Structure Height Limits: Ojai vs Santa Paula
How do structure height limits rules compare between Ojai, CA and Santa Paula, CA?
Ojai and Santa Paula have similar restriction levels.
Ojai, CA
Ventura County
Ojai limits residential building height to 25-30 feet depending on the zoning district. The height limit preserves mountain views and the valley's low-profile character. Chimneys and antennas may exceed the limit by up to 10 feet.
View full Ojai rules →Santa Paula, CA
Ventura County
Building height limits in unincorporated Ventura County are set by zoning district under §8106-1. Height is measured per §8106-1.3. Accessory structures are limited to heights specified in §8106-7.4. Exceptions exist for roof structures, antennas, and wireless facilities.
View full Santa Paula rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Ojai | Santa Paula |
|---|---|---|
| Residential Height | 25-30 feet (varies by zone) | - |
| Measurement | Average natural grade to roof | - |
| Exceptions | Chimneys, antennas (+10 feet) | §8106-7 (roof, antennas, etc.) |
| View Protection | Topatopa Mountain views preserved | - |
| Measurement (Flat) | - | §8106-1.3.1 |
| Measurement (Slope) | - | §8106-1.3.2 |
| Variance | - | Planning Commission |
| Code Section | - | §8106-1.3, §8106-7 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Ojai FAQ
How tall can I build in Ojai?
Typically 25-30 feet depending on your zoning district. Height is measured from the average natural grade to the highest roof point.
Can I build a three-story house?
It depends on the height. If your design stays within the 25-30 foot limit, multiple stories are possible. Most Ojai homes are one or two stories.
Do solar panels count toward height?
Rooftop solar panels within 4 feet of the roof surface generally do not count toward the height limit.
Santa Paula FAQ
How tall can I build in Ventura County?
Height limits vary by zone under §8106-1. Check your zone's specific limit with Planning at (805) 654-2488 or on the county GIS portal.
How is height measured?
On flat grades per §8106-1.3.1; on slopes per §8106-1.3.2. Generally from grade to the highest point of the roof.
Can I get a height exception?
Exceptions exist for roof structures, antennas, and other elements under §8106-7. A variance from the Planning Commission is needed for other exceptions.
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