Article 6 — Lot Area and Coverage, Setbacks, Height and Related Provisions

VenturaCounty Municipal Code · 2026-09 edition · updated 2026-09-27 · VenturaCounty

8106-0 - Purpose.

The purpose of this Article is to set forth specific development standards which are applicable to the zones specified, and to delineate certain instances where exceptions to the requirements are allowed. Section 8106-1 lists in matrix form specific development standards applicable to specific zones.

(Ord. No. 4618, § 3, 7-25-2023)

8106-1 - Schedules of specific development standards by zone and exceptions thereto.

The following tables indicate the lot area, setback, height and building lot coverage standards which apply to individual legal lots in the zones specified.

(Am. Ord. 3730—5/7/85; Am. Ord. 3759—1/14/86; Am. Ord. 3995—3/24/92; Am. Ord. 4054—2/1/94; Ord. No. 4455, § 4, 10-22-2013; Ord. No. 4479, § 5, 9-22-2015; Ord. No. 4618, § 3, 7-25-2023)

8106-1.1 - Development standards for uses and structures in open space, agricultural exclusive, and residential zones. Zone Minimum Maximum Required Minimum Setbacks 2 Maximum Structure Height 3 Lot Area 1 Percentage of Building Front Side Rear Principal Exceptions (Principal Accessory Coverage Structure Structure) Structure Interior and Reverse Corner Lots, Corner Lots: Except Street Side

Reverse Corner

OS-REC 10 acres

OS 10 acres 10 ft 20 ft

AE 40 acres 20 ft Height may be increased RA 1 acre above 25 ft (to maximum 15 ft, except as 15 ft 25 ft 35 ft) if each side yard noted in Section RE 10,000 sq. ft. See Section setback is at least 15 ft or 8106-7.4 8106-1.4. as specified by permit RO 20,000 sq. ft. Building lot 5 ft 10 ft coverage R1 6,000 sq. ft. depends on lot 20 ft 5 R2 7,000 sq. ft. 4 location.

                                                   From adjacent
                                                                                                    Interior Side Yard                   Rear Lot Line

RHD 0.80 acre 6 street 35 ft 35 ft

                                                     10 ft            5 ft                             10 ft

RPD As specified by permit 7 See Section 8109-1.2.2 35 ft As specified by permit

RES As specified in the Old Town Saticoy Development Code (Article 19) R/MU

1. Minimum lot area shall be determined by lot area suffix pursuant to Section 8103-1, which in some cases may be greater than the minimum lot area specified in Section 8106-1.1. For additional lot area exceptions see Section 8103-2.

2. Exceptions to required minimum setback requirements can be found in Sections 8106-5, 8106-6, 8107-1.7 and 8107-20. For minimum setbacks for flag and irregularly shaped lots see Section 8106-4.3.

3. Exceptions to height limits see Sections 8106-5, 8106-8 and 8107-1.7.

4. Minimum lot area per dwelling unit: 3,500 square feet.

5. Exceptions for "swing driveways" see Section 8106-5.11.

6. Section 65583.2(h) of the California Planning and Zoning Laws prescribes a minimum sixteen (16) units per site.

7. Minimum density of one (1) dwelling unit per acre; maximum density of thirty (30) dwelling units per acre.

(Add Ord. 3730—5/7/85; Am. Ord. 4054—2/1/94; Am. Ord. 4092—6/27/95; Am. Ord. 4216—10/24/00; Ord. No. 4436, § 5, 6-28-2011; Ord. No. 4479, § 5, 9-22-2015; Ord. No. 4618, § 3, 7-25-2023; Ord. No. 4625, § 4, 1-9-2024; Ord. No. 4639, § 5, 12-17-2024)

8106-1.2 - Development standards for uses and structures in commercial, industrial and special purpose zones.

                        Maximum Percentage   Required Minimum Setbacks (1)              Maximum Structure Height

Zone Minimum Lot Area of Building Lot Principal Exceptions Accessory Coverage From Street Each Interior Yard Structure (Principal Structure) Structure (3)

Principal Exceptions Accessory Coverage From Street Each Interior Yard Structure (Principal Structure) Structure (3)

                                                                          10 ft on any side yard
                                                                    Front: 20 ft

CO that is adjacent to an R- Regardless of Decision Making Side: 5 ft Zone 25 ft Authority as specified in Section No requirement 8105, exceeding the height limits, to C1 5 ft if adjacent to an R- 5 ft. on corner lots; zone; otherwise as 60 ft maximum, requires Planning CPD See Section 8106-1.4. otherwise as specified specified by permit 35 ft Commission approval Building lot coverage by permit As specified by permit TP 160 acres 2 depends on lot As specified by permit 25 ft location. M1 20 ft 3 Height may be increased to 60 ft with 5 ft if adjacent to an R- 30 ft Decision M2 Making Authority approval zone; otherwise as 10,000 sq. ft. 15 ft 3 specified by permit 3 Maximum height of 60 ft when M3 10 ft 3 As specified by permit located within 100 ft of an R-zone

Maximum height of 60 ft when M3 10 ft 3 As specified by permit located within 100 ft of an R-zone

TC As specified in the Old Town Saticoy Development Code (Article 19) IND

SP As established by Specific Plan (See Sec. 8109-4.2)

1. Exceptions to required minimum setback requirements can be found in Sections 8106-5 and 8106-6. For minimum setbacks for flag and irregularly shaped lots see Section 8106-4.3.

2. See Section 8109-4.3.6.

3. A 30-foot setback, in conjunction with appropriate opaque screening, may be required (1) when the industrial site is adjacent to or across the street from an R-zone; (2) to maintain uniformity with existing adjacent development; or (3) on the basis of the configuration of the industrial site.

(Add Ord. 3730—5/7/85; Am. Ord. 4018—12/15/92; Ord. No. 4479, § 5, 9-22-2015; Ord. No. 4618, § 3, 7-25-2023)

8106-1.3 - Measurement of building heights.

The heights of buildings and structures shall be measured in accordance with the following subsections and as illustrated in Figure 1 that follows.

8106-1.3.1 - Building heights on flat grades.

