Structure Height Limits: Costa Mesa vs Orange
How do structure height limits rules compare between Costa Mesa, CA and Orange, CA?
Costa Mesa and Orange have similar restriction levels.
Costa Mesa, CA
Orange County
Costa Mesa limits residential building height to 35 feet in the R1 single-family zone and most residential districts. Two-story construction is the practical maximum in single-family zones. Accessory dwelling units may not exceed 16 feet for detached one-story units or 27 feet and two stories for attached or multi-story units. Height is measured from the finished grade to the highest point of the roof.
View full Costa Mesa rules →Orange, CA
Orange County
The City of Orange regulates maximum building heights under OMC Title 17 (Zoning). Residential zones generally limit structures to 35 feet or two stories, with ADUs limited to 16 feet. The Old Towne Historic District may impose additional height restrictions.
View full Orange rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Costa Mesa | Orange |
|---|---|---|
| R1 Maximum Height | 35 feet | - |
| Accessory Structures | 15 feet maximum | - |
| Detached ADU | 16 feet (one story) or 27 feet (two story) | - |
| Measurement | From finished grade to highest roof point | - |
| Residential Max | - | 35 feet / 2 stories typical |
| ADU Max Height | - | 16 feet |
| Historic District | - | Additional design review |
| Code Reference | - | OMC Title 17 Zoning |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Costa Mesa FAQ
How tall can I build a house in Costa Mesa?
In the R1 single-family zone, the maximum building height is 35 feet measured from finished grade to the highest point of the roof. This typically accommodates two-story construction with a standard roof pitch.
Is there a height limit for detached garages or sheds?
Yes. Accessory structures not used as living space are limited to 15 feet in height. Detached ADUs have separate height limits of 16 feet for single-story or 27 feet for two-story units under California ADU law.
How is building height measured on a sloped lot?
On sloped lots, height is measured from the average of the highest and lowest finished grade elevations along the building perimeter to the highest point of the roof. Contact the Planning Division at (714) 754-5245 for help calculating allowable height on your specific property.
Orange FAQ
How tall can I build in Orange?
Most single-family residential zones allow up to 35 feet or two stories. ADUs are limited to 16 feet. Check your specific zone in OMC Title 17.
Are there extra height rules in Old Towne Orange?
Yes. Properties in the Old Towne Historic District are subject to design review that may further limit height to preserve historic neighborhood character.
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