Building on your lot in Sacramento

17.620.110 Regulations for residential development. The regulations in this section apply to walls and fences for single-unit, duplex, and multi-unit dwelling developments. A. Front yards and street side yards. Walls or fences not exceeding 4 feet in height may be placed along the front and street side property lines or within the front-yard and street side-yard setback areas, subject to the following exceptions. 1. Exception-Welded-metal fences. A decorative, open wrought-iron or tubular-steel fence not exceeding 6 feet in height may be placed along the front and street side property lines or within the front-yard and street side-yard setback areas. a. This exception does not authorize solid walls or fences composed of chain link, woven wire, wood, or materials other than open wrought iron or tubular steel. b. A post or pilaster, consisting of masonry, brick, or other solid material, not exceeding 18 inches square and 6 feet tall, may be used to support a wrought iron or tubular steel fence at a minimum distance between posts of 6 feet. 2. Exception-Chain link and woven-wire fences. Chain link and woven-wire fences are prohibited within the front-yard and street side-yard setback areas. 3. Exception-Street side-yard setback area. a. Fence location. A fence or wall not exceeding 6 feet in height may be placed within the street side-yard setback area if it is either located at least five feet from the street side property line or is placed on a line parallel to the street and that represents the extension of the wall of the main building that is nearest to the street. b. Landscaping requirement. Climbing vines, shrubs, or trees shall be planted along the base of that portion of the wall or fence that fronts a public street. The remaining setback area between the wall or fence and property line shall be landscaped with grass or other low groundcover. All plants shall be properly irrigated and maintained. Only living vegetation may be used to meet the landscaping requirements. 4. Exception-Gate feature. A decorative gateway feature is permitted if the feature has a maximum height of 10 feet, a maximum length of 8 feet, and a maximum width of 24 inches. B. Rear yard and interior side yard. 1. Except as provided in subparagraphs a and b below, a wall or fence not exceeding 6 feet in height may be placed along the rear or interior side property lines or within the rear or interior side yard setback area. a. A wall or fence not exceeding 8 feet in height may be placed along a rear or interior side property line that abuts a school, park, alley, or other nonresidential use. b. A development abutting a freeway or railroad may construct a solid wall up to 12 feet in height for purposes of sound attenuation. The wall shall comply with the development standards for sound walls in article III. 2. A decorative gateway feature is permitted as long as the feature has a maximum height of 10 feet, a maximum length of 8 feet, and a maximum width of 24 inches. 3. Fences exceeding 6 feet in height are allowed outside the required rear-yard and interior side-yard setback areas. C. Multi-unit dwelling-Wall requirement. 1. A multi-unit dwelling located on a single parcel shall provide a minimum of 6-foot high solid wall of masonry, brick, or similar material along all property lines that border the on-site parking lot and which abut a single-unit dwelling, duplex dwelling, or a lot within any of the zoning districts in chapter 17.204. 2. The 6-foot wall shall not extend into any required front-yard or street side-yard setback of the multi-unit dwelling development or adjacent residential development. 3. The height of the wall in the front-yard or street side-yard setback area shall comply with subsection A of this section. D. Concertina wire; barbed wire. 1. Concertina wire, serpentine wire, barbed wire, razor wire, and other similar fencing materials capable of inflicting significant physical injury is prohibited, unless required by court order or allowed pursuant to subsection D.2. 2. A site plan and design review deviation under article I of chapter 17.808 to allow use of these fencing materials may be approved if the decision maker finds that use of these fencing materials is reasonably necessary to protect persons or property and will not constitute a safety hazard to members of the public conducting themselves in a lawful manner. 3. These fencing materials shall not protrude into or over the public right-of-way. (Ord. 2019-0006 § 14; Ord. 2013-0020 § 1; Ord. 2013-0007 § 1)

17.620.110 Regulations for residential development. The regulations in this section apply to walls and fences for single-unit, duplex, and multi-unit dwelling developments. A. Front yards and street side yards. Walls or fences not exceeding 4 feet in height may be placed along the front and street side property lines or within the front-yard and street side-yard setback areas, subject to the following exceptions. 1. Exception-Welded-metal fences. A decorative, open wrought-iron or tubular-steel fence not exceeding 6 feet in height may be placed along the front and street side property lines or within the front-yard and street side-yard setback areas. a. This exception does not authorize solid walls or fences composed of chain link, woven wire, wood, or materials other than open wrought iron or tubular steel. b. A post or pilaster, consisting of masonry, brick, or other solid material, not exceeding 18 inches square and 6 feet tall, may be used to support a wrought iron or tubular steel fence at a minimum distance between posts of 6 feet. 2. Exception-Chain link and woven-wire fences. Chain link and woven-wire fences are prohibited within the front-yard and street side-yard setback areas. 3. Exception-Street side-yard setback area. a. Fence location. A fence or wall not exceeding 6 feet in height may be placed within the street side-yard setback area if it is either located at least five feet from the street side property line or is placed on a line parallel to the street and that represents the extension of the wall of the main building that is nearest to the street. b. Landscaping requirement. Climbing vines, shrubs, or trees shall be planted along the base of that portion of the wall or fence that fronts a public street. The remaining setback area between the wall or fence and property line shall be landscaped with grass or other low groundcover. All plants shall be properly irrigated and maintained. Only living vegetation may be used to meet the landscaping requirements. 4. Exception-Gate feature. A decorative gateway feature is permitted if the feature has a maximum height of 10 feet, a maximum length of 8 feet, and a maximum width of 24 inches. B. Rear yard and interior side yard. 1. Except as provided in subparagraphs a and b below, a wall or fence not exceeding 6 feet in height may be placed along the rear or interior side property lines or within the rear or interior side yard setback area. a. A wall or fence not exceeding 8 feet in height may be placed along a rear or interior side property line that abuts a school, park, alley, or other nonresidential use. b. A development abutting a freeway or railroad may construct a solid wall up to 12 feet in height for purposes of sound attenuation. The wall shall comply with the development standards for sound walls in article III. 2. A decorative gateway feature is permitted as long as the feature has a maximum height of 10 feet, a maximum length of 8 feet, and a maximum width of 24 inches. 3. Fences exceeding 6 feet in height are allowed outside the required rear-yard and interior side-yard setback areas. C. Multi-unit dwelling-Wall requirement. 1. A multi-unit dwelling located on a single parcel shall provide a minimum of 6-foot high solid wall of masonry, brick, or similar material along all property lines that border the on-site parking lot and which abut a single-unit dwelling, duplex dwelling, or a lot within any of the zoning districts in chapter 17.204. 2. The 6-foot wall shall not extend into any required front-yard or street side-yard setback of the multi-unit dwelling development or adjacent residential development. 3. The height of the wall in the front-yard or street side-yard setback area shall comply with subsection A of this section. D. Concertina wire; barbed wire. 1. Concertina wire, serpentine wire, barbed wire, razor wire, and other similar fencing materials capable of inflicting significant physical injury is prohibited, unless required by court order or allowed pursuant to subsection D.2. 2. A site plan and design review deviation under article I of chapter 17.808 to allow use of these fencing materials may be approved if the decision maker finds that use of these fencing materials is reasonably necessary to protect persons or property and will not constitute a safety hazard to members of the public conducting themselves in a lawful manner. 3. These fencing materials shall not protrude into or over the public right-of-way. (Ord. 2019-0006 § 14; Ord. 2013-0020 § 1; Ord. 2013-0007 § 1)