The height of any building located on a flat grade is the vertical distance from the grade to the highest point of the roof; this includes A-frame buildings, Quonset huts, geodesic domes and other such buildings that have the roof and walls forming a continuous architectural unit. In the case of a pitched roof, height is measured to the "averaged midpoint" of the roof. This "averaged midpoint" is arrived at by identifying two points ("midpoints") along the roof which are midway between the peak of the highest finished main ridge line(s) and the intersection of the outermost portion of the roof with the upward extensions of the two exterior finished walls running parallel to the main ridge line(s), measuring the distance from these two points to the grade, adding together the two vertical heights from grade to the midpoints, and dividing the result by two.

(Add Ord. 4092—6/27/95; Am. Ord. 4123—9/17/96)

8106-1.3.2 - Building heights on sloping grades.

The height of any building located on a sloping grade is the vertical distance from the "averaged grade," which is arrived at by finding the midpoint of the lowest and highest grade at each building elevation (meaning side view or face of the structure), to the highest point of the roof or (in the case of a pitched roof) to the "averaged midpoint," as described in Section 8106-1.3.1 of this Chapter and illustrated in Figure 1 (Section 81061.3). These sums are then divided by the number of elevations. If the site has compound grades, height should be measured at each building face.

(Add Ord. 4092—6/27/95; Am. Ord. 4123—9/17/96; Ord. No. 4618, § 3, 7-25-2023)

Figure 1 (Section 8106-1.3)

(Ord. No. 4618, § 3, 7-25-2023)

8106-1.4 - Building lot coverage.

Purpose: The purpose of this Section 8106-1.4 et seq. is to provide the maximum percentage of building lot coverage for: (1) lots subject to an area plan; (2) lots within a mapped existing community designated area boundary and not subject to an area plan; (3) lots outside of a mapped existing community designated area boundary and not subject to an area plan; and (4) lots that meet certain exceptions and exclusions.

Definitions: Definitions for all italicized terms in this Section 8106-1.4 et seq. are set forth in Article 2 of this Chapter. For terms not defined, refer to Section 8102-0(c).

(Ord. No. 4618, § 3, 7-25-2023; Ord. No. 4639, § 5, 12-17-2024)

8106-1.4.1 - Maximum percentage of building lot coverage standards. 8106-1.4.1.1 - Maximum percentage of building lot coverage for lots subject to an area plan.

The maximum percentage of building lot coverage for lots subject to an area plan shall be as specified below in subsections 8106-

1.4.1.1.1 to 8106-1.4.1.1.8.¶

If any provision of this Section 8106-1.4.1.1 conflicts with the applicable area plan standards, the latter

shall govern.

(Ord. No. 4618, § 3, 7-25-2023)

8106-1.4.1.1.1 - El Rio/Del Norte Area Plan.

Table 1 (Sec. 8106-1.4.1.1.1) El Rio/Del Norte Area Plan Maximum Percentage of Building Lot Coverage

Area Plan Land Use Designation Maximum Building Lot Coverage (Percent)

OS 80 (Open Space 80 ac min) 5

OS 40 (Open Space 40 ac min) 5

AG (Agriculture 40 ac min) 5

RR 5 (Rural Residential 5 ac min) 25

UR 1-2 (Urban Residential 1-2 du/ac) 28

UR 2-4 (Urban Residential 2-4 du/ac) 35

UR 4-6 (Urban Residential 4-6 du/ac) 45

UR 6-10 (Urban Residential 6-10 du/ac) 50

UR 10-15 (Urban Residential 10-15 du/ac) 60

UR 20 (Urban Residential 20 du/ac) 60

COM (Commercial) 60

IND (Industrial) 50

INST (Institutional) 60

Notes: Exceptions and exclusions may apply, refer to Section 8106-1.4.1.1.1a and 8106-1.4.2. ac - Acre; du - Dwelling Unit; min - Minimum

(Ord. No. 4618, § 3, 7-25-2023)

8106-1.4.1.1.la - El Rio/Del Norte Area Plan building lot coverage exceptions and exclusions.

(1)

The following exceptions and exclusions apply to the OS 80, OS 40 and AG Area Plan Land Use Designations:

(a)

Structures used for growing plants such as greenhouses, hothouses, and agricultural shade/mist structures are excluded from building lot coverage standards. This exclusion does not include structures used for preliminary packing, storage and preservation of produce and similar structures.

(b)

Maximum building lot coverage of lots less than ten (10) acres (nonconforming) in area shall be two thousand five hundred (2,500) square feet plus one (1) square foot for each 22.334 square feet of lot area over five thousand (5,000) square feet.

(c)

Greater building lot coverage may be allowed with the approval of a discretionary permit for structures and uses listed under the heading of "Crop and Orchard Production" in Article 5.

(d)

Greater building lot coverage may be allowed with the approval of a discretionary permit for Farmworker Housing Complexes.

(2)

The following exception applies to the RR 5, UR1-2, UR2-4, UR-4-6, UR 6-10, UR 10-15, and UR 20 Area Plan Land Use Designations:

(a)

Maximum building lot coverage for lots of less than one (1) acre (nonconforming) in area shall be as specified in Section 8106- 1.4.1.1.1, or two thousand five hundred (2,500) square feet plus one (1) square foot for each 4.596 square feet of lot area over five thousand (5,000) square feet, whichever is greater.

(Ord. No. 4618, § 3, 7-25-2023)

8106-1.4.1.1.2 - Lake Sherwood/Hidden Valley Area Plan.

Table 2 (Sec. 8106-1.4.1.1.2) Lake Sherwood/Hidden Valley Area Plan Maximum Percentage of Building Lot Coverage

Area Plan Land Use Designation Maximum Building Lot Coverage (Percent)

Lake Not Applicable

Parks and Recreation 5

OS 80 (Open Space 80 ac min) 5

OS 40 (Open Space 40 ac min) 5

OS 20 (Open Space 20-40 ac min) 5

OS 10 (Open Space 10-20 ac min) 5

RR 5 (Rural Residential 5-10 ac) 25

RR 2 (Rural Residential 2-5 ac) 25

UR 1 (Urban Residential 1 du/ac) 25

UR 1-2 (Urban Residential 1-2 du/ac) 28

UR 2-4 (Urban Residential 2-4 du/ac) 35

Notes: Exceptions and exclusions may apply, refer to Section 8106-1.4.1.1.2a and 8106-1.4.2. ac - Acre; du - Dwelling Unit; min - Minimum

(Ord. No. 4618, § 3, 7-25-2023)

8106-1.4.1.1.2a - Lake Sherwood/Hidden Valley Area Plan building lot coverage exceptions and exclusions.

