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.
Driveways in Sunnyvale must conform to SMC Title 19 zoning standards, including maximum width, surfacing, and setbacks from property lines. Replacing or widening a driveway apron requires an encroachment permit from Public Works because the apron crosses the public right-of-way. Paved surfaces must generally cover no more than 50 percent of the required front yard area for single-family lots, and unpaved parking on lawns is prohibited. Vehicles parked in a driveway cannot overhang the sidewalk in a way that blocks pedestrian passage; enforcement under SMC Title 10 and CVC 22500(f) can lead to a citation. Shared driveways on flag lots or easements are subject to recorded agreements.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
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