17.620.110 Regulations for residential development. The regulations in this section apply to walls and fences for single-unit, duplex, and multi-unit dwelling developments. A. Front yards and street side yards. Walls or fences not exceeding 4 feet in height may be placed along the front and street side property lines or within the front-yard and street side-yard setback areas, subject to the following exceptions. 1. Exception-Welded-metal fences. A decorative, open wrought-iron or tubular-steel fence not exceeding 6 feet in height may be placed along the front and street side property lines or within the front-yard and street side-yard setback areas. a. This exception does not authorize solid walls or fences composed of chain link, woven wire, wood, or materials other than open wrought iron or tubular steel. b. A post or pilaster, consisting of masonry, brick, or other solid material, not exceeding 18 inches square and 6 feet tall, may be used to support a wrought iron or tubular steel fence at a minimum distance between posts of 6 feet. 2. Exception-Chain link and woven-wire fences. Chain link and woven-wire fences are prohibited within the front-yard and street side-yard setback areas. 3. Exception-Street side-yard setback area. a. Fence location. A fence or wall not exceeding 6 feet in height may be placed within the street side-yard setback area if it is either located at least five feet from the street side property line or is placed on a line parallel to the street and that represents the extension of the wall of the main building that is nearest to the street. b. Landscaping requirement. Climbing vines, shrubs, or trees shall be planted along the base of that portion of the wall or fence that fronts a public street. The remaining setback area between the wall or fence and property line shall be landscaped with grass or other low groundcover. All plants shall be properly irrigated and maintained. Only living vegetation may be used to meet the landscaping requirements. 4. Exception-Gate feature. A decorative gateway feature is permitted if the feature has a maximum height of 10 feet, a maximum length of 8 feet, and a maximum width of 24 inches. B. Rear yard and interior side yard. 1. Except as provided in subparagraphs a and b below, a wall or fence not exceeding 6 feet in height may be placed along the rear or interior side property lines or within the rear or interior side yard setback area. a. A wall or fence not exceeding 8 feet in height may be placed along a rear or interior side property line that abuts a school, park, alley, or other nonresidential use. b. A development abutting a freeway or railroad may construct a solid wall up to 12 feet in height for purposes of sound attenuation. The wall shall comply with the development standards for sound walls in article III. 2. A decorative gateway feature is permitted as long as the feature has a maximum height of 10 feet, a maximum length of 8 feet, and a maximum width of 24 inches. 3. Fences exceeding 6 feet in height are allowed outside the required rear-yard and interior side-yard setback areas. C. Multi-unit dwelling-Wall requirement. 1. A multi-unit dwelling located on a single parcel shall provide a minimum of 6-foot high solid wall of masonry, brick, or similar material along all property lines that border the on-site parking lot and which abut a single-unit dwelling, duplex dwelling, or a lot within any of the zoning districts in chapter 17.204. 2. The 6-foot wall shall not extend into any required front-yard or street side-yard setback of the multi-unit dwelling development or adjacent residential development. 3. The height of the wall in the front-yard or street side-yard setback area shall comply with subsection A of this section. D. Concertina wire; barbed wire. 1. Concertina wire, serpentine wire, barbed wire, razor wire, and other similar fencing materials capable of inflicting significant physical injury is prohibited, unless required by court order or allowed pursuant to subsection D.2. 2. A site plan and design review deviation under article I of chapter 17.808 to allow use of these fencing materials may be approved if the decision maker finds that use of these fencing materials is reasonably necessary to protect persons or property and will not constitute a safety hazard to members of the public conducting themselves in a lawful manner. 3. These fencing materials shall not protrude into or over the public right-of-way. (Ord. 2019-0006 § 14; Ord. 2013-0020 § 1; Ord. 2013-0007 § 1)

A fence or wall not exceeding 6 feet in height may be placed within the street side-yard setback area if it is either located at least five feet from the street side property line or is placed on a line parallel to the street and that represents the extension of the wall of the main building that is nearest to the street.