(1)

The following exceptions and exclusions apply to the Lake, Parks & Rec., OS 80, OS 40, OS 20, and OS 10 Area Plan Land Use Designations:

(a)

(b)

(c)

Greater building lot coverage may be allowed with the approval of a discretionary permit for structures and uses listed under the heading of "Crop and Orchard Production" in Article 5.

(d)

Greater building lot coverage may be allowed with the approval of a discretionary permit for Farmworker Housing Complexes.

(2)

The following exception applies to the RR 5, RR 2, UR 1, UR 1-2 and UR 2-4 Area Plan Land Use Designations:

(a)

Maximum building lot coverage for lots of less than one (1) acre (nonconforming) in area shall be as specified in Section 8106- 1.4.1.1.2, or two thousand five hundred (2,500) square feet plus one (1) square foot for each 4.596 square feet of lot area over five thousand (5,000) square feet, whichever is greater.

(Ord. No. 4618, § 3, 7-25-2023)

8106-1.4.1.1.3 - North Ventura Avenue Area Plan.

Table 3 (Sec. 8106-1.4.1.1.3) North Ventura Avenue Area Plan Maximum Percentage of Building Lot Coverage

Area Plan Land Use Designation Maximum Building Lot Coverage (Percent)

Residential, Single Family 44

Residential, Multiple-Family 55

Commercial 60

Industrial 40

Oil Field Industrial 20

Notes: Exceptions and exclusions may apply, refer to Section 8106-1.4.2. ac - Acre; du - Dwelling Unit; min - Minimum

(Ord. No. 4618, § 3, 7-25-2023)

8106-1.4.1.1.4 - Oak Park Area Plan.

Table 4 (Sec. 8106-1.4.1.1.4) Oak Park Area Plan Maximum Percentage of Building Lot Coverage

Area Plan Land Use Designation Maximum Building Lot Coverage (Percent)

POS (Public Open Space) 5

R/1-2 (Residential 1-2 du/ac) 28

R/2-4 (Residential 2-4 du/ac) 35

R/4-6 (Residential 4-6 du/ac) 41

R/6-8 (Residential 6-8 du/ac) 48

R/8-12 (Residential 8-12 du/ac) 50

R/16-20 (Residential 16-20 du/ac) 60

C (Commercial) 60

CF (Community Facility) 60

Notes: Exceptions and exclusions may apply, refer to Section 8106-1.4.1.1.4a and 8106-1.4.2. ac - Acre; du - Dwelling Unit; min - Minimum

(Ord. No. 4618, § 3, 7-25-2023)

8106-1.4.1.1.4a - Oak Park Area Plan building lot coverage exclusion.

The following exclusion applies to the POS, R/1-2, R/2-4, R/4-6, R/6-8, R/8-12 and R/16-20 Area Plan Land Use Designations:

(a)

(Ord. No. 4618, § 3, 7-25-2023)

8106-1.4.1.1.5 - Ojai Valley Area Plan.

Table 5 (Sec. 8106-1.4.1.1.5) Ojai Valley Area Plan Maximum Percentage of Building Lot Coverage

Area Plan Land Use Designation Maximum Building Lot Coverage (Percent)

OS 80 (Open Space 80 ac min) 5

OS 40 (Open Space 40 ac min) 5

OS 20 (Open Space 20 ac min) 5

OS 10 (Open Space 10 ac min) 5

RI (Rural Institutional 20 ac min) 25

RR5 (Rural Residential 5-10 ac min) 25

RR 2 (Rural Residential 2-5 ac min) 25

UR 1-2 (Urban Residential 1-2 du/ac) 28

UR 2-4 (Urban Residential 2-4 du/ac) 35

UR 4-6 (Urban Residential 4-6 du/ac) 45

UR 6-10 (Urban Residential 6-10 du/ac) 50

UR 10-20 (Urban Residential 10-20 du/ac) 60

C (Commercial) 60

I (Industrial) 50

Notes: Exceptions and exclusions may apply, refer to Section 8106-1.4.1.1.5a and 8106-1.4.2. ac - Acre; du - Dwelling Unit; min - Minimum

(Ord. No. 4618, § 3, 7-25-2023)

8106-1.4.1.1.5a - Ojai Valley Area Plan building lot coverage exceptions and exclusions.

(1)

The following exceptions and exclusions apply to the OS 80, OS 40, OS 20 and OS 10 Area Plan Land Use Designations:

(a)

(b)

(c)

Greater building lot coverage may be allowed on non-conforming (less than applicable minimum lot size) lots by discretionary permits for existing structures and uses listed under the heading of "Crop and Orchard Production" in Article 5.

(d)

Greater building lot coverage may be allowed with the approval of a discretionary permit for Farmworker Housing Complexes.

(2)

The following exception applies to the RR 5, RR 2, UR 1-2, UR 2-4, UR 4-6 and UR 6-10 Area Plan Land Use Designations:

(a)

Maximum building lot coverage for lots of less than one (1) acre (nonconforming) in area shall be as specified in Section 8106- 1.4.1.1.5, or two thousand five hundred (2,500) square feet plus one (1) square foot for each 4.596 square feet of lot area over five thousand (5,000) square feet, whichever is greater.

(Ord. No. 4618, § 3, 7-25-2023)

8106-1.4.1.1.6 - Piru Area Plan.

Table 6 (Sec. 8106-1.4.1.1.6) Piru Area Plan Maximum Percentage of Building Lot Coverage

Area Plan Land Use Designation Maximum Building Lot Coverage (Percent)

Open Space (80 ac min) 5

Agricultural (40 ac min) 5

R-4 (2-4 du/ac) 36

R-6 (4-6 du/ac) 45

R-15 (10-15 du/ac) 55

RHD (20 du/ac) 60

SFE (2-4 du/ac) 36

SFT (4-6 du/ac) 45

MSP (6-8 du/ac) 50

CR (8-12 du/ac) 55

C (Commercial) 60

RMU (Retail Mixed-Use) 60

I (Industrial) 50

CF (Community Facility) 60

Notes: Exceptions and exclusions may apply, refer to Section 8106-1.4.1.1.6a and 8106-1.4.2. ac - Acre; du - Dwelling Unit; min - Minimum

(Ord. No. 4618, § 3, 7-25-2023)

8106-1.4.1.1.6a - Piru Area Plan building lot coverage exceptions and exclusions.

