Structure Height Limits: Oxnard vs Ventura
How do structure height limits rules compare between Oxnard, CA and Ventura, CA?
Oxnard and Ventura have similar restriction levels.
Oxnard, CA
Ventura County
Oxnard's zoning code limits building height by zoning district. Single-family residential zones typically allow 30 to 35 feet. Height limits in the coastal zone may be more restrictive to protect ocean views and neighborhood character.
View full Oxnard rules →Ventura, 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 Ventura rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Oxnard | Ventura |
|---|---|---|
| R-1 Residential | 30–35 feet / 2 stories max | - |
| Coastal Zone | May be more restrictive | - |
| ADU Height | 16 feet for detached single-story | - |
| Measurement | Average grade to highest point | - |
| Measurement (Flat) | - | §8106-1.3.1 |
| Measurement (Slope) | - | §8106-1.3.2 |
| Exceptions | - | §8106-7 (roof, antennas, etc.) |
| Variance | - | Planning Commission |
| Code Section | - | §8106-1.3, §8106-7 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Oxnard FAQ
How tall can I build in Oxnard?
Standard single-family zones allow 30-35 feet or two stories. Height limits vary by zone and may be more restrictive in the coastal area. Check with Community Development for your specific property.
Are there special height limits near the coast in Oxnard?
Yes. Properties in the coastal zone may have additional height restrictions under Oxnard's Local Coastal Program to protect public views and coastal character.
How tall can an ADU be in Oxnard?
Detached single-story ADUs are limited to 16 feet. Two-story ADUs may be allowed up to greater heights under recent California ADU law updates depending on location.
Ventura 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.
Compare other topics
See how Oxnard and Ventura 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