17.620.110 Regulations for residential development. The regulations in this section apply to walls and fences for single-unit, duplex, and multi-unit dwelling developments. A. Front yards and street side yards. Walls or fences not exceeding 4 feet in height may be placed along the front and street side property lines or within the front-yard and street side-yard setback areas, subject to the following exceptions. 1. Exception-Welded-metal fences. A decorative, open wrought-iron or tubular-steel fence not exceeding 6 feet in height may be placed along the front and street side property lines or within the front-yard and street side-yard setback areas. a. This exception does not authorize solid walls or fences composed of chain link, woven wire, wood, or materials other than open wrought iron or tubular steel. b. A post or pilaster, consisting of masonry, brick, or other solid material, not exceeding 18 inches square and 6 feet tall, may be used to support a wrought iron or tubular steel fence at a minimum distance between posts of 6 feet. 2. Exception-Chain link and woven-wire fences. Chain link and woven-wire fences are prohibited within the front-yard and street side-yard setback areas. 3. Exception-Street side-yard setback area. a. Fence location. A fence or wall not exceeding 6 feet in height may be placed within the street side-yard setback area if it is either located at least five feet from the street side property line or is placed on a line parallel to the street and that represents the extension of the wall of the main building that is nearest to the street. b. Landscaping requirement. Climbing vines, shrubs, or trees shall be planted along the base of that portion of the wall or fence that fronts a public street. The remaining setback area between the wall or fence and property line shall be landscaped with grass or other low groundcover. All plants shall be properly irrigated and maintained. Only living vegetation may be used to meet the landscaping requirements. 4. Exception-Gate feature. A decorative gateway feature is permitted if the feature has a maximum height of 10 feet, a maximum length of 8 feet, and a maximum width of 24 inches. B. Rear yard and interior side yard. 1. Except as provided in subparagraphs a and b below, a wall or fence not exceeding 6 feet in height may be placed along the rear or interior side property lines or within the rear or interior side yard setback area. a. A wall or fence not exceeding 8 feet in height may be placed along a rear or interior side property line that abuts a school, park, alley, or other nonresidential use. b. A development abutting a freeway or railroad may construct a solid wall up to 12 feet in height for purposes of sound attenuation. The wall shall comply with the development standards for sound walls in article III. 2. A decorative gateway feature is permitted as long as the feature has a maximum height of 10 feet, a maximum length of 8 feet, and a maximum width of 24 inches. 3. Fences exceeding 6 feet in height are allowed outside the required rear-yard and interior side-yard setback areas. C. Multi-unit dwelling-Wall requirement. 1. A multi-unit dwelling located on a single parcel shall provide a minimum of 6-foot high solid wall of masonry, brick, or similar material along all property lines that border the on-site parking lot and which abut a single-unit dwelling, duplex dwelling, or a lot within any of the zoning districts in chapter 17.204. 2. The 6-foot wall shall not extend into any required front-yard or street side-yard setback of the multi-unit dwelling development or adjacent residential development. 3. The height of the wall in the front-yard or street side-yard setback area shall comply with subsection A of this section. D. Concertina wire; barbed wire. 1. Concertina wire, serpentine wire, barbed wire, razor wire, and other similar fencing materials capable of inflicting significant physical injury is prohibited, unless required by court order or allowed pursuant to subsection D.2. 2. A site plan and design review deviation under article I of chapter 17.808 to allow use of these fencing materials may be approved if the decision maker finds that use of these fencing materials is reasonably necessary to protect persons or property and will not constitute a safety hazard to members of the public conducting themselves in a lawful manner. 3. These fencing materials shall not protrude into or over the public right-of-way. (Ord. 2019-0006 § 14; Ord. 2013-0020 § 1; Ord. 2013-0007 § 1)

A wall or fence not exceeding 8 feet in height may be placed along a rear or interior side property line that abuts a school, park, alley, or other nonresidential use.

17.620.320 Development standards. The standards in this section apply to sound walls required by this article. A. Design. The wall shall be designed to be in character, scale, and style of the surrounding neighborhood. The wall design and appearance shall be reviewed and approved by the zoning administrator. B. Materials. Walls shall be constructed of brick, concrete, or masonry material. The wall surface shall be easy to maintain. C. Height. 1. Walls shall have a minimum height of 6 feet and a maximum height of 8 feet above the adjacent finish grade along arterial streets. Walls shall have a minimum height of 6 feet and a maximum height of 12 feet above the adjacent finish grade along freeways and railroads. 2. The height of the wall is measured from the highest point of the wall to the adjacent finish grade. Where the finish grades differ on each side of the wall or fence, such as when the wall is also used as a soil retaining structure, the height is measured from the higher adjacent finish grade. 3. If required to conform to environmental mitigation measures or the noise element of the general plan, as documented in a noise study, a wall in excess of the height limit stated in this subsection C is permitted as necessary to attenuate noise to comply with the mitigation measure or the general plan. 4. Walls required to be greater than 8 feet in height shall be constructed utilizing soil mounding to reduce the apparent height. 5. A wall in the front-yard or street side-yard setback area of residential uses must comply with the residential requirements for a wall in section 17.620.110.B.1.a. D. Landscaped setback. Walls shall be set back a minimum of 25 feet from the public right-of-way. Setback areas shall be landscaped with ground cover, shrubs, vines, mounds, and trees. An automatic irrigation system shall be in-stalled in the landscaped setback area. The landscape plan for the setback area shall be approved by the city landscape architect. E. Structural criteria. Walls shall be constructed in accordance with the current Sacramento City Building Code. A building permit shall be required for a wall over 6 feet in height. 1. Walls may be designed to meet CalTrans sound wall design criteria that meet or exceed the base stated standards and are acceptable as an alternative sound wall type. F. Long-term maintenance funding. A funding method to provide for the long term, ongoing maintenance of the wall and landscaped area shall be submitted and approved by the city prior to the construction of the wall. G. Walls located adjacent to CalTrans rights-of-way shall utilize the CalTrans sound wall design criteria and the CalTrans standard construction drawings of approved sound wall types. H. In areas where terrain, grade, and access control allow, walls may be constructed within the state right-of-way under a CalTrans encroachment permit. [Figure] [Figure] (Ord. 2013-0020 § 1; Ord. 2013-0007 § 1)