(1)

The following exceptions and exclusions apply to the Open Space, Agricultural, R-4, R-6, R-15, RHD, SFE, SFT, MSP and CR Area Plan Land Use Designations:

(a)

(b)

(c)

Greater building lot coverage may be allowed with the approval of a discretionary permit for structures and uses listed under the heading of "Crop and Orchard Production" in Article 5.

(d)

Greater building lot coverage may be allowed with the approval of a discretionary permit for Farmworker Housing Complexes.

(2)

The following exception applies to the C, RMU, I and CF Area Plan Land Use Designations:

(a)

Maximum building lot coverage for lots of less than one (1) acre (nonconforming) in area shall be as specified in Section 8016- 1.4.1,1.6, or two thousand five hundred (2,500) square feet plus one (1) square foot for each 4.596 square feet of lot area over five thousand (5,000) square feet, whichever is greater.

(3)

The following exception applies to the C Area Plan Land Use Designation:

(a)

Deviations may be allowed under the provisions of the Community Business District Overlay Zone.

(Ord. No. 4618, § 3, 7-25-2023)

8106-1.4.1.1.7 - Thousand Oaks Area Plan.

Table 7 (Sec. 8106-1.4.1.1.7) Thousand Oaks Area Plan Maximum Percentage of Building Lot Coverage

Area Plan Land Use Designation Maximum Building Lot Coverage (Percent)

POS (Public Open Space 10 ac min) 5

OS 40 (Open Space 40 ac min) 5

OS 20 (Open Space 20 ac min) 5

RR - 2 (Rural Residential 2 ac min) 25

UR - 1 (Urban Residential 1 du/ac) 25

UR - 2 (Urban Residential 1-2 du/ac) 28

UR - 4 (Urban Residential 2-4 du/ac) 35

UR - 8 (Urban Residential 6-8 du/ac) 48

UR - 16 (Urban Residential 12-16 du/ac) 55

I (Industrial) 50

Notes: Exceptions and exclusions may apply, refer to Sections 8106-1.4.1.1.7a and 8106-1.4.2. ac - Acre; du - Dwelling Unit; min - Minimum

(Ord. No. 4618, § 3, 7-25-2023)

8106-1.4.1.1.7a - Thousand Oaks Area Plan building lot coverage exceptions and exclusions.

(1)

The following exceptions and exclusions apply to the OS 20 Area Plan Land Use Designation:

(a)

(b)

(c)

Greater building lot coverage may be allowed with the approval of a discretionary permit for structures and uses listed under the heading of "Crop and Orchard Production" in Article 5.

(d)

Greater building lot coverage may be allowed with the approval of a discretionary permit for Farmworker Housing Complexes.

(2)

The following exception applies to the RR-2, UR-1, UR-2, UR-4, UR-8 and UR-16 Area Plan Land Use Designations:

(a)

Maximum building lot coverage for lots of less than one (1) acre (nonconforming) in area shall be as specified in Section 8106- 1.4.1.1.7, or two thousand five hundred (2,500) square feet plus one (1) square foot for each 4.596 square feet of lot area over five thousand (5,000) square feet, whichever is greater.

(Ord. No. 4618, § 3, 7-25-2023)

8106-1.4.1.1.8 - Saticoy Area Plan.

(1)

For lots subject to the Saticoy Area Plan and within the Old Town Saticoy mapped area, allowable uses and development standards are set forth in Appendix B, Section 8119-1 of the NCZO - Old Town Saticoy Development Code.

(2)

For lots subject to the Saticoy Area Plan and within the West and South Industrial mapped areas, maximum building lot coverage shall be fifty (50) percent of the lot area. For all other development standards for the South and West Industrial Sections, refer to Article 6 of this ordinance.

(Ord. No. 4618, § 3, 7-25-2023)

8106-1.4.1.2 - Maximum percentage of building lot coverage for lots within a mapped existing community designated area boundary and not subject to an area plan.

The maximum percentage of building lot coverage for lots located within a mapped existing community designated area and not subject to an area plan shall be determined in accordance with this Section 8106-1.4.1.2. The following existing community designated areas, as mapped in the Ventura County General Plan, shall be governed by this Section 8106-1.4.1.2:

Bell Canyon

Box Canyon

Camarillo Heights

East Santa Paula

Home Acres

La Cumbre Road

Las Posas Estates

Lewis Road

Matilija Canyon

Mission Rock Road

North Fork Springs

North Santa Paula

North Simi

Santa Rosa Valley

Santa Susana

Saticoy Country Club

Somis

Tapo Canyon

Thomas Aquinas College

Ventura Avenue

West Santa Paula

West Simi

(Ord. No. 4618, § 3, 7-25-2023)

Table 8 (Sec. 8106-1.4.1.2) Maximum Building Lot Coverage for Lots Within a Mapped Existing Community Designated Area Boundary and Not Subject to an Area Plan

NCZO Zone Classification Maximum Building Lot Coverage (Percent)

RA 25

RA - 1 ac 25

RA - 160 ac 25

RE - 10,000 sq ft 36

RE - 13,000 sq ft 33

RE - 18,000 sq ft 30

RE - 20,000 sq ft 29

RE - 20,000 sq ft av 29

RE - 40,000 sq ft 25

RE - 1 ac 25

RE - 1 ac/MRP 25

RE - 2 ac 25

RE - 5 ac 25

RE - 10 ac 5

RE - 13 ac 33

RE - 20 ac 5

RE - 30 ac 26

R1 - 6,000 sq ft 45

R1 - 8,000 sq ft 39

R1 - 10,000 sq ft 36

R1 - 13,000 sq ft 33

R1 - 20,000 sq ft 29

R2 - 7,000 sq ft 50

RO - 20,000 sq ft 29

RO - 1 ac 25

RHD - 20 du/ac 60

RPD 60

RPD - 1 du/ac 25

CPD 60

CO 50

C1 60

M2 - 10,000 sq ft 50

M3 - 10,000 sq ft 40

Notes: Exceptions and exclusions may apply, refer to Section 8106-1.4.1.2a and 8106-1.4.2. sq ft - Square Feet; ac - Acre; du - Dwelling Unit; min - Minimum

(Ord. No. 4618, § 3, 7-25-2023)

8106-1.4.1.2a - Exception to building lot coverage development standards for lots within the Las Posas Estates Existing Community.

