Lot Coverage Limits: Berkeley vs Livermore
How do lot coverage limits rules compare between Berkeley, CA and Livermore, CA?
Livermore has fewer restrictions than Berkeley.
Berkeley, CA
Alameda County
Berkeley R-1 zones limit main building lot coverage to 40 percent and total structure coverage to 50 percent, with ADUs and SB 9 units subject to state-law overrides.
View full Berkeley rules →Livermore, CA
Alameda County
Livermore caps residential lot coverage typically at 40-50% for main structures; impervious surface and FAR limits also apply under LMC Title 21.
View full Livermore rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Berkeley | Livermore |
|---|---|---|
| R-1 main building | 40% max coverage | - |
| R-1 total | 50% max coverage | - |
| Typical FAR | 0.4 to 0.6 | - |
| ADU override | 800 sq ft minimum | - |
| Code | Title 23 | LMC Title 21 |
| RL Coverage | - | ~40% main structure |
| RS Coverage | - | 45-50% |
| FAR | - | 0.45-0.55 |
| ADU Exempt | - | 800 sq ft state law |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Berkeley FAQ
Does a detached garage count toward coverage?
Yes, all roofed structures count, though ADU state law exempts one 800 sq ft unit from local coverage caps.
Are patios counted?
Unroofed patios generally do not count for lot coverage but may count for impervious surface stormwater limits.
Livermore FAQ
Does my shed count toward lot coverage?
Yes, detached structures over 120 sq ft count toward lot coverage and FAR calculations.
Does my 700 sq ft ADU count?
No — state law exempts ADUs up to 800 sq ft from lot coverage and FAR caps.
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