17.620.110 Regulations for residential development. The regulations in this section apply to walls and fences for single-unit, duplex, and multi-unit dwelling developments. A. Front yards and street side yards. Walls or fences not exceeding 4 feet in height may be placed along the front and street side property lines or within the front-yard and street side-yard setback areas, subject to the following exceptions. 1. Exception-Welded-metal fences. A decorative, open wrought-iron or tubular-steel fence not exceeding 6 feet in height may be placed along the front and street side property lines or within the front-yard and street side-yard setback areas. a. This exception does not authorize solid walls or fences composed of chain link, woven wire, wood, or materials other than open wrought iron or tubular steel. b. A post or pilaster, consisting of masonry, brick, or other solid material, not exceeding 18 inches square and 6 feet tall, may be used to support a wrought iron or tubular steel fence at a minimum distance between posts of 6 feet. 2. Exception-Chain link and woven-wire fences. Chain link and woven-wire fences are prohibited within the front-yard and street side-yard setback areas. 3. Exception-Street side-yard setback area. a. Fence location. A fence or wall not exceeding 6 feet in height may be placed within the street side-yard setback area if it is either located at least five feet from the street side property line or is placed on a line parallel to the street and that represents the extension of the wall of the main building that is nearest to the street. b. Landscaping requirement. Climbing vines, shrubs, or trees shall be planted along the base of that portion of the wall or fence that fronts a public street. The remaining setback area between the wall or fence and property line shall be landscaped with grass or other low groundcover. All plants shall be properly irrigated and maintained. Only living vegetation may be used to meet the landscaping requirements. 4. Exception-Gate feature. A decorative gateway feature is permitted if the feature has a maximum height of 10 feet, a maximum length of 8 feet, and a maximum width of 24 inches. B. Rear yard and interior side yard. 1. Except as provided in subparagraphs a and b below, a wall or fence not exceeding 6 feet in height may be placed along the rear or interior side property lines or within the rear or interior side yard setback area. a. A wall or fence not exceeding 8 feet in height may be placed along a rear or interior side property line that abuts a school, park, alley, or other nonresidential use. b. A development abutting a freeway or railroad may construct a solid wall up to 12 feet in height for purposes of sound attenuation. The wall shall comply with the development standards for sound walls in article III. 2. A decorative gateway feature is permitted as long as the feature has a maximum height of 10 feet, a maximum length of 8 feet, and a maximum width of 24 inches. 3. Fences exceeding 6 feet in height are allowed outside the required rear-yard and interior side-yard setback areas. C. Multi-unit dwelling-Wall requirement. 1. A multi-unit dwelling located on a single parcel shall provide a minimum of 6-foot high solid wall of masonry, brick, or similar material along all property lines that border the on-site parking lot and which abut a single-unit dwelling, duplex dwelling, or a lot within any of the zoning districts in chapter 17.204. 2. The 6-foot wall shall not extend into any required front-yard or street side-yard setback of the multi-unit dwelling development or adjacent residential development. 3. The height of the wall in the front-yard or street side-yard setback area shall comply with subsection A of this section. D. Concertina wire; barbed wire. 1. Concertina wire, serpentine wire, barbed wire, razor wire, and other similar fencing materials capable of inflicting significant physical injury is prohibited, unless required by court order or allowed pursuant to subsection D.2. 2. A site plan and design review deviation under article I of chapter 17.808 to allow use of these fencing materials may be approved if the decision maker finds that use of these fencing materials is reasonably necessary to protect persons or property and will not constitute a safety hazard to members of the public conducting themselves in a lawful manner. 3. These fencing materials shall not protrude into or over the public right-of-way. (Ord. 2019-0006 § 14; Ord. 2013-0020 § 1; Ord. 2013-0007 § 1)

A building permit shall be required for a wall over 6 feet in height.

The maximum overall height of a detached accessory structure is 18 feet to the highest point on the roof.

The maximum wall height of a detached accessory structure is 10 feet.

The maximum height for an uncovered deck is five feet.

An arbor may not exceed 10 feet in height, 6 feet in width, and 24 inches in depth.

17.624.060 Other accessory structures. The following chart identifies the footnote in this section that sets forth the regulations for each type of other accessory structure or use. Identify the proposed type of accessory structure or use in the first column and read across the chart to find the regulations for that type of accessory structure or use. For example, the minimum setback requirements for an uncovered parking pad are set forth in footnote 1 of this section. "N/A" means not applicable. | Type of Accessory Structure or Use | Minimum Setbacks | Max. Lot Coverage | Max. Lot Coverage of Required Rear Yard | Minimum Distance from Main Building | Maximum Distance from Main Building | Driveway | Other Standards | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Uncovered parking pad | 1 | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | 2 | 3 | | Uncovered patio | 1 | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | 1 | | Swimming pool, spa, hot tub (in or above ground) | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | N/A | 4 | | Arbor | 5 | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | 5 | | Trellis | 6 | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | 6 | | Children's swing set, play structures | 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | N/A | 7 | | Mechanical equipment | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 | N/A | 8 | Footnotes: 1. Maximum paving permitted in required setback areas. See section 17.612.010. 2. Minimum dimensions. Minimum interior dimensions for the parking pad are 10 feet wide by 20 feet deep. This width may be reduced to 8 feet if the existing interior side-yard setback between the existing residence and the property line is 8 feet. Access to the parking pad must be paved. Driveways shall conform to the requirements of chapter 17.508. The driveway is permitted to have a landscape strip down the center. The landscape strip is not permitted in the vehicle parking pad. 3. Maximum paving. See section 17.612.010. 4. The following requirements apply to a swimming pool, spa, or hot tub: a. A swimming pool, spa, or hot tub is not permitted in the required front setback. b. When located nearer than 60 feet from the front property line, a swimming pool, spa, or hot tub is subject to the same minimum front-yard, interior side-yard, and street side-yard setbacks required for the main residential structure. c. When located more than 60 feet from the front property line, a swimming pool, spa, or hot tub is subject to a 3 foot interior side-yard and rear-yard setback, and a minimum 5 foot street side-yard setback. d. A swimming pool, spa, or hot tub is not counted in lot coverage computation. If equipment is placed on an accessory structure (such as a deck), the structure must comply with the regulations of this chapter. e. The minimum distance between a swimming pool, spa, or hot tub; the main residential structure; and any accessory structures must meet building code requirements. f. If the swimming pool, spa, or hot tub is enclosed, covered, or on a raised deck, the applicable accessory structure requirements apply. g. Mechanical equipment associated with a swimming pool, spa, or hot tub shall meet the requirements of footnote 7. h. Setback from levee. Notwithstanding the provisions of paragraph c above, a swimming pool, spa, or hot tub may not project into the required setback from the landside toe of a levee. 5. Arbors. a. An arbor may not exceed 10 feet in height, 6 feet in width, and 24 inches in depth. b. An arbor may be placed anywhere on the lot. c. A maximum of two arbors are allowed on the property line or over a path leading to the primary building or structure, within the front-yard. d. Except as provided in footnote 5.c above, there is no limit to the number of arbors allowed on a parcel. 6. Trellises. a. A trellis may not exceed 10 feet in height and 24 inches in width. b. If a trellis is used as a fence, or as an integral part of a fence, it must meet the requirements of chapter 17.620, including maximum height. c. A trellis may be placed anywhere on the lot. 7. Play structures. Portable or movable play structures that do not require a building permit are exempt from accessory structure regulations. Play structures that require a building permit shall follow the attached or detached accessory structure regulations found in this chapter. 8. Mechanical equipment. Mechanical equipment, including heaters and air conditioners, shall not be located within the required front yard, interior side yard, or street side yard unless the equipment is screened or landscaped and complies with all noise standards and ordinances. Mechanical equipment is not counted in lot coverage computations. (Ord. 2024-0051 § 29; Ord. 2019-0006 § 17; Ord. 2013-0020 § 1; Ord. 2013-0007 § 1)

17.624.050 Detached accessory structures. The chart below identifies the footnote in this section that sets forth the regulations for each type of detached accessory structure. Identify the proposed type of accessory structure in the first column and read across the chart to find the regulations for that type of accessory structure. For example, the minimum setback requirements for a detached garage are set forth in footnote 1 in this section. "N/A" means not applicable. | Type of Detached Accessory Structure | Minimum Setbacks | Maximum Lot Coverage | Max. Lot Coverage of Required Rear Yard | Minimum Distance from Main Building | Maximum Height | Driveway | Other Standards | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Garage | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | | Carport | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | | Covered patio or covered unenclosed structure | 1 | 2 | 3 | 8 | 5 | N/A | N/A | | Uncovered deck | 9 | 10 | 3 | 11 | 12 | N/A | 13 | | Covered deck | 1 | 2 | 3 | 8 | 5 | N/A | 13 | | Enclosed structure | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7, 14 | Footnotes: 1. Minimum setbacks for detached accessory structure. a. A detached accessory structure is not permitted in the required front or street side setback. b. When located nearer than 60 feet to the front property line, a detached accessory structure is subject to the same minimum front-yard and side-yard setbacks required for the main building. c. When located more than 60 feet from the front property line, the detached accessory structure may be located in the rear-yard or interior side-yard setback area, provided that the detached accessory structure shall not project into the required setback from the landside toe of a levee. 2. Maximum lot coverage. Except as provided in footnote 3 below, a detached accessory structure is subject to the maximum lot coverage standards of the zone in which the structure is located. 3. Maximum lot coverage of required rear-yard. a. Except as provided in subparagraph b below, no more than 33% of the surface area of the required rear-yard setback may be covered by detached accessory structures. b. In the R-1 and R-2 zones, not more than 33% or 350 square feet, whichever is greater, of the surface area of the required rear-yard setback may be covered by detached accessory structures. c. Swimming pools, spas, and hot tubs, including equipment placed at ground level, or on a concrete pad at ground level; detached uncovered patios; and detached uncovered decks less than 30 inches in height, measured from ground to top of deck, are not counted in the lot coverage computation. 4. Minimum distance from main building. The minimum distance between a detached accessory structure and the main building is 4 feet. 5. Maximum height of a detached accessory structure. a. The maximum overall height of a detached accessory structure is 18 feet to the highest point on the roof. Dormers are permitted as a decorative feature or to admit daylight to the structure, if they meet the following criteria: i. No part of the dormer shall be located on the same plane as the wall below; and ii. The combined width of all dormers on a single roof plane shall not exceed one-fourth of the width of the roof plane where the dormers are located. b. The maximum wall height of a detached accessory structure is 10 feet. The wall height is the vertical dimension measured from the average elevation of the finished lot grade at the front of the building to the plate line, where the roof meets the wall. c. Any variation or waiver of the criteria in this footnote 5 may be approved through director-level site plan and design review under chapter 17.808. 6. Driveways and maneuvering requirements for single-unit and duplex dwellings. Driveways for single-unit and duplex dwellings shall conform to the requirements of chapter 17.508. The driveway is permitted to have a landscape strip down the center. The landscape strip is not permitted in the vehicle parking pad. 7. Minimum dimensions of detached garages and carports. a. Single-unit or duplex dwellings. The minimum interior dimensions of a detached garage or attached carport are 10 feet wide and 20 feet deep. The width may be reduced to 8 feet if the existing interior side-yard setback between the existing residence and the property line is 8 feet. b. Multi-unit dwellings. The minimum interior dimensions of a detached garage are eight feet wide by 18 feet deep. The minimum dimensions of a detached carport are 10 feet wide and 20 feet deep. The width may be reduced to 8 feet if the existing interior side-yard setback between the existing residence and the property line is 8 feet. 8. Minimum distance from the main building for detached covered patios, covered decks, and other covered, unen-closed structures. No minimum distance is required between detached covered patios, covered decks, and other covered, unenclosed structures and the main building. 9. Minimum setbacks for detached uncovered decks. a. No minimum setbacks are required for detached uncovered decks less than 30 inches in height, measured from the ground to the top of the deck. b. The following minimum setbacks are required for detached uncovered decks of 30 or more inches in height, measured from the ground to the top of the deck: i. The deck is not permitted in the required front-yard setback; ii. When located nearer than 60 feet to the front property line, the deck is subject to the same minimum front-yard and side-yard setbacks required for the main building; and iii. When located more than 60 feet from the front property line, the deck shall maintain a minimum five-foot interior side-yard, street side-yard, and rear-yard setback. 10. Maximum lot coverage for detached uncovered decks. a. A detached uncovered deck less than 30 inches in height, measured from the ground to the top of the deck, is not subject to the maximum lot coverage standard. b. A detached uncovered deck of 30 or more inches in height, measured from the ground to the top of the deck, is subject to the maximum lot coverage standard of the zone in which the deck is located. 11. Minimum distance from main building for uncovered decks. a. No minimum distance is required between an uncovered deck under 30 inches in height, measured from the ground to the top of the deck, and the main building. b. The distance between an uncovered deck of 30 or more inches in height, measured from the ground to the top of the deck, and the main building shall be either 6 inches or less or 4 feet or more. 12. The maximum height for an uncovered deck is five feet. 13. Other standards for detached covered and uncovered decks. a. Railings, benches, planters, and the like, with a maximum of 3 feet in height, may be constructed and attached to the deck and are not counted as part of the deck height. b. Trellises, walls, and similar structures attached to the deck are counted as part of the deck height. 14. Examples of detached enclosed accessory structures include: storage sheds, workshops, recreation rooms, and non-commercial greenhouses. (Ord. 2025-0007 § 35; Ord. 2024-0051 § 28; Ord. 2021-0024 § 35; Ord. 2019-0006 § 16; Ord. 2017-0061 § 85; Ord. 2013-0020 § 1; Ord. 2013-0007 § 1)