For lots within the Las Posas Estates Existing Community zoned RE-20Ac, structures used for growing plants such as greenhouses, hothouses, and agricultural shade/mist structures are excluded from building lot coverage standards. This exclusion does not include structures used for preliminary packing, storage and preservation of produce and similar structures.

(Ord. No. 4618, § 3, 7-25-2023)

8106-1.4.1.3 - Maximum percentage of building lot coverage for lots outside of a mapped existing community designated area boundary and not subject to an area plan.

The maximum percentage of building lot coverage for lots located outside of a mapped existing community designated area boundary, and not subject to an area plan, shall be as specified in the General Plan for the applicable land use designation. The maximum building lot coverage standards that apply to each land use designation pursuant to the General Plan are set forth below. If any provision of this Section 8106-1.4.1.3 conflicts with the General Plan, the latter shall govern.

(Ord. No. 4618, § 3, 7-25-2023)

Table 9 (Sec. 8106-1.4.1.3) Maximum Building Lot Coverage for Lots Outside of a Mapped Existing Community Designated Area Boundary and Not Subject to an Area Plan

General Plan Land Use Designation Maximum Building Lot Coverage (Percent)

Rural 25

ECU-Rural 25

Agricultural 5

ECU-Agricultural 5

Open Space 5

ECU-Open Space 5

Mixed Use 60

Commercial 60

Commercial Planned Development 60

Industrial 50

Parks and Recreation 5

State, Federal, Other Public Land Not Applicable

Exceptions and exclusions may apply, refer to Section 8106-1.4.2.

(Ord. No. 4618, § 3, 7-25-2023)

8106-1.4.2 - Exceptions and exclusions to maximum percentage of building lot coverage.

The exceptions and exclusions established by this Section 8106-1.4.2 are in addition to those established in Sections 8106-1.4.1.1 and 8106-1.4.1.2. If any provision of Section 8106-1.4.2 conflicts with the exceptions and exclusions established by Sections 8106-

1.4.1.1 and 8106-1.4.1.2, the more permissive exception and/or exclusion shall govern.¶

(Ord. No. 4618, § 3, 7-25-2023)

8106-1.4.2.1 - Maximum building lot coverage for nonconforming lots with a rural land use designation.

Maximum building lot coverage for lots of less than one (1) acre (nonconforming) in area shall be as specified in the General Plan for the Rural land use designation, or two thousand five hundred (2,500) square feet plus one (1) square foot for each 4.596 square feet of lot area over five thousand (5,000) square feet, whichever is greater ([(Square Feet of Lot Area - 5,000) ÷ 4.596] + 2,500 = Maximum Square Footage of Building Lot Coverage).

(Ord. No. 4618, § 3, 7-25-2023)

8106-1.4.2.2 - Maximum building lot coverage for nonconforming lots with an agricultural land use designation.

Maximum building lot coverage of lots of less than ten (10) acres (nonconforming) in area shall be as specified in the General Plan for the Agricultural land use designation, or two thousand five hundred (2,500) square feet plus one (1) square foot for each 22.334 square feet of lot area over five thousand (5,000) square feet, whichever is greater ([(Square Feet of Lot Area - 5,000) ÷ 22.334] + 2,500 = Maximum Square Footage of Building Lot Coverage).

Greater building lot coverage may be allowed with the approval of a discretionary permit for structures or uses listed under the heading of "Crop and Orchard Production" in Article 5.

Greater building lot coverage may be allowed with the approval of a discretionary permit for Farmworker Housing Complexes.

(Ord. No. 4618, § 3, 7-25-2023)

8106-1.4.2.3 - Maximum building lot coverage for nonconforming lots with an open space land use designation.

Maximum building lot coverage of lots of less than ten (10) acres (nonconforming) in area shall be as specified in the General Plan for the Open Space land use designation, or one thousand five hundred (1,500) square feet plus one (1) square foot for each 22.334 square feet of lot area over five thousand (5,000) square feet, whichever is greater ([(Square Feet of Lot Area - 5,000) ÷ 22.334] + 2,500 = Maximum Square Footage of Building Lot Coverage).

Greater building lot coverage may be allowed with the approval of a discretionary permit for structures or uses listed under the heading of "Crop and Orchard Production" in Article 5.

Greater building lot coverage may be allowed with the approval of a discretionary permit for Farmworker Housing Complexes.

(Ord. No. 4618, § 3, 7-25-2023)

8106-1.4.2.4 - Maximum lot coverage for non-conforming lots with a residential land use designation.

Maximum building lot coverage for lots of less than one (1) acre (nonconforming) in area shall be as specified in the General Plan for the Residential land use designation, or two thousand five hundred (2,500) square feet plus one (1) square foot for each 4.596 square feet of lot area over five thousand (5,000) square feet, whichever is greater ([(Square Feet of Lot Area - 5,000) ÷ 4.596] + 2,500 = Maximum Square Footage of Building Lot Coverage).

(Ord. No. 4618, § 3, 7-25-2023)

8106-1.4.2.5 - Exclusion of structures used for growing plants on lots with an agriculture land use designation.

Structures used for growing plants such as greenhouses, hothouses, and agricultural shade/mist structures shall be excluded from the maximum building lot coverage standards applicable to lots with an Agricultural land use designation. This exclusion does not include structures used for preliminary packing, storage and preservation of produce and similar structures.

(Ord. No. 4618, § 3, 7-25-2023)

8106-2 - Deleted by Ord. 4333—12/6/05 8106-3 - Purpose and use of setbacks.

The setback regulations are intended to prevent the overcrowding of land, provide privacy, preclude narrow, unusable spaces between buildings and provide clear areas for fire safety purposes, both to retard the spread of fire and to enable emergency personnel to reach side and rear areas of buildings.

The setback regulations apply to buildings with foundations, and other structures such as those for parking and storage, whether or not they have foundations, and to open storage.

No required setback shall be used for parking or storage of any vehicles, nor for open storage or garages or any other structures except as allowed by Sections 8106-5.3, 8106-8.6, 8107-1.6.1, or otherwise specifically provided in this Chapter.

