Structure Height Limits: Carmichael vs Elk Grove
How do structure height limits rules compare between Carmichael, CA and Elk Grove, CA?
Carmichael and Elk Grove have similar restriction levels.
Carmichael, CA
Sacramento County
Sacramento County residential height limits: typically 30-35 feet in single-family zones, 45 feet in some multi-family zones. Agricultural zones allow taller structures (up to 50 ft for barns). ADUs limited to 16-25 feet depending on type per state law. Height measured from finished grade to highest point excluding chimneys and antennas.
View full Carmichael rules →Elk Grove, CA
Sacramento County
Elk Grove limits most single-family structures to 35 feet or two stories under Title 23. Accessory structures are typically capped at 15 feet, and detached ADUs get up to 16-18 feet of height under Gov Code §65852.2.
View full Elk Grove rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Carmichael | Elk Grove |
|---|---|---|
| SFR | 30-35 ft typical | - |
| Multi-family | Up to 45 ft | - |
| Ag Barns | Up to 50 ft | - |
| ADU | 16-25 ft (state law) | - |
| Airports | FAA Part 77 zones apply | - |
| House max (typical) | - | 35 ft |
| Stories | - | Up to 2 in most SFR zones |
| Accessory | - | ~15 ft |
| Detached ADU | - | 16 ft (18 ft near transit) |
| Exemptions | - | Chimneys / antennas |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Carmichael FAQ
How tall can my house be?
In most suburban single-family zones, 30-35 feet measured from finished grade to roof peak.
Can I build a two-story ADU?
Yes. A two-story detached ADU up to 18 ft is allowed on transit-proximate or multi-family lots; attached ADUs on two-story primary dwellings can reach 25 ft.
Elk Grove FAQ
Can I add a third story to my single-family home?
Usually no in standard RD zones — the 35 ft/2-story limit applies. A rezoning or variance would be needed.
How tall can my detached ADU be?
At least 16 ft by state law, or 18 ft if the lot is near major transit or has a multi-story primary dwelling.
Compare other topics
See how Carmichael and Elk Grove compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool