvale
Some RestrictionsSunnyvale, CA Municipal Code § 19.18.025 (Density bonus)
A density bonus above the maximum allowable density of a residential zoning district may be granted under California Government Code Sections 65915 through 65918 and through other development incentives adopted by the city council. An application for a density bonus and any associated incentives, concessions, waivers of development standards, or modified parking ratios shall be submitted with t...
Downtown Design Guide
Development in Sunnyvale's Downtown Specific Plan district must follow the DSP document's architectural and design guidelines plus block-by-block setback and open space standards, and the DSP controls if it conflicts with the general zoning code.
Downtown Sunnyvale Design Standards
Significant RestrictionsSunnyvale, CA, Municipal Code § 19.28.030 (Compliance with the Downtown Specific Plan); § 19.28.040(b); Table 19.28.090(a) (Block Development Criteria)
The DSP is incorporated by this reference. The specific plan includes architectural and downtown design guidelines, site development standards and planned public parks and other facilities which will be implemented through zoning and subdivision regulations, development standards, design guidelines, public and private improvements and an economic development strategy. All planning related activ...
Looking for Santa Clara County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Sunnyvale city rules.
Zoning Overlays & Bonuses in Santa Clara County →