(Am. Ord. 3730—5/7/85; Am. Ord. 3810—5/5/87; Am. Ord. 4092—6/27/95; Am. Ord. 4282—5/20/03; Ord. No. 4618, § 3, 7-25-2023)

8106-4 - Measurement of setbacks. 8106-4.1 - Measurement of rear setback from an alley.

In computing the depth of a rear setback for any lot abutting an alley, the setback may be measured from the midpoint of the rear alley.

8106-4.2 - Setbacks from easements.

If the only means of access to one or more lots is by way of an easement, the easement shall be considered as a street for purposes of determining setbacks on lots over which the easement passes.

(Am. Ord. 3730—5/7/85)

8106-4.3 - Determination of setbacks for flag lots and irregularly shaped lots.

In the case of "flag lots" and "irregularly shaped lots", the setbacks shall be measured from the applicable front (F), rear (R) and side (S) of the lot as designated in the diagrams illustrated below.

In cases involving flag lots or irregularly shaped lots of a type not represented in any of the following diagrams, the Planning Director shall determine the minimum setbacks utilizing good planning practices.

Any portion of a flag tot or irregularly shaped lot that is adjacent to a street is a "required setback adjacent to a street" for purposes of fence regulations.

Illustration of Setbacks for Flag Lots (Section 8106-4.3)

Illustration of Setbacks for Irregularly Shaped Lots

Rear lot lines for triangular and irregularly shaped lots - A line ten (10) feet long within the lot, opposite and most distant from the front lot line, which is parallel to the front lot line or parallel to the chord of a curved front lot line, where such chord is drawn perpendicular to the mean direction of lot depth.

(Am. Ord. 3810—5/5/87; Am. Ord. 4216—10/24/00; Ord. No. 4618, § 3, 7-25-2023)

8106-4.4 - Determination of setbacks for through lots.

If the area of a through lot is less than twice the minimum lot area for the zone, one street frontage shall be designated as the front, and the other frontage shall be the rear.

If the lot area is two or more times the minimum area for the zone, each street frontage shall be considered a front for purposes of determining setbacks.

(Add Ord. 3810—5/5/87)

8106-5 - Exceptions to required setbacks and height.

The following are exceptions to the standards set forth in Section 8106-1 of this Chapter:

(Ord. No. 4618, § 3, 7-25-2023)

8106-5.1 - Accessory structures in certain setback areas.

Detached accessory structures (e.g., gazebo, garages, storage shed), not used for human habitation, shall not be located closer than three (3) feet from interior and rear lot lines, provided that:

Any such accessory structure(s) shall not occupy more than forty (40) percent of the rear setback area. This standard does not apply to below-grade, uncovered swimming pools, spas, hot tubs, and similar structures (having a water depth of eighteen (18) inches or more).

Setback areas adjacent to a street shall be maintained as set forth in Section 8106-1 of this Chapter.

(Ord. No. 4618, § 3, 7-25-2023; Ord. No. 4639, § 5, 12-17-2024)

8106-5.2 - Accessory structures in front setbacks on through lots.

A detached accessory structure not used for human habitation and not exceeding fifteen (15) feet in height may be located in one (1) of the required front setbacks on a large through lot, as described in Section 8106-4.4 of this Chapter, provided that every portion of such detached accessory structure is at least ten (10) feet from the nearest front property line.

(Am. Ord. 3810—5/5/87; Ord. No. 4618, § 3, 7-25-2023)

8106-5.3 - Parking in setbacks.

Parking in a required setback is prohibited except in the following circumstances:

Fully operative, licensed and registered motorized vehicles may be parked in the front or street-side setback when located in a driveway leading to a garage, carport, or other required parking space for single- and two-family dwellings. Said motorized vehicles and operative non-motorized vehicles (e.g., bicycles, boat or vehicle trailers), accessory to a dwelling, may be parked on a paved area (no wider than ten (10) feet) adjacent to the driveway, except as provided elsewhere in this Chapter.

No required setback may be used for the provision of required parking spaces, except as specifically provided in this Chapter.

In the M1 and M2 Zones, required off-street parking spaces may be located in required street-side setbacks, provided that such parking spaces are located behind required landscaping and screening and any other required improvements, such as sidewalks.

On interior lots, a minimum three-foot-wide area adjacent to one (1) side lot line shall be kept free of operative motorized vehicles and open storage. (See Section 8107-1.6 of this Chapter.)

(Am. Ord. 3730—5/7/85; Am. Ord. 3749—10/29/85; Am. Ord. 3810—5/5/87; Ord. No. 4407, § 4, 10-20-2009; Ord. No. 4618, § 3, 7- 25-2023)

8106-5.4 - Architectural features.

Eaves, cornices, canopies, belt courses, sills, buttresses and other similar architectural features that do not create additional floor area or living space, may project a maximum of two hundred twelve (212) feet into required front setbacks, two (2) feet into side setbacks and four (4) feet into rear setbacks, and may not be closer than two (2) feet from any side or rear property line. Such features shall not be closer than two (2) feet to a line midway between the exterior walls of buildings located on the same lot.

(Am. Ord. 3810—5/5/87; Ord. No. 4618, § 3, 7-25-2023)

8106-5.5 - Heating and cooling equipment and the like.

Accessory equipment such as heating, cooling, filtering and circulation pumps, emergency backup generators, backup battery packs, and other necessary appurtenances may be located to within three (3) feet of any side or rear lot line. Such equipment is exempt from a Planning Division entitlement pursuant to Sections 8105-4 and 8105-5 of this Chapter. Unless otherwise determined by the Planning Director, equipment that is accessory to a use with an underlying discretionary entitlement will require a permit adjustment or modification to the approved entitlement.

(Am. Ord. 4216—10/24/00; Ord. No. 4606, § 3, 11-1-2022)

8106-5.6 - Balconies, fire escapes and stairways.

Open, unenclosed stairways or balconies not covered by roofs or canopies may extend into required rear setbacks not more than four (4) feet, and into required front setbacks not more than two and one-half (2½) feet.

(Am. Ord. 3810—5/5/87; Am. Ord. 4092—6/27/95; Ord. No. 4618, § 3, 7-25-2023)

8106-5.7 - Chimneys, bay windows, and fireplaces.