17.624.050 Detached accessory structures. The chart below identifies the footnote in this section that sets forth the regulations for each type of detached accessory structure. Identify the proposed type of accessory structure in the first column and read across the chart to find the regulations for that type of accessory structure. For example, the minimum setback requirements for a detached garage are set forth in footnote 1 in this section. "N/A" means not applicable. | Type of Detached Accessory Structure | Minimum Setbacks | Maximum Lot Coverage | Max. Lot Coverage of Required Rear Yard | Minimum Distance from Main Building | Maximum Height | Driveway | Other Standards | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Garage | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | | Carport | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | | Covered patio or covered unenclosed structure | 1 | 2 | 3 | 8 | 5 | N/A | N/A | | Uncovered deck | 9 | 10 | 3 | 11 | 12 | N/A | 13 | | Covered deck | 1 | 2 | 3 | 8 | 5 | N/A | 13 | | Enclosed structure | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7, 14 | Footnotes: 1. Minimum setbacks for detached accessory structure. a. A detached accessory structure is not permitted in the required front or street side setback. b. When located nearer than 60 feet to the front property line, a detached accessory structure is subject to the same minimum front-yard and side-yard setbacks required for the main building. c. When located more than 60 feet from the front property line, the detached accessory structure may be located in the rear-yard or interior side-yard setback area, provided that the detached accessory structure shall not project into the required setback from the landside toe of a levee. 2. Maximum lot coverage. Except as provided in footnote 3 below, a detached accessory structure is subject to the maximum lot coverage standards of the zone in which the structure is located. 3. Maximum lot coverage of required rear-yard. a. Except as provided in subparagraph b below, no more than 33% of the surface area of the required rear-yard setback may be covered by detached accessory structures. b. In the R-1 and R-2 zones, not more than 33% or 350 square feet, whichever is greater, of the surface area of the required rear-yard setback may be covered by detached accessory structures. c. Swimming pools, spas, and hot tubs, including equipment placed at ground level, or on a concrete pad at ground level; detached uncovered patios; and detached uncovered decks less than 30 inches in height, measured from ground to top of deck, are not counted in the lot coverage computation. 4. Minimum distance from main building. The minimum distance between a detached accessory structure and the main building is 4 feet. 5. Maximum height of a detached accessory structure. a. The maximum overall height of a detached accessory structure is 18 feet to the highest point on the roof. Dormers are permitted as a decorative feature or to admit daylight to the structure, if they meet the following criteria: i. No part of the dormer shall be located on the same plane as the wall below; and ii. The combined width of all dormers on a single roof plane shall not exceed one-fourth of the width of the roof plane where the dormers are located. b. The maximum wall height of a detached accessory structure is 10 feet. The wall height is the vertical dimension measured from the average elevation of the finished lot grade at the front of the building to the plate line, where the roof meets the wall. c. Any variation or waiver of the criteria in this footnote 5 may be approved through director-level site plan and design review under chapter 17.808. 6. Driveways and maneuvering requirements for single-unit and duplex dwellings. Driveways for single-unit and duplex dwellings shall conform to the requirements of chapter 17.508. The driveway is permitted to have a landscape strip down the center. The landscape strip is not permitted in the vehicle parking pad. 7. Minimum dimensions of detached garages and carports. a. Single-unit or duplex dwellings. The minimum interior dimensions of a detached garage or attached carport are 10 feet wide and 20 feet deep. The width may be reduced to 8 feet if the existing interior side-yard setback between the existing residence and the property line is 8 feet. b. Multi-unit dwellings. The minimum interior dimensions of a detached garage are eight feet wide by 18 feet deep. The minimum dimensions of a detached carport are 10 feet wide and 20 feet deep. The width may be reduced to 8 feet if the existing interior side-yard setback between the existing residence and the property line is 8 feet. 8. Minimum distance from the main building for detached covered patios, covered decks, and other covered, unen-closed structures. No minimum distance is required between detached covered patios, covered decks, and other covered, unenclosed structures and the main building. 9. Minimum setbacks for detached uncovered decks. a. No minimum setbacks are required for detached uncovered decks less than 30 inches in height, measured from the ground to the top of the deck. b. The following minimum setbacks are required for detached uncovered decks of 30 or more inches in height, measured from the ground to the top of the deck: i. The deck is not permitted in the required front-yard setback; ii. When located nearer than 60 feet to the front property line, the deck is subject to the same minimum front-yard and side-yard setbacks required for the main building; and iii. When located more than 60 feet from the front property line, the deck shall maintain a minimum five-foot interior side-yard, street side-yard, and rear-yard setback. 10. Maximum lot coverage for detached uncovered decks. a. A detached uncovered deck less than 30 inches in height, measured from the ground to the top of the deck, is not subject to the maximum lot coverage standard. b. A detached uncovered deck of 30 or more inches in height, measured from the ground to the top of the deck, is subject to the maximum lot coverage standard of the zone in which the deck is located. 11. Minimum distance from main building for uncovered decks. a. No minimum distance is required between an uncovered deck under 30 inches in height, measured from the ground to the top of the deck, and the main building. b. The distance between an uncovered deck of 30 or more inches in height, measured from the ground to the top of the deck, and the main building shall be either 6 inches or less or 4 feet or more. 12. The maximum height for an uncovered deck is five feet. 13. Other standards for detached covered and uncovered decks. a. Railings, benches, planters, and the like, with a maximum of 3 feet in height, may be constructed and attached to the deck and are not counted as part of the deck height. b. Trellises, walls, and similar structures attached to the deck are counted as part of the deck height. 14. Examples of detached enclosed accessory structures include: storage sheds, workshops, recreation rooms, and non-commercial greenhouses. (Ord. 2025-0007 § 35; Ord. 2024-0051 § 28; Ord. 2021-0024 § 35; Ord. 2019-0006 § 16; Ord. 2017-0061 § 85; Ord. 2013-0020 § 1; Ord. 2013-0007 § 1)

