Driveway Rules: Santa Clara vs Sunnyvale
How do driveway rules rules compare between Santa Clara, CA and Sunnyvale, CA?
Santa Clara and Sunnyvale have similar restriction levels.
Santa Clara, CA
Santa Clara County
Santa Clara requires encroachment permits for new driveways, limits driveway width by zoning, and prohibits parking across sidewalks regardless of property ownership.
View full Santa Clara rules →Sunnyvale, CA
Santa Clara County
Sunnyvale driveway construction and use are governed by SMC Title 19 zoning and Title 16 encroachment rules. Blocking sidewalks or the public right-of-way is prohibited.
View full Sunnyvale rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Santa Clara | Sunnyvale |
|---|---|---|
| Curb Cut Permit | Public Works encroachment permit required | - |
| Max Width | Typically 20 feet for single-family residential | - |
| Sidewalk Parking | Prohibited per CVC 22500(f) | - |
| Front Yard Paving | Limited by zoning coverage rules | - |
| Contact | Public Works (408) 615-3000 | - |
| Apron permit | - | Encroachment permit required |
| Front yard paving | - | Max 50% under Title 19 |
| Lawn parking | - | Prohibited |
| Sidewalk overhang | - | Cited under CVC 22500(f) |
| Permit center | - | (408) 730-7444 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Santa Clara FAQ
Can I widen my driveway to fit three cars?
Only with planning approval; widths beyond the zoning maximum typically require a variance or design review.
Is it legal to park blocking part of the sidewalk?
No, any vehicle overhanging the sidewalk violates CVC 22500(f) and can be ticketed.
Sunnyvale FAQ
Can I widen my driveway?
Yes, but you need a Planning review under Title 19 and an encroachment permit from Public Works for the apron.
Is it legal to park on my front lawn?
No. Sunnyvale requires parking on an approved paved surface in the front yard.
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