Masonry chimneys, bay windows, and fireplaces may project into required setbacks or required common open space not more than two (2) feet provided that such structures shall not be closer than three (3) feet to any side lot Une. Where more than one (1) building is located on the same lot, such structures shall not be closer than three (3) feet to a line midway between the main walls of such buildings.

(Ord. No. 4618, § 3, 7-25-2023)

8106-5.8 - Depressed ramps.

Open-work fences, hedges, guard railings or other landscaping or architectural devices for safety protection around depressed ramps, designed to permit access to parts of buildings that are below average ground level, may be located in required setbacks or required common open space, provided that such devices are not more than three and one-half (3½) feet in height.

(Ord. No. 4618, § 3, 7-25-2023)

8106-5.9 - Uncovered, unenclosed landings and porches.

Uncovered porches, platforms or landings which do not extend above the level of the first floor of the building may extend into required front setbacks not more than six (6) feet, and into required side and rear setbacks no closer than three (3) feet from the property line. An open-work railing not more than three and one-half (3½) feet tall may be installed or constructed on such porch, platform or landing.

(Ord. No. 4618, § 3, 7-25-2023; Ord. No. 4639, § 5, 12-17-2024)

8106-5.10 - Decks.

When constructed at or below the level of the first floor of the building, a deck may extend into required side or rear setbacks, but may not occupy more than forty (40) percent of a required rear setback, nor be located closer than three (3) feet to a side or rear lot line. This does not apply to hardscape directly on grade and/or to decks on grade adjacent to swimming pools.

(Am. Ord. 3730—5/7/85; Ord. No. 4618, § 3, 7-25-2023)

8106-5.11 - Front setback with "swing" driveways.

In the R1 and R2 Zones, dwellings constructed with carports or garages having a curved or "swing" driveway, with the entrances to the carports or garages facing the side lot line, may have a minimum front setback of fifteen (15) feet.

(Add Ord. 3730—5/7/85; Ord. No. 4618, § 3, 7-25-2023)

8106-5.12 - Temporary housing during construction.

A recreational vehicle (RV) used for temporary housing during construction shall be set back at least five (5) feet from lot lines on which it is placed.

(Add Ord. 3730—5/7/85; Ord. No. 4532, § 3, 10-30-2018; Ord. No. 4618, § 3, 7-25-2023)

8106-5.13 - Swimming pools and spas.

Swimming pools, spas, hot tubs and similar structures may be constructed to within three (3) feet of rear and interior side lot lines, provided that they do not intrude into any front or street-side setback. Pools designed to hold less than eighteen (18) inches of water depth are exempt from setback requirements.

(Add Ord. 3749—10/29/85; Am. Ord. 3810—5/5/87; Ord. No. 4618, § 3, 7-25-2023)

8106-5.14 - Miscellaneous exceptions.

These regulations are not intended to apply to trees or other natural vegetation, nor to construction that does not extend above grade level, nor to such things as outdoor furniture or unenclosed play structures for children (except if designed for use by non-motorized wheeled conveyances of any kind), provided that such items are placed so as not to hinder setback objectives (as described in Article 6).

(Am. Ord. 4092—6/27/95)

8106-5.15 - Building additions.

Horizontal or vertical additions to legally existing principal buildings that do not meet current side setback requirements may be constructed with the same side setbacks as the existing construction, provided that:

The existing side setback is at least three (3) feet on the side of the expansion; and

The linear front-to-rear dimension of any such forward or rearward expansion, or combination thereof, does not exceed seventy-five (75) percent of the existing linear front-to-rear dimension of the nonconformity; and

New construction that is directly adjacent to existing conforming construction complies with current setback requirements; and

No new setback nonconformity is created in a side setback that does not have an existing setback nonconformity; and

Except for architectural features and similar setback intrusions that have no floor area and are allowed elsewhere in this Article, new construction over ten (10) feet in height shall conform to current setback requirements.

(Add Ord. 4123—9/17/96; Ord. No. 4618, § 3, 7-25-2023)

8106-5.16 - Mailboxes.

Structures that support mailboxes with curbside mail delivery may be placed in the front setback, provided that they do not exceed a height of fifty (50) inches, and are not larger than twenty-four (24) inches on each side.

(Add Ord. 4123—9/17/96; Ord. No. 4618, § 3, 7-25-2023)

8106-6 - Miscellaneous setback regulations. 8106-6.1 - Distance between structures on the same lot.

The minimum distance between structures on the same lot shall be six (6) feet, except that:

(1)

Below-grade, uncovered swimming pools, spas, hot tubs and similar structures (having a water depth of eighteen (18) inches or more) shall be sited at least three (3) feet from any other structure, and shall be structurally designed and engineered in compliance with the

Ventura County Building Code. Gazebos, patio covers and similar above-grade shade structures that are part of the swimming pool, spa, and/or hot tub shall be sited at least six (6) feet from any other structure;

(2)

Detached dwellings shall be sited no closer than ten (10) feet from any other detached dwelling; and

(3)

Prefabricated sea cargo/metal storage containers used solely for storage of non-hazardous materials, are not structurally modified, do not include any utilities, and are not used or converted to mechanical rooms may be located closer than six (6) feet from each other. These containers shall not be stacked except when permitted in a discretionary entitlement.

The setback requirements refer to minimum distances between exterior walls or other supports.

(Am. Ord. 3810—5/5/87; Ord. No. 4580 § 3, 4-13-2021; Ord. No. 4639, § 5, 12-17-2024)

8106-6.2 - Garages and carports.

Except as otherwise provided in this Chapter, garages and carports shall be set back sufficiently from streets from which they take access to provide for at least twenty (20) linear feet of driveway apron, as measured along the centerline of the driveway from the lot line to the garage or carport.

(Add Ord. 3730—5/7/85; Ord. No. 4618, § 3, 7-25-2023)

8106-6.3 - Setbacks from existing oil/gas well sites.

No dwelling should be constructed within 800 feet of an existing oil/gas well site unless it is unavoidable. No dwelling shall be built within 500 feet of an existing well site unless the owner records with the title to the property a statement, acceptable to the County Counsel, acknowledging the presence of the well site and the fact that operations associated therewith, including well drilling and redrilling, may disturb the occupants, even though said operations are being conducted in accordance with specific permit conditions, the best accepted practices incident to the exploration of oil and gas, and the provisions of this Chapter. If such an acknowledgement is recorded, the dwelling may be located less than 500 feet from an existing oil well site, but in no case less than 100 feet from said well site. For purposes of this section, 'well site' means the area around a well, which may contain production facilities.