17.624.040 Attached accessory structures. The chart below identifies the footnote of this section that sets forth the regulations for each type of attached accessory structure. Identify the proposed type of accessory structure in the first column and read across the chart to find the regulations for that type of accessory structure. For example, the minimum setback requirements for an attached garage are set forth in footnote 1 of this section. "N/A" means not applicable. | Type of Attached Accessory Structure | Minimum Setbacks | Maximum Lot Coverage | Maximum Lot Coverage of Required Rear-Yard | Maximum Height | Driveway | Other Standards | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Garage | 1 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 3 | 4 | | Carport | 1 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 3 | 4 | | Covered patio or deck | 1 | 1 | 5 | 1 | N/A | 6 | | Uncovered deck | 1 | 1 | 5 | 1 | N/A | N/A | Footnotes: 1. Height, setbacks, and lot coverage. The height, setback, and lot coverage standards of the zone in which the attached accessory structure is located apply to the structure. 2. Maximum lot coverage of required rear yard for attached garages and carports. a. Single-unit and duplex dwellings on reversed corner lot. Attached garages and carports may project into the required rear-yard area of a reversed corner lot, provided that the structure does not extend beyond the front setback line of the lots to the rear, nor nearer than five feet to the side of the key lot to the rear. b. Single-unit and duplex on corner lot. Attached garages and carports may project into the required rear-yard area, provided that the structure does not extend nearer than five feet to the rear lot line and does not project into the required setback from the landside toe of a levee. c. Multi-unit dwellings. Attached garages and carports may not project into the required rear-yard setback of the zone in which the accessory structure is located. 3. Driveways for single-unit and duplex dwellings. Driveways shall conform to the requirements of chapter 17.508. The driveway is permitted to have a landscape strip down the center. The landscape strip is not permitted in the vehicle parking pad. 4. Minimum dimensions of attached garages and carports. a. Single-unit and duplex dwellings. The minimum interior dimensions for an attached garage or attached carport are 10 feet wide and 20 feet deep. The width may be reduced to 8 feet if the existing interior side-yard setback between the existing residence and the property line is 8 feet. b. Multi-unit dwellings. Minimum interior dimensions of an attached garage are 8 feet wide by 18 feet deep. Minimum dimensions of an attached carport are 10 feet wide and 20 feet deep. The width may be reduced to 8 feet if the existing interior side-yard setback between the existing residence and the property line is 8 feet. 5. Maximum lot coverage of required rear-yard for attached covered patios and covered and uncovered decks. a. Single-unit and duplex dwellings on reversed corner lot. Attached covered patios and covered and uncovered decks may project into the required rear-yard setback area, provided that the structure does not extend beyond the front setback line of the lots to the rear, or nearer than five feet to the side of a key lot to the rear. b. Single-unit or duplex dwellings on corner lot. Attached covered patios and covered and uncovered decks may project into the required rear-yard area, provided the structure does not extend nearer than five feet to the rear lot line. c. Single-unit or duplex dwellings on interior lot. Attached covered patios and covered and uncovered decks may project a maximum of 33% into the required rear-yard area, provided the structure does not extend nearer than five feet to the rear lot line. d. Multi-unit dwellings. Attached covered patios and covered and uncovered decks may not project into the required rear-yard setback of the zone in which the accessory structure is located. e. Setback from levee. Notwithstanding the provisions of paragraphs a through d above, attached covered patios and covered and uncovered decks shall not project into the required setback from the landside toe of a levee. 6. Other standards for attached covered patios and covered decks. a. Attached covered patios and covered decks may be partially enclosed. The area of the longer wall and one additional wall must be 65% open. The openings may be enclosed with insect screening or removable translucent or transparent material. b. Attached covered patios and covered decks shall be used only for recreational outdoor living purposes and not as carports, garages, storage rooms, or habitable rooms. They may be attached to a detached accessory structure and act as a breezeway or covered walkway between an accessory structure and the main residential structure. (Ord. 2025-0007 § 34; Ord. 2024-0017 § 63; Ord. 2019-0006 § 15; Ord. 2017-0061 § 84; Ord. 2013-0020 § 1; Ord. 2013-0007 § 1)

A detached uncovered deck less than 30 inches in height, measured from the ground to the top of the deck, is not subject to the maximum lot coverage standard.

When located more than 60 feet from the front property line, the deck shall maintain a minimum five-foot interior side-yard, street side-yard, and rear-yard setback.

The minimum distance between a detached accessory structure and the main building is 4 feet.

No minimum distance is required between detached covered patios, covered decks, and other covered, unenclosed structures and the main building.

No minimum distance is required between an uncovered deck under 30 inches in height, measured from the ground to the top of the deck, and the main building.

The distance between an uncovered deck of 30 or more inches in height, measured from the ground to the top of the deck, and the main building shall be either 6 inches or less or 4 feet or more.

