Setback Rules: Folsom vs Sacramento
How do setback rules rules compare between Folsom, CA and Sacramento, CA?
Folsom and Sacramento have similar restriction levels.
Folsom, CA
Sacramento County
Folsom residential setbacks are established in FMC Title 17 zoning code. Typical single-family R-1 requires 20-foot front, 5-foot side, and 15-foot rear setbacks. ADUs benefit from reduced 4-foot setbacks per Gov Code §65852.2.
View full Folsom rules →Sacramento, CA
Sacramento County
Sacramento's zoning code (City Code Title 17) establishes minimum setback requirements for all structures based on the zoning district. Standard single-family residential (R-1) setbacks include a 20-foot front yard, 5-foot interior side yards, 10-foot street side yards, and 15-foot rear yards. Setbacks vary by zone and may be modified through zoning variances or specific plan overlays.
View full Sacramento rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Folsom | Sacramento |
|---|---|---|
| Front (R-1) | 20 feet typical | - |
| Side (R-1) | 5 feet interior | - |
| Rear (R-1) | 15 feet typical | - |
| ADU setbacks | 4 ft side/rear (state) | - |
| PUDs | May differ | - |
| Code Section | - | Sacramento City Code Title 17 - Zoning |
| R-1 Front Setback | - | 20 feet from front property line |
| R-1 Side Setback | - | 5 feet interior, 10 feet street side |
| R-1 Rear Setback | - | 15 feet from rear property line |
| ADU Setback | - | 4 feet side and rear (state law) |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Folsom FAQ
What is the setback for an ADU in Folsom?
State law (Gov. Code §65852.2) caps ADU side and rear setbacks at 4 feet. Folsom cannot require more. Front setbacks still follow the underlying zoning.
Who enforces this in Folsom?
Folsom code enforcement at (916) 355-7285 handles most complaints.
Sacramento FAQ
How close to my property line can I build in Sacramento?
In standard R-1 residential zones, you must be 5 feet from interior side property lines, 15 feet from the rear, and 20 feet from the front. ADUs only need 4-foot side and rear setbacks under state law.
Can I get a variance for a smaller setback?
Yes, but you must demonstrate practical difficulties or unnecessary hardship that is unique to your property. Apply for a variance through the City's Zoning Administrator hearing process.
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