(Add Ord. 3810—5/5/87)

8106-6.4 - Buildings and structures for the growing of crops.

Greenhouses, hothouses, shade/mist structures and similar buildings and structures shall be set back at least twenty (20) feet from all lot lines. (See Section 8107-20.)

(Add Ord. 4092—6/27/95; Ord. No. 4618, § 3, 7-25-2023; Ord. No. 4639, § 5, 12-17-2024)

8106-6.5 - Wildlife crossing structures and setback areas (northern unincorporated area).

The purpose of this Section 8106-6.5 is to establish setbacks for certain development, land uses, and activities adjacent to wildlife crossing structures in the northern portion of the Ventura County unincorporated area to improve functional connectivity for terrestrial and aquatic wildlife across road barriers in the landscape by preserving vegetation cover and minimizing disturbances immediately adjacent to the entry and exit points of wildlife crossing structures.

(Ord. No. 4619, § 2, 9-12-2023)

8106-6.5.1 - Wildlife crossing structures.

The regulations within this Section 8106-6.5 shall apply to wildlife crossing structures identified in Tables 1 and 2 (below), and the 200- foot setback area set forth in Section 8106-6.5.4.

Table 1 Ventura County Wildlife Crossing Structures Located Within

the Northern Portion of the Ventura County Unincorporated Area

Agency Culvert/Bridge ID Road Name Latitude (N) Longitude (W)

               69112-1-1                               34.468831   119.224146
                                      Gridley Road
             322                                     34.46688    119.224354

Ventura County 50825-3-14 34.740338 119.087179 Lockwood Valley Road 50825-4-14 34.740637 119.086688

Table 2 California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) Wildlife Crossing Structures Located Within the Northern Portion of the Ventura County Unincorporated Area

Agency Bridge ID Location Road Name Latitude Longitude

          52 0092       07-VEN-033-50.70                                      344236       1192236

          52 0088       07-VEN-033-51.78                                      344318       1192300

          52 0086       07-VEN-033-48.69                                      344118       1192130

          52 0043       07-VEN-033-15.52                                      342912       1191812

          52 0044       07-VEN-033-15.82                                      342918       1191818

Caltrans State Route 33, Maricopa Highway 52 0066 07-VEN-033-17.41 343024 1191736

          52 0067       07-VEN-033-17.84                                      343036       1191712

          52 0173       07-VEN-033-16.13                                      342930       1191818

          52 0087       07-VEN-033-50.91                                      344248       1192248

          52 0042       07-VEN-033-14.58                                      342806       1191706

(Ord. No. 4619, § 2, 9-12-2023)

8106-6.5.2 - Prohibited development, structures, land uses and activities.

Unless otherwise exempt by Section 8106-6.5.3, or excepted pursuant to Section 8106-6.5.5, the following types of new development, structures, land uses, and activities constructed or occurring after September 12, 2023 shall be prohibited from occurring within the 200-foot setback area described in Section 8106-6.5.4 of any wildlife crossing structure identified in Tables 1 and 2 of Section 8106-6.5.1 above.

Any new structure, land use, or activity that requires a zoning clearance or other permit under Article 5, including any associated new fuel modification authorized or required by the Ventura County Fire Protection District.

Any expansion or enlargement of an existing structure that requires a permit under Article 5, including any associated new fuel modification authorized or required by the Ventura County Fire Protection District.

New or replacement wildlife impermeable fencing within the bank or bed of a stream or river.

Any vegetation modification.

New or modified landscape areas.

New or replacement outdoor lighting.

New indoor luminaires within translucent or transparent enclosed structures for agricultural operations.

(Ord. No. 4619, § 2, 9-12-2023)

8106-6.5.3 - General exemptions.

The following types of development, land uses, structures and activities are not subject to Section 8106-6.5.

Vegetation modification that is:

(1)

Required to comply with any federal or state law, or requirement of any permit, approval or order issued by a federal or state agency.

(2)

Carried out as part of a habitat preservation, restoration or enhancement project when specified by an agency approved mitigation plan, habitat conservation plan, or similar plan.

(3)

Conducted by a conservation organization for the purpose of maintaining or enhancing biological habitat or wildlife movement.

(4)

Reasonably required to maintain, repair or replace existing transportation, utility, and public safety infrastructure performed by a public agency or contracted designee. Examples include roads, bridges, pipelines, utility lines, flood control improvements, and drainage and utility ditches.

(5)

Performed by a public agency on publicly owned or maintained property.

(6)

Associated exclusively with vegetation that has been intentionally planted within a landscape area.

(7)

Conducted in accordance with one (1) or more of the following: (i) as required or authorized by the Ventura County Fire Protection District (VCFPD) pursuant to VCFPD Fire Code, as may be amended; (ii) pursuant to a Community Wildfire Protection Plan or similar fuel modification/wildfire protection plan adopted and/or amended by VCFPD; or (iii) pursuant to a burn permit approved by VCFPD.

(8)

Conducted to construct or maintain a driveway or road internal to a legal lot that is utilized to plant or harvest a crop or orchard that will be commercially sold.

The following structures, development, land uses, and activities:

(1)

Repair or maintenance of an existing, legally establishedstructure or fence.

(2)

The installation of wildlife impermeable fencing that is required to comply with any federal or state law, or any condition or requirement of any permit, approval or order issued by a federal or state agency.

(3)

Structures involuntarily damaged or destroyed by fire, flood, landslide, or natural disaster rebuilt to their original state and in their original location if (i) less than fifty percent (50%) of the structure is damaged or destroyed and (ii) a complete building permit application is submitted to the County within three (3) years of the date that the damage occurred, and the permit once approved is diligently pursued to completion prior to expiration. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Chapter, the rebuilding of structures following fire, flood, landslide or natural disaster not meeting the above requirements shall comply with the requirements of this

Get a plain-English answer with a citation back to this text.

Ask AI about this code

Export this section

▸Contents — VenturaCounty Municipal Code

VenturaCounty Municipal Code

GoCodebook provides public access, search, citation, multilingual explanation, and practical interpretation of legally adopted building regulations. It is not a substitute for the official ICC or California code publications.