17.228.230 Requirements applicable to all home occupations. A. Requirements. In addition to the special conditions and other provisions in sections 17.228.210 and 17.228.220, all home occupations shall satisfy all of the following requirements: 1. All of the requirements stated in this section 17.228.230 shall apply to each permitted residence without regard to the number of home occupation permits issued for the residence. 2. The use of the dwelling for the home occupation shall be clearly incidental and subordinate to its use for residential purposes. The home occupation may be conducted in the principal dwelling or accessory structures on the subject property. 3. No more than one person who is not a resident of the permitted residence may engage in home occupations at that residence. The home occupation may have more than one off-site employee or partner if that person does not work at the permitted residence. 4. Unless prohibited by a special condition under section 17.228.210, or by a condition of approval of a home occupation conditional use permit under section 17.228.220, clients or customers are permitted to visit the permitted residence; provided, that on any single day there shall be no more than one client or customer per hour and no more than eight customers or clients visiting the residence in a day. A family unit, such as a parent and one or more children, is considered one client or customer for purposes of this restriction. 5. The permitted residence shall comply with all building code standards made applicable to the residence because of the operation of the home occupation. 6. Only one vehicle of a size no larger than one ton shall be permitted in conjunction with a home occupation. 7. There shall be no sign, nameplate, or any other form of advertising displayed at the permitted residence. B. Waiver of requirements. The zoning administrator shall have the authority to issue a home occupation conditional use permit under section 17.228.220 to waive the requirements set forth in subsection A of this section. (Ord. 2024-0017 § 78; Ord. 2013-0020 § 1; Ord. 2013-0007 § 1)

17.228.230 Requirements applicable to all home occupations. A. Requirements. In addition to the special conditions and other provisions in sections 17.228.210 and 17.228.220, all home occupations shall satisfy all of the following requirements: 1. All of the requirements stated in this section 17.228.230 shall apply to each permitted residence without regard to the number of home occupation permits issued for the residence. 2. The use of the dwelling for the home occupation shall be clearly incidental and subordinate to its use for residential purposes. The home occupation may be conducted in the principal dwelling or accessory structures on the subject property. 3. No more than one person who is not a resident of the permitted residence may engage in home occupations at that residence. The home occupation may have more than one off-site employee or partner if that person does not work at the permitted residence. 4. Unless prohibited by a special condition under section 17.228.210, or by a condition of approval of a home occupation conditional use permit under section 17.228.220, clients or customers are permitted to visit the permitted residence; provided, that on any single day there shall be no more than one client or customer per hour and no more than eight customers or clients visiting the residence in a day. A family unit, such as a parent and one or more children, is considered one client or customer for purposes of this restriction. 5. The permitted residence shall comply with all building code standards made applicable to the residence because of the operation of the home occupation. 6. Only one vehicle of a size no larger than one ton shall be permitted in conjunction with a home occupation. 7. There shall be no sign, nameplate, or any other form of advertising displayed at the permitted residence. B. Waiver of requirements. The zoning administrator shall have the authority to issue a home occupation conditional use permit under section 17.228.220 to waive the requirements set forth in subsection A of this section. (Ord. 2024-0017 § 78; Ord. 2013-0020 § 1; Ord. 2013-0007 § 1)

The following occupations are permitted with an administrative permit.

17.228.220 Home occupations requiring conditional use permit. Except for the prohibited home occupations listed in section 17.228.240, the following home occupations are permitted with a zoning administrator conditional use permit: A. A home occupation not listed in section 17.228.210; B. A home occupation listed in section 17.228.210 that does not comply with one or more of the applicable special conditions there listed; and C. A home occupation that does not comply with the requirements stated in section 17.228.230. (Ord. 2013-0020 § 1; Ord. 2013-0007 § 1)

17.228.240 Prohibited home occupations. An administrative permit or conditional use permit shall not be issued for any of the following home occupations: A. A home occupation for an auto service, repair shop. Vehicle glass installation and detailing only are permitted subject to the special conditions listed in subsection D of section 17.228.210. B. A home occupation for any adult business or adult-related establishment that is subject to the permit requirements of chapter 5.04 of this code. C. A home occupation that involves a nuisance-producing activity. D. A home occupation for a towing service or vehicle storage yard. E. A home occupation that creates noise, odor, dust, vibration, fumes, or smoke readily discernible at the exterior boundaries of the parcel on which the home occupation is situated. F. A home occupation that will create any electrical disturbance adversely affecting the operation of any equipment located in any other dwelling unit or on property not owned by the person conducting the home occupation. G. A home occupation that involves cannabis products, including industrial hemp as defined in section 8.134.020. (Ord. 2024-0017 § 48; Ord. 2013-0020 § 1; Ord. 2013-0007 § 1)

A home occupation for any adult business or adult-related establishment that is subject to the permit requirements of chapter 5.04 of this code.

A home occupation that involves a nuisance-producing activity.

A home occupation for a towing service or vehicle storage yard.

A home occupation that creates noise, odor, dust, vibration, fumes, or smoke readily discernible at the exterior boundaries of the parcel on which the home occupation is situated.

A home occupation that will create any electrical disturbance adversely affecting the operation of any equipment located in any other dwelling unit or on property not owned by the person conducting the home occupation.

A home occupation that involves cannabis products, including industrial hemp as defined in section 8.134.020.

unless the vessel or boat is currently registered to an occupant of the premises and is placed on a trailer currently registered to an occupant of the premises and parked on a paved surface.

If the building official determines that the application for an expedited building permit is complete and meets the requirements of the checklist, the building official shall issue the expedited building permit.

If the building official determines that the application is complete and meets the requirements of the checklist, the building official shall issue the expedited building permit.

Fences shall be constructed so as not to provide openings or projections or other facilities that would make such fence conducive to climbing by a child.

If vertical members are supported by top and bottom rails connected to posts, the space between such vertical members shall not exceed five inches.

Such fence shall be a minimum of five feet in height, except that existing fences, installed under previous codes that are a minimum of four feet six inches in height may remain.

Such fence shall be a minimum of five feet in height, except that existing fences, installed under previous codes that are a minimum of four feet six inches in height may remain.

Such gate shall be equipped with a self-latching device which is not accessible from the outside of the fence and which will keep the gate closed and latched at all times.

Every person in possession of land upon which is situated a swimming pool who fails to either securely cover the pool when it is not in use or to adequately fence the area adjacent so that the pool is made inaccessible to children is guilty of an infraction.

Permittee shall be responsible for all relocation of existing water, sewer, electric or gas lines necessitated by installation of a pool. All such work shall be included in the application for a permit to install the pool.

When required by the director, plans and design calculations for a pool, prepared by a licensed civil engineer, shall be submitted at the time an application for a permit is filed.

No swimming pool or similar pool shall be located within a distance less than or equal to the depth of the deepest excavation for such pool from any property line, building or structure (one to one slope).