Skip to main content
CityRuleLookup
πŸ“ Building Setbacks & Zoning/Structure Height Limits

Structure Height Limits: Fremont vs Livermore

How do structure height limits rules compare between Fremont, CA and Livermore, CA?

Livermore has fewer restrictions than Fremont.

Fremont, CA

Alameda County

Heavy Restrictions

Fremont limits single-family homes to 30 feet or 2 stories in most R-1 zones, with hillside overlay districts imposing stricter limits to protect ridgelines.

View full Fremont rules β†’

Livermore, CA

Alameda County

Some Restrictions

Livermore residential height limits are typically 30 ft / 2 stories in RL and RS zones; detached ADUs allowed up to 16-25 ft per state law.

View full Livermore rules β†’

Key Facts Comparison

FactFremontLivermore
R-1 Height30 feet / 2 stories-
Accessory15 feet-
ADU Height25 feet (state law)-
HillsideStricter overlay limitsRidgeline protection
Contact(510) 494-4455-
RL/RS Max-30 ft / 2 stories
RM Max-35 ft
Detached ADU-16-25 ft state law
Features-+3-5 ft with screening

Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.

Fremont FAQ

Can I build a three-story home?

Not in standard R-1 zones; multi-family or specific plan areas may allow 3 stories with design review.

Do hillside rules apply to my lot?

Check the Fremont Hillside Combining District map; lots in the overlay have ridgeline and height protections.

Livermore FAQ

Can I build a 3-story house?

Not in most Livermore residential zones β€” 2 stories / 30 ft is the typical cap. Variances are rarely granted.

How tall can my ADU be?

Detached single-story ADU up to 16 ft; up to 18-25 ft if within half-mile of transit or on multifamily lot.

Compare other topics

See how Fremont and Livermore 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