Setback Rules: Berkeley vs San Leandro
How do setback rules rules compare between Berkeley, CA and San Leandro, CA?
San Leandro has fewer restrictions than Berkeley.
Berkeley, CA
Alameda County
Berkeley residential setbacks require 20-foot front, 4-foot side, and 15-foot rear yards in R-1 zones under Title 23 Zoning Ordinance, with ADU exceptions under SB 9 and state ADU law.
View full Berkeley rules →San Leandro, CA
Alameda County
San Leandro residential setbacks: 20 ft front, 5 ft side, 15 ft rear in RS zones. ADU setbacks reduced to 4 ft per Gov Code 65852.2.
View full San Leandro rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Berkeley | San Leandro |
|---|---|---|
| R-1 front | 20 feet typical | - |
| R-1 side | 4 feet interior | - |
| R-1 rear | 15 feet typical | - |
| ADU setback | 4 ft (state law) | 4 ft - Gov Code 65852.2 |
| Code | Title 23 Zoning | - |
| RS front | - | 20 ft |
| RS side | - | 5 ft |
| RS rear | - | 15 ft |
| Corner side | - | 10 ft typical |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Berkeley FAQ
Can I build closer than required setbacks?
Only with a variance approved by the Zoning Adjustments Board based on hardship findings, or under state ADU and SB 9 exceptions.
Do setbacks apply to fences?
Generally no, though fences over 6 feet in yards require permits and may have setback rules.
San Leandro FAQ
Can my shed sit on the property line?
No. Most sheds still need 3-5 ft side/rear setback unless they qualify as ADU/JADU.
Can I get a variance?
Yes, through Planning, but requires findings of hardship.
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