Hayward · Zoning · SMU
Hayward SMU zoning: height, setbacks and lot size
In Hayward's SMU zone, generally buildings can be up to 55 ft tall, the front setback is 20 ft and the minimum lot size is 20,000 sq ft, with the conditions listed below (Hayward code, read October 2026).
Key points
- Maximum building height: 55 ft (main/primary building)
- Minimum front setback: 20 ft (along public street)
- Minimum lot size: 20,000 sq ft
- Maximum lot coverage: 90%
- Maximum density: 25.0 to 55.0 units per acre (the code sets a range: at least 25.0, at most 55.0)
SMU (Sustainable Mixed Use District) is a zoning district in Hayward. Every value below was read from the Hayward Municipal Code and links to its section (read October 2026). State laws such as the ADU and SB 9 rules can allow more on a residential lot. General information, not legal advice — read the code text and check with the city before you build.
Development standards in SMU
The general rule for a typical lot in this zone. Zoning tables often attach notes, such as rules for corner lots, lots next to a residential zone, or new subdivisions only. Open “code text” under a value to see the table cell or sentence it was read from.
| Maximum building height | 55 ft Applies: main/primary building § 10-1.785 · code texta. Maximum Building Height: 55 feet. |
|---|---|
| Minimum front setback | 20 ft Applies: along public street § 10-1.780 · code texta. Minimum Setbacks along Public Street: 20 feet. |
| Minimum lot size | 20,000 sq ft § 10-1.775 · code texta. Minimum Lot Size: 20,000 square feet. |
| Maximum lot coverage | 90% § 10-1.775 · code texte. Maximum Lot Coverage: 90 percent. |
| Maximum density | 25.0 to 55.0 units per acre Applies: the code sets a range: at least 25.0, at most 55.0 § 10-1.775 · code textb. Required Residential Density Range: 25.0 to 55.0 units per acre. |
When a different number applies
The code sets other values for particular lots, buildings or locations in SMU:
- Minimum front setback: 10 ft — Areas other than along a public street § 10-1.780
Not on this page
We did not find a general stories, side setback, rear setback, FAR limit for SMU in the zoning tables we read. The code may still set one elsewhere — check the Hayward Municipal Code.
Other Hayward zoning districts
Who this affects
Frequently asked questions
What is the maximum building height in Hayward's SMU zone?
55 ft (main/primary building) — Hayward Municipal Code § 10-1.785.
What is the minimum front setback in Hayward's SMU zone?
20 ft (along public street) — Hayward Municipal Code § 10-1.780.
What is the minimum lot size in Hayward's SMU zone?
20,000 sq ft — Hayward Municipal Code § 10-1.775.
What is the maximum lot coverage in Hayward's SMU zone?
90% — Hayward Municipal Code § 10-1.775.
What is the maximum density in Hayward's SMU zone?
25.0 to 55.0 units per acre (the code sets a range: at least 25.0, at most 55.0) — Hayward Municipal Code § 10-1.775.
General information, not legal advice.
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