Structure Height Limits: Monterey vs Salinas
How do structure height limits rules compare between Monterey, CA and Salinas, CA?
Monterey and Salinas have similar restriction levels.
Monterey, CA
Monterey County
Maximum building height in unincorporated Monterey County is set by zoning district in Title 21. Residential main structures are generally capped at 30 ft (LDR/MDR/RDR) or 35 ft (HDR), with accessory structures usually 15 ft. Chapter 21.62 allows chimneys, towers and similar features to exceed the limit.
View full Monterey rules →Salinas, CA
Monterey County
Salinas zoning code sets maximum building heights by district. Residential zones typically limit structures to 35 feet or 2 to 3 stories.
View full Salinas rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Monterey | Salinas |
|---|---|---|
| LDR/MDR Main | 30 ft max (21.14.060 / 21.12.060) | - |
| RDR Main | 30 ft max (21.16.060) | - |
| HDR Main | 35 ft max (21.10.060) | - |
| Accessory Structures | 15 ft max (typical) | - |
| Exceedances (21.62) | Chimneys, towers, water tanks may exceed | - |
| Residential | - | 35 feet / 2.5 stories typical |
| Measured From | - | Average finished grade |
| Exceptions | - | Chimneys, antennas limited |
| Topic | - | Structure Height Limits |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Monterey FAQ
How tall can a building be in unincorporated Monterey County?
By district under Title 21: LDR, MDR and RDR main structures are capped at 30 ft (21.14.060 / 21.12.060 / 21.16.060), while HDR allows up to 35 ft (21.10.060). Accessory structures are typically limited to 15 ft. A height shown on the zoning map can override the default.
Can anything exceed the height limit?
Yes. Chapter 21.62 lets chimneys, vents and mechanical appurtenances, plus towers, poles and water tanks, exceed the district limit (the latter often by permit). An accessory structure attached to the main building may match the main structure's height.
Salinas FAQ
What is the max height for a house?
Typically 35 feet or 2.5 stories in residential zones. Check Salinas zoning code for your specific district.
Do chimneys count toward height?
Chimneys and similar projections are usually exempt up to a limited additional height above the roof.
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