Lot Coverage Limits: Castro Valley vs Livermore
How do lot coverage limits rules compare between Castro Valley, CA and Livermore, CA?
Castro Valley and Livermore have similar restriction levels.
Castro Valley, CA
Alameda County
Unincorporated Alameda County limits maximum lot coverage to 35-45 percent in residential zones under Title 17. Coverage includes all structures with roofs, with some exemptions for uncovered decks and pervious surfaces.
View full Castro Valley 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 | Castro Valley | Livermore |
|---|---|---|
| Typical R-1 coverage | 40 percent maximum | - |
| Hillside zones | Often 35 percent | - |
| Uncovered decks | Under 30 inches exempt | - |
| ADU exception | 800 sf exempt per state law | - |
| FAR overlay | Applies in hillside districts | - |
| RL Coverage | - | ~40% main structure |
| RS Coverage | - | 45-50% |
| FAR | - | 0.45-0.55 |
| ADU Exempt | - | 800 sq ft state law |
| Code | - | LMC Title 21 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Castro Valley FAQ
Does my driveway count toward lot coverage?
No. Driveways and paved walkways are not structures. However, some zones have separate impervious surface limits that include paving.
How do I find my coverage limit?
Check your zoning designation on the Alameda County Planning parcel map, then reference Title 17 for that specific zone.
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.
Compare other topics
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